You're looking to get a voided check from Chase Bank? Fantastic! Whether it's for setting up direct deposit for your new job, arranging automatic bill payments, or simply correcting a mistake on a physical check, knowing how to properly void a check is a crucial financial skill. And the good news is, Chase makes it relatively straightforward!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step of obtaining a voided check from Chase, covering both traditional and modern methods. Let's get started!
How to Get a Voided Check from Chase Bank: A Step-by-Step Guide
How To Get A Voided Check From Chase Bank |
Step 1: Understanding Why You Need a Voided Check (Engage the User!)
Before we dive into the "how," let's quickly touch on the "why." Why do you even need a voided check, anyway? It's a great question! Typically, a voided check is requested for one of these main reasons:
Setting up Direct Deposit: This is perhaps the most common reason. Your employer or a government agency (like for Social Security benefits) needs your bank's routing number and your account number to send your funds directly into your account. A voided check provides this information accurately and securely, proving that the account details belong to you.
Setting up Automatic Payments (ACH Debits): Similarly, if you want to set up recurring payments for bills (like utilities, rent, loan payments, or subscriptions), the company might ask for a voided check to initiate an Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer. This ensures they have the correct bank information for automatic deductions.
Correcting a Mistake: If you accidentally started filling out a physical check with the wrong amount, payee, or date, instead of throwing it away, you should void it. This prevents anyone from accidentally or fraudulently using that incorrect check.
So, which of these applies to you? Knowing your reason will help you choose the most efficient method!
Step 2: Gathering Your Essentials
Regardless of the method you choose, having these items handy will make the process smoother:
Your Chase Bank Account Information: This includes your account number and routing number. You can find these on your existing checks, through your online banking portal, or on your monthly statements.
A Pen (for physical checks): A blue or black ink pen is highly recommended.
A Blank Check from Your Chase Checkbook (if you have one): This is the most straightforward way if you have physical checks.
Your Chase Online Banking Login Credentials: If you plan to get a voided check digitally.
Valid Photo Identification (for in-person visits): Such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport.
Step 3: Choosing Your Method: Physical Check, Online, or In-Branch
Chase offers several convenient ways to get a voided check. Let's explore each in detail:
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
Method A: Voiding a Physical Check (The Classic Approach)
This is the simplest method if you already have a Chase checkbook.
Select a Blank Check: Take a brand-new, unused check from your checkbook. Do not use a check you've already started to fill out or one with any markings.
Write "VOID" Prominently: Using your blue or black ink pen, write the word "VOID" in large, capital letters across the entire front of the check.
Tip: Make sure the word "VOID" covers the payee line, the amount line, and the signature line.
However, be careful not to completely obscure your bank's routing number and your account number, which are usually located at the bottom of the check. These numbers need to remain legible for direct deposit or automatic payment setup. Some people prefer to write "VOID" in smaller letters across each of the key fields (date, payee, amount, signature) rather than one giant "VOID," but as long as the numbers at the bottom are visible and the check is clearly unusable for payment, you're good.
Do NOT Sign the Check: A voided check should never be signed. This further ensures it cannot be used for any financial transaction.
Record It in Your Check Register: It's a good habit to keep meticulous records. In your check register, note the check number, the date, and that the check was "VOID." This helps you keep track of your finances and prevents any confusion later.
Make a Copy (Optional but Recommended): Before submitting the voided check, consider making a photocopy or taking a clear picture of it for your personal records. This can be helpful if there are any discrepancies or if you need to reference the information again.
Securely Deliver the Voided Check: Provide the voided check to the entity that requested it (e.g., your employer's HR or payroll department, the biller). If mailing, ensure it's sent to a trusted address.
Method B: Obtaining a Voided Check Digitally (Online or Mobile App)
Chase provides convenient options to get the necessary information for a "voided check" without needing a physical check. This is often in the form of a pre-filled direct deposit authorization form.
Sub-heading: Via Chase Online Banking (Website)
Log In to Your Chase Account: Go to the official Chase website (chase.com) and log in using your username and password.
Navigate to Account Services: Once logged in, look for an option related to "Account Services," "Customer Services," or "Set up direct deposit." This is often found in a drop-down menu or on a sidebar.
You might also see an option directly on your account summary page, perhaps by clicking on the last four digits of your account number.
Find "Set up direct deposit form" or Similar: Look for a link or option that specifically mentions "Set up direct deposit form" or "Direct Deposit Enrollment."
Download/Print the Form: Chase typically provides a downloadable PDF form that is pre-filled with your routing and account numbers. This form serves the same purpose as a voided check for direct deposit setup.
You can then print this form or, if the requesting party accepts digital submissions, email it to them.
Sub-heading: Via Chase Mobile App
Open the Chase Mobile App: Launch the Chase Mobile app on your smartphone or tablet and log in.
Select Your Account: Tap on the specific checking account for which you need the voided check information.
