Example of a Completed Check

Oct 13, 2025 by pynkocean.com 45 views

Understanding the Check

A check is a written order to pay a specific amount of money from one person's bank account to another person's bank account. It is a common method of payment, especially for businesses and individuals who do not accept credit or debit cards. In this article, we will explain how to fill out a check for $20.00 to Papa John's Pizza.

The Anatomy of a Check

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let's take a look at the different parts of a check:

Date: The date the check is written
Payee: The person or business the check is being written to
Dollar Amount: The amount of money being paid
Memo: A brief description of the payment
Signature: The writer's signature
Routing Number: The bank's routing number
Account Number: The writer's account number

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out a Check

Step 1: Date

The first step in filling out a check is to write the date in the top right-hand corner of the check. The date should be written in the format of month/day/year (MM/DD/YYYY).

Step 2: Payee

The next step is to write the payee's name in the "Pay to the order of" line. In this case, the payee is Papa John's Pizza. Make sure to spell the name correctly and write it in full.

Step 3: Dollar Amount

The dollar amount is written in the box on the right-hand side of the check. In this case, the amount is $20.00. Make sure to write the amount in both numbers and words.

Step 4: Memo

The memo is a brief description of the payment. In this case, the memo can be "Pizza Order" or "Payment for Pizza".

Step 5: Signature

The signature is the writer's signature. It should be written in the bottom right-hand corner of the check. Make sure to sign the check in the presence of the payee.

Step 6: Routing Number and Account Number

The routing number and account number are located at the bottom left-hand corner of the check. The routing number is the bank's routing number, and the account number is the writer's account number.

Example of a Completed Check

Here is an example of a completed check for $20.00 to Papa John's Pizza:

Date	Payee	Dollar Amount	Memo	Signature	Routing Number	Account Number
02/20/2023	Papa John's Pizza	$20.00	Pizza Order	John Doe	123456789	987654321

Tips and Reminders

Make sure to sign the check in the presence of the payee.
Do not erase or alter any part of the check.
Do not use a check that has been previously used or altered.
Make sure to keep a record of the check, including the date, payee, and amount.

Conclusion

Q: What is the purpose of the date on a check?

A: The date on a check is the date the check is written. It is usually written in the top right-hand corner of the check and is used to determine the order in which checks are processed.

Q: What is the difference between a check and a bank draft?

A: A check is a written order to pay a specific amount of money from one person's bank account to another person's bank account. A bank draft, on the other hand, is a written order to pay a specific amount of money from one bank account to another bank account. Bank drafts are often used for international transactions.

Q: Can I use a check to pay for online purchases?

A: Yes, you can use a check to pay for online purchases. However, you will need to provide the merchant with your check information, including the check number, routing number, and account number.

Q: What happens if I write a check for more than I have in my account?

A: If you write a check for more than you have in your account, the check will be returned to you by the bank, marked as "insufficient funds." You will be charged a fee for the returned check, and you will need to deposit more money into your account to cover the amount of the check.

Q: Can I use a check to pay for a credit card bill?

A: No, you cannot use a check to pay for a credit card bill. Credit card companies do not accept checks as payment.

Q: What is the purpose of the memo on a check?

A: The memo on a check is a brief description of the payment. It is usually written in the bottom left-hand corner of the check and is used to identify the purpose of the payment.

Q: Can I use a check to pay for a utility bill?

A: Yes, you can use a check to pay for a utility bill. However, you will need to provide the utility company with your check information, including the check number, routing number, and account number.

Q: What happens if I lose a check?

A: If you lose a check, you should contact your bank immediately to report the loss. The bank will be able to stop payment on the check and prevent it from being cashed.

Q: Can I use a check to pay for a loan?

A: No, you cannot use a check to pay for a loan. Loans are typically paid through a series of payments, and checks are not accepted as payment.

Q: What is the purpose of the signature on a check?

A: The signature on a check is the writer's signature. It is usually written in the bottom right-hand corner of the check and is used to verify the writer's identity.

Q: Can I use a check to pay for a gift?

A: Yes, you can use a check to pay for a gift. However, you will need to provide the recipient with your check information, including the check number, routing number, and account number.

Conclusion

Writing a check can seem like a complex process, but it is actually quite simple. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that your check is completed correctly and efficiently. If you have any questions or concerns about writing a check, be sure to consult with your bank or a financial advisor.