What is a Voided Check and How Do I Get One?

Many people don’t understand what is a voided check and why it is important. In the case of direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or the establishment of a new bank account, a voided check may be requested from you. 

However, the question remains: What does it mean and why is it required? A voided check is merely a normal check that has the word “VOID” written diagonally across it. 

Confused about voided checks? Let’s understand what they are, why they matter, and where to get a voided check.

What is a voided check?

A voided check is a simple and regular check that has the word “VOID” written across it.

It means you cannot use the check to withdraw money from your checking account. But you must be wondering why anyone would need a check that does not work for payments?

The solution lies inside the information a check carries. A voided check is required for setting up direct deposit, which contains essential information such as your bank account number and routing number.

How to get a voided check?

To get your hands on a voided check, follow these steps:

• Select a blank check: Select a blank check from your checkbook and check thoroughly that it isn’t filled out. 

• Write “VOID” across the top: Use a blue or black marker to write “VOID” in big letters across the check. Make sure it is written clearly and covers a portion of the check but make sure it does not hide the bank details.

• Do not cover the numbers: Be careful not to write over the routing number which can be found at the bottom of the check.

• Record the voided check: Ensure that the check number and date you have voided in your check is registered.

• Secure your invalid check: Keep the nullified check in a safe place.

Tips for voiding a check: 

• Ensure VOID is clearly visible but do not cover the bank details as they should not become unreadable.
• Never sign a voided check.
• In case a mistake is made, begin all over with a new check, making the old one as “void” in your check register.

The Importance of a voided check

A voided check is an element that is used in several financial circumstances. They are generally required by employers for setting up direct deposit authorization forms.

Moreover, voided checks are used to set up automatic payments for bills, facilitating efficient financial transactions. For users who are not very familiar with a checkbook, viewing a voided check can clear the air about its functions and how it looks in hand.

When do you need a voided check?

Understanding the scenarios in which a voided check is needed is pivotal for both business owners and self-employed individuals for effectively managing their finances. Below are some scenarios when a voided check might be needed:

• Direct deposits: When you begin a new job with your employer, a voided check is requested. It provides your employer with vital information like routing number and bank account number, to make sure that your salary is deposited correctly into your checking account.

• Automatic bill payments: For regular payments such as loan repayments, companies ask for a voided check. This enables them to set up an Automated Clearing House transfer, which ensures automatic deductions from your bank account for recurring bills. 

• Linking bank accounts: If you’re setting up a link between two different bank accounts, such as a checking account and a savings account, specifically with online banks, a voided check might be required.

• Verifying account information: In scenarios like applying for a student loan, firms might request a voided check as proof of income from your current bank account. This serves as a verification tool for your bank account details.

• Implementing payroll services: Businesses require a voided check from their employees to set up payroll services. This ensures that accurate payments are made through direct deposits.

Can I get a voided check from my bank online?

You can get a voided check from bank online, but it all depends on the bank’s policies. Below are your options to get a voided check from my bank online:

• Download voided check copy: Some banks let you log into your online bank account and download a PDF voided check instantly.

• Pre-filled direct deposit form: Banks offer a form that includes your account number, routing number, and bank information.

• Order checks online through your bank: In case you do not have paper checks, you can order them through online banking and then void them by writing “VOID” across them.

• Visit your bank’s mobile application: Banks allow you to request a voided check through their mobile application.

Where to get a voided check?

A voided check can be found at:

• Online checks from your bank: If you do not have checks, you can order them online through your bank’s website.

• From your checkbook register: If you have a personal checkbook register, take a blank check from it and write “VOID” across the check.

• Visiting your bank branch: If online options are not available, then you can visit your nearest branch and request an official voided check.

How to make a voided check at home? 

Follow the instructions below to make a voided check at home:

Step 1: If you have a checkbook:

• Take a blank check.
• Write “VOIDED” across the check in big, bold letters across the front.
• Do not sign it.
• Keep a copy for your records.

Step 2: If you do not have checks:

•  Print a sample check:
  • Use a free pay stub template.
  • Insert your bank name, routing number and account number.
  • Print it and then write “VOIDED” all across it.
• Bank’s direct deposit form:
  • Many banks let users download a direct deposit authorization form from their website.
  • It has the same information as a check.
  • Employers accept this instead of a voided check.
• Request a counter check from bank:
  • If you want it official, visit your nearest branch and ask for a counter check, then void it.

Alternatives to voided check for direct deposit

The alternative to voided check for direct deposit includes:

1) Direct deposits authorization form:

• It is provided by your employer.
• Fill in your routing number + account number and sign it.
• Sometimes it requires your bank’s stamp.

2) Counter Check from your bank:

•  In case you have visited your nearest branch, the bank will print you a counter check with your account details.

3) Deposit Stubs:

• Employers accept a pre-printed deposit stubs from your checkbook.

FAQs

1) How do I get my voided check?

Sign in to mobile banking. Select the account you want to link. Select Account Info, then select View Cheque. A preview of your void cheque with your account information opens. Select Open PDF. Print or save the form, sign it, and submit it to the company that requested the information.

2) What can I give instead of a voided check?

Alternatively, many online banking services provide account holders with direct deposit information that you can provide to the payor, including a form you can download and use in place of a void cheque.

3) Is it safe to give a voided check?

Yes. It is safe to give a void cheque because there is the word VOID on it, and banks look out for this. It cannot be used to withdraw money from your account.

4) Is a voided check same as a direct deposit form?

No, they’re not the same thing. A void cheque is often requested by an employer so it has the banking information it needs to facilitate setting up direct deposit of your pay into your bank account.

5) Is a voided check still valid?

The writer of your stale check may have specified void after 90 days or something similar on the check when it was issued to you, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your bank won’t cash the check after that period.

6) How can I cash a voided check?

You might need to provide a voided check to set up direct deposit (your employer will want your account and bank routing numbers), or maybe you made a mistake when you were writing out a check. Once a check is voided, it can’t be cashed or deposited.

Closing thoughts 

A voided check is a simple yet powerful financial tool that makes setting up direct deposits, automatic payments, or other banking transactions easy and secure. Whether you request one directly from your bank, create it at home, or use an alternative like deposit stubs and online banking forms, understanding how voided checks work can save you time and prevent errors. By knowing where to get one and how to use it properly, you’ll ensure smoother financial processes and peace of mind.