Knowing how to get a voided check is a practical skill — employers, lenders, and financial institutions often require one to set up direct deposit or automatic payments. A voided check is a standard paper check with the word "VOID" written across it, making it unusable for payment but usable as proof of your banking details. This guide walks you through exactly how to void a check, when you need one, and what to do if you don't have a paper checkbook. Learning about how to void a check can also help inform your decisions. Learning about voided check can also help inform your decisions.
What Is a Voided Check?
A voided check is a personal or business check that has been rendered non-negotiable — it cannot be deposited or cashed — by writing "VOID" across the front in large letters. Despite being unusable for payment, a voided check displays all the information needed to initiate electronic transfers: the bank's ABA routing number (the nine-digit number at the bottom left) and your account number (the number immediately following the routing number). Employers use this information to set up direct deposit payroll, and lenders or service providers use it to establish ACH automatic payments. See also: void check.
Step-by-Step: How to Void a Check
Follow these steps to properly void a check: See also: how to write a check.
- Take a blank check from your checkbook — do not fill in any payment information first.
- Using a black or blue permanent marker or ballpoint pen, write "VOID" in large capital letters across the entire face of the check. Write it large enough so the word is clearly visible and overlaps the pay-to line, amount box, and signature area.
- Do not write over the printed numbers along the bottom — the routing and account numbers must remain clearly readable.
- Provide the voided check directly to the requesting party — your employer's HR department, lender, or financial institution.
- Keep a record of who you gave the check to and when, as this information can be used for banking access.
When You Need a Voided Check
A voided check is most commonly required in these situations: See also: how to endorse a check.
- Direct deposit setup: Your employer's payroll provider needs your routing and account numbers to deposit wages electronically.
- ACH automatic payments: Lenders, insurers, and utility companies may require a voided check to set up recurring bank drafts.
- Mortgage or loan applications: Some lenders request a voided check to verify the bank account where funds will be disbursed.
- IRS tax refund via direct deposit: The IRS may ask for routing and account number verification, which a voided check provides.
What If You Don't Have a Paper Checkbook?
If you do not have paper checks, several alternatives may be accepted depending on the requester's policies: See also: how to fill out a deposit slip.
- Direct deposit form from your bank: Most banks and credit unions provide a pre-printed direct deposit authorization form that contains your routing and account numbers — this is often accepted in place of a voided check.
- Bank letter: Request a letter from your bank on official letterhead that confirms your routing number, account number, and account type.
- Printed online banking information: Some institutions provide a downloadable account summary showing routing and account numbers, though not all payees accept this format.
- Starter checks: If you are a new account holder with no checks yet, ask your bank for starter checks or counter checks, which you can then void.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not write over the magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) line — the row of printed numbers along the bottom edge of the check — as these must remain scannable. Do not use pencil, which can be erased; always use permanent ink. Never provide a voided check to an unknown party or respond to unsolicited requests for your banking information — routing and account numbers can be used to initiate unauthorized withdrawals. If you suspect fraudulent activity on your account, contact your bank and report it to the CFPB. See also: how long a check is good for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a voided check used for?
A voided check is used to provide your bank routing number and account number to an employer, lender, or service provider for setting up direct deposit or automatic ACH payments. The word "VOID" written across it ensures the check cannot be cashed or deposited. You may also find it useful to read about how to get a certified check.
Can I get a voided check if I don't have checks?
Yes — if you don't have paper checks, your bank can typically provide a direct deposit authorization form or a letter on official letterhead that contains your routing and account numbers, which many payees accept in place of a voided check. You may also find it useful to read about how to fill out a money order.
Is it safe to give someone a voided check?
A voided check reveals your bank's routing number and your personal account number, which can be used to initiate ACH transactions. Only provide a voided check to trusted, verified entities — such as your employer's payroll department or a licensed lender — and never in response to unsolicited requests. You may also find it useful to read about setting up direct deposit with Cash App.
How is a voided check different from a canceled check?
A voided check has never been used for payment — it is created specifically to share account information and cannot be deposited. A canceled check is one that has been processed and paid by the bank, reflecting a completed transaction. You may also find it useful to read about ACH transfer timing.
Can I use a photo of a voided check?
Some employers and payroll providers accept a photograph or scanned image of a voided check for direct deposit setup — check with the specific requester, as policies vary. When sending a digital image, use a secure method to protect your banking information.
Sources & References
- Federal Reserve — Consumer's Guide to Checking Accounts — https://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/checkingaccount/
- IRS.gov — Direct Deposit for Your Tax Refund — https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts
- CFPB — Protecting Your Bank Account — https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/fraud/
- FDIC — Checking Accounts — https://www.fdic.gov/resources/consumers/money-smart/
Last updated: April 28, 2026