In this article, we’re explaining how to write a cheque in Canada.
While writing a cheque in Canada is relatively straightforward there are a few nuances you need to be aware of, which we’ll explain below.
This article is part of our free series on how to send and receive money, including bank checks, bank transfers, and more, which you can access by clicking 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 Cheque in Canada
- How to Fill Out a Bank Cheque in Canada?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to Explore Your Options?
How to Write a Cheque in Canada
To write a cheque in Canada you will first need a checking account at a Canadian financial institution with a corresponding cheque book. Then, to write the cheque you will need to fill in the legal name of the recipient, the amount you plan to pay them with the cheque, the date the cheque is written, and your signature.
How to Fill Out a Bank Cheque in Canada?
To fill out a bank cheque in Canada, you will need to have all of the necessary information on hand. However, there is also an optional field that you may or may not include depending on the purpose of the check.
For example, when paying for specific services, a specific invoice, or paying a service provider you pay on a regular basis, you may choose to include a reference to the exact purpose of the payment in the memo section of your cheque.
Here is a closer look at how to write a cheque in Canada with reference to all of the necessary sections.
Write the Cheque Date
Start by inserting the date that you are writing (or issuing) the cheque. This is typically located at the top right corner of the cheque.
Write a Name on the Cheque
Next, write the name of the person you wish to pay with the cheque, this is the recipient. This is generally the first “line” on the cheque. And, it is preceded by the word “Pay” or “Pay to the order of”. Make sure you have the correct legal spelling of the recipient’s name before filing out this section.
Write the Cheque Amount
You will need to write the amount that you wish to pay the recipient in both numerical and written format in Canadian dollars. The numerical amount is typically underneath the date to the left of the recipient. The written amount is directly below the name of the recipient.
Write in the Memo Line
The memo line in a cheque is optional. However, if you are paying a specific invoice, writing a cheque to pay for a specific purchase (e.g. purchasing a used car), or even writing a cheque to yourself in cash, then adding a short explanation in the memo line can avoid further confusion or questioning from the bank.
Sign the Cheque
After all of the other information is completed, you can proceed with signing the cheque. The signature is located at the bottom right of the cheque, above the cheque and routing number.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are three of the most common questions that we receive from people looking at how to write a cheque in Canada. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
How Long Is a Cheque in Canada Valid For?
In Canada, a cheque is usually considered valid for as long as six months. That said, it may be possible to cash cheques older than six months at certain banks, though it will be at the discretion of the financial institution you visit and ultimately the teller you’re dealing with.
That said, if you are dealing with a certified or cashier’s cheque, these funds are effectively earmarked for the purpose of paying this cheque and can be deposited after six months.
How Do You Properly Write a Cheque?
To properly write a cheque, you will need to insert the date the cheque is issued, the legal name of the recipient, the amount you wish to pay in both numerical and written format, any relevant memo for the purpose of the payment, and your signature. This information will then be verified by the issuing bank when they receive the cheque. This can be done either directly from the depositor or from the bank that initially processes the cheque.
How Do I Write a Cheque to CIBC Canada?
To write a cheque to CIBC in Canada, you will first need to insert the date that you are issuing the cheque. You will then need to confirm and insert the name of the specific person or entity that you wish to pay. Next, you will need to insert the amount of payment (both written and numeric) and add a payment memo. Finally, you will then add your signature once you confirm the information above is correct.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
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