In this article on banking basics, we’re going to share how to write a check with cents.
This article is part of our free series on sending money, including the ultimate guide to bank checks, which you can access here.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- How to Write a Check With Cents?
- What Other Information Is Required on a Check?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
How to Write a Check With Cents?
To write a check with cents, you will need to include the total value of the check being issued in numerical and written format. The commonly accepted check writing format involves placing the numerical representation of the total value of the cents over 100.
An alternative method for writing the value of cents is to write the number followed by cents at the end of the dollar value of the check. Here are examples of both of these options for a check being issued for one hundred and fifty cents (US $150.00).
Example 1: Numerical Expression of Cents on a Check
One Hundred Dollars and 50/100
Example 2: Written Expression of Cents on a Check
One Hundred Dollars and Fifty Cents
Of course, writing the value of the cents on a check is not the only information that you need to include when issuing a check. So, to help you with preparing your check, we share the other important information you’ll need to provide in the following section.
What Other Information Is Required on a Check?
The other information required on a check includes the legal name of the recipient, the total value of the check being issued, the date of issuance, and more. We will look at each of these requirements and more below.
Name the Check Is Made Out To
One of the most important pieces of information that is required on a check is the name of the recipient receiving the check. This should include the legal name of the recipient as recorded by their bank. This is important because the receiving bank (or cashing bank) will verify the identity of the individual prior to processing the check.
Amount of Check in Words
The total amount of the check needs to be written in words on the face of the check. This will include the dollar value and the cents, which can be written numerically (e.g. 50/100) or in written format (e.g. fifty cents).
Amount of Check in Numbers
The total amount of the check also needs to be written in numbers in the provided space on the face of the check. This will include the dollar value of the check and the cents, which is placed after the decimal point.
Date the Check Was Written
The date that the check was written is an important part of the check. This is because the date of the check will determine when the check is no longer valid. In most cases, banks will no longer accept checks six months after the issue date. Banks refer these as stale-dated checks.
Check Signature Line
The check signature line is another important consideration as it is the source of verification for the issuing bank to ensure the check is valid. With this in mind, you should carefully sign a check, ensuring that the signature matches the signature maintained at the bank.
Check Memo Note
Lastly, you can include a check memo note. That said, the check memo note is optional. However, it can be helpful in informing the bank of the purpose of the check or providing the recipient with specific context for the purpose of the specific check.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people looking into how to write a check with cents. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
How Do You Write a Check for .50 cents?
To write a check for .50 cents, you will include the total dollar amount followed by “.50” in the space for the numerical value as well as “50/100” or “Fifty Cents” in the space for the written value of the check.
Should You Write Out Cents on a Check?
You should include the value of cents on a check. But, you can decide between writing out the cents or including the cents in numerical format on the written check line. An example of this for a check of fifty cents would be “Fifty Cents” or “50/100”.
Can You Write a Check for 20 Cents?
Yes, you can write a check for 20 cents as there is no limit on the value that you can pay through a check. That said, paying for 20 cents with a check is both impractical and often uneconomical.
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