If you want to set up a direct deposit or open an account with a brokerage, you may need to provide a voided check. Dealing with checks is less common these days, but they still play an important role in these particular types of transactions. Read on to learn more about how to void a check and why it’s necessary. 

What is a Voided Check? 

A voided check is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a paper check that has the word “VOID” written across it. A voided check is used by banks and other financial institutions, as well as employers, to set up links between accounts for electronic deposits. 

As your check has important information, including your bank account number and routing number, your employer or financial institution may require a voided check as part of the paperwork process. However, since it’s void, it can’t be used.  This information is then used to set up things like direct deposits or bill pay. How to Void a Check

If you’re here, you’re probably wondering how to write a void check. The good news is it is super simple. Take a physical check and get a black or blue pen — you’d want to use a pen so that the text can’t be erased.  You then need to write the word “VOID” in all capital letters across the check. 

Write it large enough to cover the entire check so that it can’t be used by anyone else. However, you also need to keep the bottom of the check legible so that the numbers are accessible and easy to read. This will help make sure that if anyone gets a hold of the check, they can’t use it as a blank check.

Voiding the check effectively makes it unusable, but still shows the bank account numbers to help facilitate transactions.

How to Void a Check You've Already Sent

Let’s say you already sent a check but there are errors on the check or you may not have enough money in your account when it gets cashed. Maybe the check got into the wrong hands. If you want to learn how to void a check you’ve already sent, there are a couple of things you can do.

You’ll need to request a stop payment from your financial institution. Basically this tells the bank to stop the payment and not allow the transaction to happen. You’ll need to have your check number, the amount listed on the check, as well as the check recipient.

You’ll likely need to submit paperwork within a 14-day period of requesting the stop payment and may be hit with fees up to $30. 

How to Void a Check Digitally

If you don’t have a checkbook or want to make the process easier, see if you can get access to a voided check online through your bank. Either that or you may be able to fill out a form online — for example, your bank may have its own direct deposit form.

Alternatives to Voiding a Check

If you want to learn how to void a blank check, you can easily use a physical copy and write “VOID” on it. But if you don’t have access to physical checks and your bank doesn’t easily offer digital options, what can you do?

If you’re looking for an alternative to voiding a check, you may be able to:

• Request a deposit slip, which has your bank account information;
• See if you can submit your banking information online, by manually inputting your account and routing information from your bank;
• Ask for a starter check from your bank, which will have your bank account information and may be able to be used as a voided check;
• Get your bank account information with the official bank letterhead.

Bottom Line 

If you need to learn how to write a void check, the good news is that it's very easy. But if you don’t have a blank check, voiding a check may require additional steps. If this is the case, discuss your options with your financial institutions to see if you can submit information or paperwork online.