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How to Write a Check for Cash

1 min read · By the Check Writer 123 team

To write a check for cash, write "Cash" on the "Pay to the order of" line instead of a person's or business's name. Fill in the rest of the check — date, amount, signature — as usual.

Why this is riskier than a normal check

A check made out to "Cash" can be cashed by whoever is holding it — it doesn't require endorsement by a specific named payee the way a normal check does. If it's lost or stolen before you hand it over, anyone can cash it.

Because of that, only write a check this way when you're handing it directly to the person who will cash it, and avoid mailing a check made out to cash.

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Check Writer 123 lays out the check, writes the amount in words and prints the MICR line for you, on blank check stock, pre-printed stock or plain paper. Try it free for 14 days, no card needed.