Learn how to write a cheque in the UK with this simple step-by-step guide. Perfect for beginners—avoid common mistakes and write cheques correctly and safely. Let’s be honest—most of us don’t write cheques all that often anymore. With contactless cards, online banking, and apps like Monzo and Revolut, it’s easy to forget cheques even exist.
But they do still come in handy now and again—maybe you’re paying a tradesperson, making a donation, or sending money to someone who prefers paper over pixels. And when that moment comes, it helps to know exactly what you’re doing.
So if you’ve never written a cheque before (or it’s been years), don’t worry—this guide has got you covered.
How to Fill Out a Cheque (UK Style)
Here’s a quick breakdown of what goes where on a standard UK cheque:
1. Date it (top right corner)
Write the current date—something like 15/04/2025 or 15th April 2025.
Either way works, just keep it neat and accurate.
2. Who’s it for? (next to “Pay”)
Write the name of the person or company you’re paying.
Make sure you spell it correctly and use the name exactly as it appears on their bank account.
🧑 Example: John Smith
🏢 Example: British Gas
3. Write the amount in words (across the middle)
This is where you write out the amount you’re paying in full.
Start all the way at the left to stop anyone from adding sneaky extra words.
💬 Example: One hundred and twenty-five pounds only
(That little “only” at the end helps stop tampering.)
4. Add the amount in numbers (in the small box on the right)
This is the same amount, just in digits.
💷 Example: £125.00
5. Sign it (bottom right corner)
Use your usual bank signature. If it doesn’t match what your bank has on file, the cheque might bounce.
What a Cheque Looks Like
If you’ve never seen one before—or just need a refresher—it might help to look at a sample. (Want me to make you a visual? Just say the word!)
Common Mistakes to Watch Out For
Here are a few things to avoid:
- Wrong date – Don’t post-date cheques unless the person you’re paying has agreed.
- Spelling errors – Get the payee’s name right, or the cheque might not go through.
- Blank spaces – Fill out lines fully and draw a line after the amount in words to stop fraud.
- Using Tipp-Ex or scribbling things out – Just write a new cheque if you make a mistake.
Cheque Safety Tips
- Keep your chequebook in a safe place.
- Never sign a blank cheque (obviously).
- Note down the details (amount, date, cheque number) in the cheque stub for your records.
Are There Alternatives?
Yes—loads! These days, most people use:
- Bank transfers (via your app or online banking)
- Standing orders or Direct Debits for regular payments
- Instant payments using services like Paym or even bank-to-bank with a sort code and account number
Still, cheques have their place—especially for more traditional transactions or certain official payments.
Writing a cheque might seem a bit old-fashioned, but it’s still a useful skill to have in your back pocket. Now you know what to do, you’ll be ready when that random moment pops up where someone says, “Just write me a cheque.”
Need help creating a sample cheque image to go with this post? I can sort that for you too—just let me know!
