How to write a cheque, step by step.

Step 1 — Date

Write the date in the top-right box. A cheque is normally valid for three months from this date in India and the UK. Post-dating (a future date) means the bank should not pay it before that day.

Step 2 — Payee ("Pay")

Write the full name of the person or company being paid on the "Pay" line. Draw a line through any empty space after the name so nothing can be added. For account-payee cheques, the printed "or bearer" is struck out and the cheque is crossed (see Step 6).

Step 3 — Amount in words

On the long line, write the amount in words and finish with the word "Only" — for example "One Lakh Fifty Thousand Rupees Only". The "Only" closes the line so no words can be added after it. Include paise if any: "… Rupees and Fifty Paise".

Step 4 — Amount in figures

Write the same amount as digits in the box on the right, with the currency symbol. The words and figures must match exactly — if they differ, banks act on the words.

Step 5 — Signature

Sign at the bottom-right, matching the specimen signature the bank holds. An unsigned cheque will be returned.

Step 6 — Crossing (optional but safer)

Two parallel lines across the top-left, often with "A/C Payee", mean the cheque can only be paid into the named payee's account, not cashed over the counter. This is the safest way to send a cheque.

Common mistakes that bounce a cheque

• Words and figures don't match — the most frequent reason for rejection.
• Missing "Only" or gaps left on the words line, allowing alteration.
• Signature differs from the bank's specimen.
• Overwriting or correction without a signature beside it.
• Stale cheque — presented more than three months after the date.