Writing a check at Chase is a straightforward process, but the details matter — the bank won't process it if key information is missing or wrong

A check is a written instruction to your bank to move money from your account to someone else. Chase processes checks through the Federal Reserve's clearing system, which means the physical check travels through multiple banks before the money actually leaves your account. You need to fill in six pieces of information in a specific order, and each one has to be legible and accurate for the check to clear.

Chase provides checks when you open a checking account, or you can order more through your online banking portal, by phone, or in a branch. The checks come with your account number and routing number pre-printed. If you're using a blank check or one from another bank, Chase will still process it as long as you write your Chase account number on it.

Key Takeaways

  • Write the date in the top right corner, the payee name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, and the dollar amount in both numbers and words.
  • Sign the check in the bottom right corner — an unsigned check will be rejected, and the signature must match the name on your account.
  • Use black or blue ink, write legibly, and do not use pencil or markers, which banks may refuse to process.
  • Chase holds checks for up to five business days before the money leaves your account, but the recipient's bank may clear it faster.

The six pieces of information a check requires

Every check has the same layout. The date goes in the top right corner. Write it as the month, day, and year — for example, "01/15/2025" or "January 15, 2025". Chase will process post-dated checks (checks dated in the future), but the recipient's bank may deposit them early, so avoid this unless necessary.

The "Pay to the Order of" line is where you write the recipient's name. This can be a person, a business, a utility company, or a government agency. Write the name exactly as the recipient expects it — if you're paying "John Smith" but write "J. Smith", it may cause delays. If you're unsure of the exact name, ask the recipient or check their invoice.

The dollar amount appears in two places. On the right side, next to the dollar sign, write the amount in numbers — for example, "$150.50". On the line below "Pay to the Order of", write the same amount in words: "One Hundred Fifty and 50/100 Dollars". If the two amounts don't match, the bank will reject the check or process it for the written amount, which is the legal standard.

The memo line (bottom left) is optional. Use it to note what the check is for — "Rent," "Invoice #2847," or "January utilities." This helps both you and the recipient keep records organized, but it's not required for the check to clear.

Your signature goes in the bottom right corner. It must match the signature on file with Chase. An unsigned check will be rejected. If your signature has changed significantly since you opened the account, update it with Chase before writing checks, or the bank may flag them as suspicious.

What ink, pen, and paper to use

Use black or blue ink only. Banks have machines that scan checks, and these machines read black and blue reliably. Pencil, marker, gel pen, or any other color may not scan properly and could cause the check to be rejected or delayed.

Write legibly. The bank's scanning equipment reads your handwriting, and if a digit or letter is unclear, a human reviewer will have to examine it manually, which slows processing. If you make a mistake, do not cross it out or use correction fluid — void that check and write a new one.

Use the checks Chase provides or standard check stock. Checks printed on unusual paper or with non-standard layouts may not feed through the bank's processing equipment. If you order checks from a third party, make sure they're designed for the routing and account numbers Chase gave you.

How long a check takes to clear at Chase

Chase holds most checks for up to five business days after you write them. This is called the hold period. During this time, the money is still in your account, even though you've written the check. The hold exists because the check has to travel through the Federal Reserve's clearing system, which takes time.

The actual timeline depends on when the recipient deposits the check and which bank they use. If they deposit it the same day you write it, Chase may receive it within one to two business days. If they wait a week, the hold period starts when Chase receives it, not when you wrote it.

You can see the status of a check you've written by logging into Chase online banking, going to your account activity, and looking for the transaction. Once the check clears, the money leaves your account and the transaction shows as complete. Until then, the funds are reserved and you cannot spend them elsewhere.

Common mistakes that delay or reject checks

Mismatched dollar amounts are the most common problem. If you write "$100" in numbers but "Fifty Dollars" in words, the check will be rejected or processed for fifty dollars. Always make sure both amounts match exactly.

An illegible payee name or missing payee name will cause rejection. If you leave the "Pay to the Order of" line blank, Chase will not process the check. If the name is unclear, the recipient's bank may refuse to deposit it.

Signing the check in the wrong place or not signing it at all is an automatic rejection. The signature must be in the bottom right corner, and it must be your actual signature, not printed or typed.

Writing the date incorrectly or leaving it blank will also cause rejection. Some banks process checks without dates, but Chase requires one. If you post-date a check (write a future date), be aware that the recipient can deposit it when ready — post-dating does not legally prevent early deposit.

Ordering new checks from Chase

If you run out of checks, you can order more through Chase online banking. Log in, go to your checking account, and look for "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks." Chase usually delivers them within 7 to 10 business days. You can also call Chase customer service or visit a branch to order checks in person.

Chase charges for checks, though the cost varies by account type and how many you order. Some premium accounts include free checks. You can also order checks from third-party vendors like Deluxe or Costco, which are often cheaper, but make sure they're printed with your correct routing number and account number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write a check to myself?

Yes. Write your name on the "Pay to the Order of" line and sign it. You can then deposit it into another account at Chase or another bank. This is sometimes used to transfer money between accounts or to get cash from a teller.

What happens if someone deposits a check I wrote but never sent?

If the check clears, the money leaves your account. If you wrote a check but lost it or changed your mind, contact Chase when ready and ask them to stop payment on it. There is usually a fee for this service, and you must provide the check number, payee name, and amount.

Can I write a check for more money than I have in my account?

Chase will not prevent you from writing the check, but when it's deposited and clears, your account will be overdrawn. Chase will charge you an overdraft fee, usually $35 per transaction. Avoid this by checking your balance before writing checks.

Do I need to tell Chase when I write a check?

No. Checks are part of your normal account activity. Chase tracks them automatically once they're deposited and enter the clearing system. You can see pending checks in your online banking activity.

What if the recipient loses the check I sent them?

Ask them to contact their bank and file a claim for a lost check. If the check was never deposited, it will eventually expire (usually after six months to one year, depending on state law). Once it expires, the money returns to your account and you can write a new check.