Check Your Checks

Check Your Checks AG WORLD Ag World 6-5-18 Shown on the right are several examples of how sloppy check writing can cost you money if your checks should happen to fall into the wrong hands. Some check-writing tips: When writing a check, write the figure amount as near the dollar sign ($) as possible and write the cents amount in smaller print and underline it. Begin writing the amount in words as far to the left as possible, and draw a line through any remaining space so the amount can't be altered. Don't leave space between words or letters. When writing the word "and" between the dollar amount and the cents, slant the word and underline it. If you write a check for "Cash", don't fill it out until you're ready to present it for payment since anyone can cash such checks. Don't get into the habit of using a scrawled or printed signature, as these are easily forged. Keep blank checks away from anything showing your signature, such as your cancelled checks, or from your identification cards or other articles containing your signature. Hide unused new checks so thieves can't find them. A common practice with burglars is to take two or three check books from the bottom of a full box, then stuff paper into the space to make the box look full and undisturbed, giving the thief extra time to ''rip off" your account before you discover anything's wrong.

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