How to Fill a Cheque Correctly in India (With Example & Mistakes to Avoid)
Filling a cheque correctly is crucial to avoid bank rejection, fraud, or processing delays. This comprehensive guide covers proper cheque writing techniques for all major Indian banks including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis, and more. Learn the exact steps, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips for secure cheque filling.
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Why Proper Cheque Filling Matters in India
In India's banking system, incorrectly filled cheques are one of the leading causes of payment rejections and financial disputes. Whether you're paying rent, making business transactions, or handling personal finances, knowing how to fill a cheque properly can save you from embarrassing situations and potential financial losses.
This guide covers the standardized cheque-filling process followed by major Indian banks including State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank. The techniques are universal and applicable to all Indian banking institutions.
Step-by-Step Cheque Filling Guide
1Write the Correct Date (DD/MM/YYYY Format)
Always write the date in DD/MM/YYYY format. For example, if today is 25th January 2025, write "25/01/2025". Never use shortcuts like "25/1/25" as this can lead to confusion and potential misuse.
✅ Correct Examples:
- • 25/01/2025 (25th January 2025)
- • 15/03/2025 (15th March 2025)
- • 01/12/2025 (1st December 2025)
❌ Incorrect Examples:
- • 25/1/25 (unclear year)
- • 25-01-2025 (wrong format)
- • Twenty-five January 2025 (not allowed)
2Write the Payee's Full Name Without Spelling Errors
Write the recipient's full name exactly as it appears on their bank account or official documents. Spelling errors can lead to cheque rejection or processing delays.
Important Tips:
- • Use capital letters for clarity
- • Don't use abbreviations (write "PRIVATE LIMITED" not "PVT LTD")
- • For companies, write the complete registered name
- • Double-check spelling before writing
- • Write "SELF" only for self-cheques
3Write the Amount in Words (End with "Only")
Write the amount in words clearly and always end with "Only" to prevent unauthorized alterations. Start from the far left of the line and draw a line after "Only" to prevent additions.
Examples:
- • ₹5,000 = "Five Thousand Only"
- • ₹12,500 = "Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Only"
- • ₹1,25,000 = "One Lakh Twenty Five Thousand Only"
- • ₹2,50,750 = "Two Lakh Fifty Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Only"
Pro Tips:
- • Use Indian numbering system (Lakh, Crore)
- • Write clearly in capital letters
- • Draw a line after "Only" to prevent alterations
4Write the Amount in Numbers (Must Match Words Exactly)
Write the numerical amount in the designated box. This must match exactly with the amount written in words. Any discrepancy will result in cheque rejection.
Format Rules:
- • Always include ₹ symbol
- • Use Indian comma format (1,25,000)
- • Write clearly and legibly
- • Don't leave spaces before the amount
- • Cross out unused space after amount
Examples:
- • ₹5,000/-
- • ₹12,500/-
- • ₹1,25,000/-
5Sign in the Bottom Right Signature Box
Your signature must match the specimen signature registered with the bank. Sign only within the designated signature box, never outside it.
Signature Guidelines:
- • Sign exactly as per bank records
- • Use the same pen throughout
- • Don't sign outside the designated box
- • Avoid overwriting if you make a mistake
- • Joint account holders must sign as required
6Draw Lines Across Empty Sections
Draw diagonal lines across all empty spaces to prevent unauthorized additions or alterations. This is a crucial security measure.
Security Measures:
- • Draw lines in empty spaces after payee name
- • Cross out unused portion after amount in words
- • Fill any remaining blank areas
- • Don't leave any section completely empty
- • Use the same pen for lines and writing
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5 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling Cheques
1. Leaving Blank Fields
Never leave any field empty. Banks reject cheques with incomplete information.
Solution: Fill all sections and draw lines across unused spaces.
2. Using Correction Fluid
Using correction fluid (whitener) or overwriting creates suspicion of forgery.
Solution: Always use a fresh cheque if you make a mistake.
3. Amount Mismatch
When amounts in words and numbers don't match, banks reject the cheque.
Solution: Double-check both amounts before submitting.
4. Signing Outside the Box
Signatures outside the designated area are not accepted by banks.
Solution: Always sign within the signature box boundaries.
Expert Tips for Secure Cheque Handling
How to Cancel a Cheque
To cancel a cheque, draw two parallel lines across it and write "CANCELLED" between them.
- • Draw lines diagonally across the cheque
- • Write "CANCELLED" in capital letters
- • Sign below the cancellation
- • Keep cancelled cheques for records
Post-Dated Cheques
Post-dated cheques have a future date and cannot be encashed until that date.
- • Write future date in DD/MM/YYYY format
- • Clearly mention it's post-dated
- • Ensure sufficient balance on due date
- • Inform the recipient about the date
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use blue ink to fill a cheque?
Yes, you can use blue or black ink to fill a cheque. However, it's recommended to use black ink as it's more professional and scans better. Avoid using pencil, gel pens, or any other colored inks as they may not be accepted by banks.
What is the difference between bearer and account payee cheques?
A bearer cheque can be encashed by anyone who presents it at the bank, while an account payee cheque can only be deposited into the payee's bank account. For security, always cross your cheques and write "A/C Payee Only" to make them account payee cheques.
What if I make a mistake while filling a cheque?
If you make a mistake, don't use correction fluid or overwrite. Instead, cancel the cheque by drawing two parallel lines across it, write "CANCELLED," and use a fresh cheque. Banks reject cheques with corrections as they may be suspected of forgery.
How long is a cheque valid in India?
A cheque is valid for 3 months from the date written on it. After 3 months, it becomes a "stale cheque" and banks will not honor it. However, you can request the issuer to provide a fresh cheque if the old one has expired.
Can I deposit a cheque in any branch of my bank?
Yes, you can deposit a cheque in any branch of your bank across India. However, for faster processing, it's better to deposit in your home branch. For other bank cheques, there might be clearing charges and longer processing times.
What should I do if my cheque is dishonored?
If your cheque is dishonored, check the reason (insufficient funds, signature mismatch, etc.). Contact your bank immediately to resolve the issue. You may need to pay penalty charges and issue a fresh cheque to the payee.
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