Look for "Manage Account" or "Account Services": Similar to the website, you'll need to find an option related to managing your account or accessing account services. This might be under a "More" or "..." menu.
Find "Set up direct deposit form": Locate the option to "Set up direct deposit form."
Generate/Download the Form: The app will guide you through generating a form with your account and routing details. You can usually save it as a PDF or email it directly from the app.
Method C: Visiting a Chase Bank Branch (In-Person Assistance)
If you prefer face-to-face assistance or don't have access to your checkbook or online banking, visiting a Chase branch is a viable option.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Locate Your Nearest Chase Branch: Use the Chase website or app's branch locator to find the branch most convenient for you.
Bring Valid Photo ID: Remember to bring a valid, government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport, military ID). This is essential for verifying your identity.
Speak to a Teller or Customer Service Representative: Inform them that you need a voided check or the necessary information for direct deposit/automatic payments.
Request a "Starter Check" or "Direct Deposit Form": They can often provide you with a starter check (a blank check from the bank that has your account and routing numbers printed on it) which you can then void on the spot. Alternatively, they can print out a pre-filled direct deposit authorization form for you.
Void the Starter Check (if applicable): If you receive a starter check, void it as described in Method A, ensuring the "VOID" is clear but your banking numbers are visible.
Confirm Information: Double-check that all the information on the form or starter check is accurate before you leave the branch.
Step 4: Confirming and Submitting Your Voided Check/Form
Once you have your voided check (physical or digital form), the final step is to submit it to the party that requested it.
Verify the Recipient's Requirements: Always confirm with the requesting party how they prefer to receive the voided check or direct deposit form. Some may require a physical copy, while others accept digital versions.
Ensure Legibility: If you've physically voided a check, make sure the "VOID" is clear and the account/routing numbers are still easily readable. If submitting a digital form, ensure the file is not corrupted and is clear.
Keep a Record: As mentioned before, always keep a copy for your own records. This is a crucial financial best practice.
Important Considerations for Your Security
Even though a check is voided, it still contains sensitive information. Always handle it with care:
Use Permanent Ink: When voiding a physical check, use a pen with permanent ink. This prevents anyone from erasing the "VOID" and potentially using the check.
Secure Disposal: Once you no longer need the physical voided check for submission, do not simply throw it in the trash. Shred it or tear it into many small pieces to protect your account information.
Be Wary of Scams: Only provide a voided check or your bank details to trusted individuals or legitimate organizations. Be suspicious of unsolicited requests for this information.
By following these steps, you can confidently and securely obtain a voided check or its equivalent from Chase Bank, ensuring your financial transactions are set up correctly and safely.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a voided check if I don't have a checkbook?
You can get a voided check (or its equivalent) from Chase even without a physical checkbook by logging into your Chase online banking account or mobile app and downloading a direct deposit authorization form, or by visiting a Chase branch in person and requesting a starter check or direct deposit form.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to void a check properly to ensure my security?
To void a check properly, write "VOID" in large, permanent ink letters across the entire front of a blank check, ensuring your account and routing numbers at the bottom remain legible. Never sign a voided check.
How to find my Chase bank routing number and account number for a voided check?
You can find your Chase bank routing and account numbers on any of your existing checks, by logging into your Chase online banking account or mobile app, or on your monthly bank statements.
How to use the Chase mobile app to get a direct deposit form instead of a voided check?
Log into the Chase Mobile App, select the account you want to use, then look for options like "Manage Account" or "Account Services," and find "Set up direct deposit form" to generate and download it.
How to get a voided check from Chase if I'm not near a branch?
If you're not near a Chase branch, the easiest way is to log into your Chase online banking account or mobile app and download the pre-filled direct deposit authorization form. This document contains all the necessary information a voided check would.
How to submit a digital voided check form to an employer?
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
First, confirm with your employer if they accept digital direct deposit forms. If they do, you can typically download the PDF form from Chase online banking or the mobile app and then email it or upload it to their secure portal as instructed.
How to make sure my voided check is accepted for direct deposit?
Ensure the word "VOID" is clearly visible but does not obscure your routing and account numbers. Provide a clean, legible copy (or the digital form) to your employer, and confirm with their payroll department if they have any specific requirements.
How to protect my information when providing a voided check?
Only provide a voided check or your banking information to trusted and legitimate organizations. When disposing of a physical voided check, shred it to prevent sensitive data from falling into the wrong hands.
How to know if I need a voided check or just the routing and account numbers?
Many entities now accept just the routing and account numbers, often through a direct deposit authorization form. However, some still specifically request a "voided check" as an extra layer of verification. Always ask the requesting party what they prefer.
How to get a counter check from Chase Bank if I don't have a checkbook?
You can visit any Chase Bank branch and request a "counter check" from a teller. This is typically a single blank check printed with your account and routing numbers. You can then void this counter check for your needs.