Edited by Michelle TipswordHow to Read a Check
Quick Answer
Learn how to read a check, including where to find the routing and account numbers, payment amount and endorsement line so you can avoid errors and help ensure checks are deposited or cashed correctly.
Although paper checks are less common than they once were, you may still need to write or cash one from time to time. Knowing how to read a check and where to find things like routing and account numbers can help you avoid costly mistakes and reduce the risk of financial fraud. Here's how to read a check and where to find important information you may need to cash it, deposit it or set up electronic payments.
1. Look for the Name of the Bank
The name of the bank where the account is held typically appears near the lower left corner of the check, sometimes with the bank's address and/or logo. Cashing a check at the same bank where it originated may give you access to the funds faster than cashing it at a different bank.
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2. Find the Payee
The payee is the person or entity the check is written to. Their name appears on the line following the words "Pay to the Order Of." There may be problems depositing the check if the payee name does not match the name on the payee's bank account.
3. Find the Payor
The payor is the person or entity writing the check; when the check is cashed, the funds come from their checking account. The payor's name and contact information usually appear in the upper left corner of the check.
4. Look at the Date the Check Was Written
The date line on the upper right side of the check is filled in when the payor writes the check. You might postdate a check (that is, write a date in the future) if you don't want the payee to cash it until then. However, postdating doesn't prevent a bank from cashing a check if the payee deposits it earlier. If there aren't enough funds in the checking account, the check could bounce, causing problems for both the payor and the payee. Waiting to deposit a postdated check until the date in the date line can help ensure the check will clear.
Tip: Don't wait too long to cash a check. Although bank policies can vary, most banks and credit unions won't accept personal or business checks more than six months old. Government checks are generally valid for six to 12 months.
5. Find the Payment Amount Box
The payment amount box on the right side of the check shows the amount the check is written for. The payor writes the payment amount in dollars and cents, using numerals (for example, "100.00" or "65.38").
6. Find the Payment Amount Line
The payment amount line is a blank line ending in the word "dollars" that spells out the amount of the check, using words for the dollar amount and fractions for cents. For example, the payment amount line for a $320.50 check should say "Three hundred twenty dollars and 50/100."
7. Check the Signature Line
The signature line in the bottom right corner of a check is where the payor signs their name. An unsigned check cannot be processed, so make sure this line is filled out before trying to cash or deposit a check.
8. Look at the Memo Line
The memo line in the bottom left corner of a check is an optional space the payor can use to tell the payee what the check is for. For instance, you might use the memo line to write "Rent—November 2026" on a check to your landlord or to put your account number on a check to your mortgage company.
9. Find the Check Number
The check number appears in the upper right corner of the check and on the bottom at the end of the account number; there's usually a small symbol separating the two numbers. Check numbers are useful to track payments, especially if you use a checkbook register to record your outgoing checks and balance your checkbook.
10. Find the Routing Number
The routing number is a nine-digit number on the bottom left of a check. The routing number identifies the bank holding the account and is generally needed to set up direct deposit or autopayments or to make or receive a wire transfer.
11. Find the Account Number
The account number is a nine- to 12-digit number that identifies the checking account associated with the check. Account numbers appear on the bottom right of a check and may be required (along with routing numbers) to set up electronic funds transfers such as autopayments, direct deposits or wire transfers.
Be aware: Protect your routing and account numbers carefully. Someone with access to both numbers can take money from your account, commit other types of financial fraud or even steal your identity.
12. Find the Endorsement Line on the Back
The endorsement line at the top of the back of the check is where the payee signs their name to cash or deposit the check. Signatures should match the payee name on the front of the check and stay above the section marked "Do not write, stamp or sign below this line." Check with your bank's deposit instructions: Some banks have additional requirements, such as writing "for mobile deposit only at [bank name]" or writing your account number.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bottom Line
Whether you're using checks to receive or make payments, understanding how to read a check can help you avoid financial headaches such as bounced checks or missed payments. Managing your money wisely also includes keeping your credit in good shape. Experian's free credit monitoring service can help you keep an eye on your credit. You'll get access to your credit score and alerts of important changes to your credit report that could indicate fraud.
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About the author
Karen Axelton
Karen Axelton is Experian’s in-house senior personal finance writer. She has over 20 years of experience as a journalist and has written or ghostwritten content for a variety of financial services companies.
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