Does a blank check count as a voided check?

Key takeaways

• Write “VOID” in large letters over the front of the check but don’t write over the bank account and routing numbers on the bottom of the check

• Commonly needed when setting up direct deposit or automatic payments via a physical form

To void a check, all you need to do is write the word “VOID” across the front of the check. Write in big letters that ideally go across the areas where you enter information. Use a pen or marker that shows up well on the check. The goal is for the word “VOID” to be clear and unerasable.

If you’re using the check in order to share your bank account information, make sure you do not write over the bank information — the numbers printed along the bottom of the check. In many cases, it’s acceptable to send a picture of a check. If that’s the case, void a blank check and then take a picture of it. Anytime you void a blank check, it’s useful to take a picture so you can use it in the future if necessary.

Anyone can void a check and you can do it whether the check is blank or whether you’ve already filled it out. Either way, banks will not accept a voided check.

In this article:

• Why to void a check

• What if you don’t have checks?

Voided checks are useful because they allow you to share your bank account number and your bank routing number without having to worry about someone actually using the check.

Sometimes when you want to set up direct deposit or recurring payments using a physical form, the other party will ask you to include a blank check. This is common when scheduling automatic mortgage payments. However, you don’t want to just give away a blank check in case someone fills it out and tries to cash it. Send a voided check instead.

Again, just make sure not to write over the printed numbers at the bottom of the check. This is the information they actually need.

Voiding a check is also a safety precaution. It allows you to cancel a check you don’t need anymore. Perhaps you didn’t use a check but still need the name or information written on it, and so don’t want to rip it up yet. Voiding it allows you to see the writing without the risk that you lose the check and someone else uses it. Even if you plan to rip up the check immediately, voiding it is an easy, extra measure against fraud.

What are void cheques used for?

You may be asked to provide a void cheque when setting up a payroll deposit or automatic payments. Since your account information is printed on each cheque, the void check can be used to set up an electronic link to your bank account.

Voiding the cheque ensures that you aren’t sending out a “blank cheque” that criminals could fill in and use to withdraw money from your account.

Direct Deposits

Many employers use direct deposit to pay their employees instead of writing cheques. Once your account is linked electronically, your money will be deposited directly into your account on payday.

Automatic Payments

You can set up automatic payments for recurring expenses like bills and rent so that the money is automatically withdrawn from your account instead of you having to send a cheque or pay in person.

How do I void a cheque?

Simply take one of your cheques and write “VOID” across it in large letters using a pen or permanent marker.

Make sure not to cover the numbers in the lower left of the cheque – this is the banking information that is required to set up the link to your account.

What do I do if I need a void cheque but don’t have a chequebook? 

For most void cheque information requests, you can use a form provided by CIBC that collects account information in place of a void cheque.

There are two ways to access the form:

Use the form on CIBC.com

1. Download the Payroll, Direct Deposit, or Pre-Authorized Payment Form (PDF, 180 KB) Opens in a new window.
2. Fill out each field by typing in the requested information.
3. Save the form onto your computer. You will need to print a copy in order to sign the “Customer Signature” space.
4. Submit the form to the company depositing the payment into your account or to the billing company. If you are sending the form by email, remember to scan your signed copy so that the electronic version contains your signature.

You can also ask for a paper copy of the Payroll, Direct Deposit, or Pre-Authorized Payment Form at your CIBC Banking Centre. Using the online form saves time and lets you type in your information.

Use the form on CIBC Online Banking

1. Sign into CIBC Online Banking and select “My Accounts” from the menu.
2. Select the account you want to link.
3. Select the “Void cheque/direct deposit info” link from the “Manage My Account” dropdown.
4. Review the Account Information form with your account information including transit number, institution number, and account number.
5. Print the form, add your signature and date, and submit to the company who requested the information.    

What can I use instead of a voided check?

What makes a check void?

How do I void a blank check direct deposit?

Is a voided check necessary?