Writing a check at Chase is the same process whether you bank there or anywhere else

A check is a written instruction to your bank to move money from your account to whoever you give it to. You fill in the date, the recipient's name, the dollar amount in two places, and your signature. Chase doesn't change any of these steps — the bank simply processes what you've written once the person you gave it to deposits or cashes it.

If you have a Chase checking account, your checks come pre-printed with your name, address, account number, and routing number. You only need to fill in the blanks for each individual check you write.

Key Takeaways

  • Write the date in the top right corner, the recipient's name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, and the amount in both numbers and words.
  • Your signature on the bottom right is required — a check without it will not be processed.
  • The routing number and account number printed on your checks tell the receiving bank where to pull the money from.
  • If you make a mistake, void that check and write a new one rather than crossing out or using correction fluid.
  • Chase allows you to order replacement checks through your online banking portal or by calling customer service.

Where to write each piece of information on a check

The top right corner holds the date. Write it in the format your bank expects — typically month/day/year or the full month name followed by the day and year. This date tells the recipient and the bank when you wrote the check.

The line that says "Pay to the Order of" is where you write the recipient's name. Be as specific as the person or business requires — if they say "John Smith," write that; if they say "Smith Plumbing LLC," write that instead. The name must match what the recipient expects to see.

Write the dollar amount twice: once in the box on the right side in numbers (for example, $150.00), and once on the long line below "Pay to the Order of" in words (for example, "One Hundred Fifty Dollars"). If these two amounts don't match, the bank may reject the check or process it for the amount written in words.

Sign your name on the line at the bottom right. Your signature must match the signature the bank has on file for your account. A check without a signature will not be processed.

The numbers printed on your check and what they mean

The nine-digit number at the bottom left is your routing number. This tells any bank which Chase branch or processing center to send the check to. All Chase checking accounts use Chase's routing numbers, which vary slightly by region but are all Chase numbers.

The account number printed next to the routing number is your specific checking account at Chase. This is how the bank knows which account to pull the money from when the check is deposited.

The check number appears twice — once in the top right corner and once at the bottom left. This number helps you track which check is which in your records. Chase numbers your checks sequentially, so the first check in a new box might be 1001, the next 1002, and so on.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing a check

Do not use pencil or erasable pen. Use a ballpoint pen or permanent marker so the check cannot be altered after you write it. Banks and recipients may refuse a check written in pencil.

Do not cross out mistakes or use correction fluid. If you make an error, write "VOID" across the front of the check in large letters and set it aside. Then write a new check with the correct information. A voided check cannot be cashed or deposited.

Do not post-date a check (write a date in the future). While some people do this hoping to delay payment, banks may process the check immediately anyway. If you need to delay payment, wait to give the check to the recipient until closer to the date you want them to cash it.

Do not write a check for more money than you have in your account. Chase will return the check unpaid and charge you a non-sufficient funds fee. The recipient may also charge you a fee for the returned check.

Ordering new checks from Chase

If you run out of checks or need to replace damaged ones, you can order them through Chase Online Banking. Log in to your account, go to the "Transfers" or "Services" section (the exact menu name varies by device), and look for "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks." Chase will show you the current check design and ask how many boxes you want.

You can also call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card to order checks by phone. A representative will confirm your mailing address and process the order. Checks typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days, though expedited shipping is available for an additional fee.

Chase also offers duplicate checks (a copy is made automatically when you write one) and checks with extra security features. These options cost more but may be worth it if you need a record of every check you write or want protection against fraud.

What happens after you give someone a check

Once you hand a check to someone, they can deposit it at their own bank, cash it at a store, or mail it to a business. The recipient's bank sends the check through a clearing system that eventually reaches Chase. Chase verifies that your account has enough money, deducts the amount, and marks the check as processed.

This process usually takes 1 to 3 business days, though it can be faster or slower depending on the banks involved and whether the check is deposited in person or remotely. During this time, the money is still in your account but is being held as pending. Once the check clears, the money is gone and the recipient has it.

You can see pending checks and cleared checks in your Chase account history. If a check has not cleared after a week, contact the recipient to confirm they deposited it. If a check never clears, you can ask Chase to stop payment on it, though the bank may charge a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write a check to myself?

Yes. Write your own name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, fill in the amount, and sign it. You can then deposit this check into another account at Chase or at a different bank. This is sometimes done to move money between accounts or to get cash from a checking account.

What if I write the wrong amount in words or numbers?

If the written amount and the numerical amount don't match, the bank will process the check for the amount written in words, not the numbers. For example, if you write $100 in the box but "Fifty Dollars" on the line, the check will be for $50. Void the check and write a new one if the amounts don't match.

Do I need to tell Chase every time I write a check?

No. Checks are a standard payment method and Chase processes them automatically. You only need to contact Chase if a check is lost, stolen, or if you want to stop payment on a check you've already written.

What if someone else writes a check from my account?

Only you should write checks from your account. If someone else writes a check using your account number without permission, report it to Chase immediately. The bank can investigate and may reverse the transaction if fraud is confirmed.

Can I write a check for more than my account balance?

You can write it, but Chase will not process it. The check will be returned unpaid, and you'll be charged a non-sufficient funds fee. The recipient may also charge you a fee. Only write checks for amounts you know you have available.