Category: life | how-to-write-a-check
By Anthony Fletcher

How to Write a Check for 20 Dollars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a check might seem old-fashioned in today's digital age, but it's still a useful skill. Whether you’re paying a friend back or mailing a payment, knowing how to write a check for 20 dollars can be handy. In this article, we’ll break down the process and answer common questions to ensure you feel confident the next time you write a check.

Steps to Write a Check for 20 Dollars

Writing a check involves a few straightforward steps:

Date: Write the current date in the top right corner.

Payer's Information: Write your name and address in the top left corner, if necessary.

Payee: Write the name of the person or organization you’re paying on the line that reads “Pay to the Order of.”

Amount in Numbers: Write “20.00” in the small box to the right of the payee line.

Amount in Words: Write “Twenty and 00/100” on the line underneath the payee name.

Signature: Sign the check on the bottom right line. Your signature must match the one on file with your bank.

Memo: Optionally, you can add a note in the memo section on the bottom left for your reference.

Why Is It Important to Write the Amount Correctly?

Writing down the correct amount in both numbers and words is essential to avoid confusion. If there’s a discrepancy, the bank will usually defer to the written words as the correct amount.

External Information - Financial Guidelines

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, checks can only be processed correctly when amounts are clear and accurately represented.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Check

When writing a check for any amount, including $20, there are common mistakes that can lead to issues:

Not signing the check.

Writing the amount incorrectly.

Forgetting to include a memo when necessary.

Using an outdated check.

What if I Make a Mistake on the Check?

If you make a mistake, do not try to erase it. Instead, simply write "void" across the check and start a new one. This practice ensures there’s no confusion or potential fraud.

External Information - Best Practices

According to financial experts at Investopedia, starting over and marking checks as void is the safest way to handle errors.

Additional Tips for Writing Checks

Here are some practical tips to ensure you handle checks like a pro:

Keep a record of all checks written in a check register.

Make sure your account has sufficient funds to cover the amount.

Use blue or black ink to ensure professionalism and readability.

Can I Use a Check to Pay for Online Purchases?

Generally, checks are not accepted for online purchases directly. However, some services allow you to use a check as a funding method by converting it to an electronic payment.

External Information - Electronic Payments

As noted by the National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA), many modern payment methods have evolved, making electronic payments more common.