Direct deposit guide
Voided Check for Direct Deposit: Free Example and Step-by-Step Guide
When you start a new job, your employer often asks for a voided check so they can set up direct deposit. It sounds technical, but it is simple: the check carries the routing number and account number your pay should go to, and the word VOID keeps anyone from cashing it. This guide shows what the check should look like, how to void it, and what to do if you do not have one.
The short answer
To give a voided check for direct deposit, take an unused check from your own account, write VOID in large letters across the front in pen, do not sign it, and hand it to your payroll contact. They read the routing number, account number and check number from the bottom. If you have no checks, use a bank letter, a direct deposit form, or a voided check PDF.
Free downloads
No sign-in and no payment needed. Basic printable versions.
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Voided check example with labeled numbers
A fictional sample showing the routing, account and check numbers, plus how to void a check.
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Direct deposit information sheet
A printable form for your name, employer, bank details and signature.
What your employer needs from a voided check
- The routing number: nine digits that identify your bank.
- The account number: identifies your account at that bank.
- The account holder name, so payroll can match it to you.
- Confirmation that the account is real and open, which is why a check or bank document is preferred over typed numbers.
Where the numbers are on a check
Along the bottom edge of a check, three groups of numbers are printed. From left to right they are usually the routing number, the account number, and the check number. The check number also appears in the top right corner. Banks lay the line out the same way, but some print the account number before the check number, so look at the labels in our free example if you are unsure.
Download the free labeled voided check example below. It uses a fictional bank and fictional numbers, so you can see the layout without any real account details.
How to void a check, step by step
- Take an unused check from your own checkbook. Do not use a check you have already filled in.
- Write VOID in large letters across the front, in dark pen, so it covers the payee and amount lines but leaves the numbers at the bottom readable.
- Do not sign it and do not fill in an amount.
- Take a clear photo or scan if your employer accepts one, or hand over the paper original.
- Keep a note of the check number so you can mark it as voided in your register.
No checks? Options that usually work
Because every employer sets its own rules, ask your payroll contact what they will accept before you go to any trouble.
- A bank letter on letterhead with your name, routing number and account number.
- A direct deposit form from your bank or your employer, filled in and signed. Our free printable direct deposit sheet is below.
- Typed bank details from online banking, if your payroll provider accepts them.
- A voided check PDF created online with your own accurate details.
Common direct deposit mistakes to avoid
- Transposed digits: read the routing and account numbers aloud and compare them against your bank app.
- Using the wrong account: confirm the account is open and in your name.
- Writing the check number in place of the account number.
- Mixing up checking and savings. Tell payroll which type it is.
- Signing the voided check. It should never be signed.
- Sending photos through unsecured channels. Use the method your employer provides.
How long does direct deposit take to start?
Many employers need one or two pay cycles to process a new direct deposit setup, and some run a small test deposit first. Until it begins, you may be paid by paper check. If your first payday is close, hand in your voided check or form as early as you can.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give a voided check for direct deposit?
Not always. Many employers accept a direct deposit form, a bank letter or typed account details. A voided check is common because it proves the account exists, so ask what your payroll team prefers.
Is it safe to give my employer a voided check?
It shows your routing and account numbers, so only give it to your employer's payroll or HR team. It is marked VOID and unsigned, so it cannot be cashed.
Can I use a deposit slip instead of a voided check?
Sometimes. Some deposit slips show the routing and account numbers, but many employers do not accept them because they are not as reliable as a check. Ask first.
Can I send a photo of a voided check?
Many payroll teams accept a clear photo or scan. Use their secure upload or the method they tell you, and avoid posting it publicly.
What if my routing number looks different on my bank app?
Some banks have different routing numbers by state or by transaction type. Use the routing number printed on your check or labeled for direct deposit.
What does VOID do?
The word VOID shows that the check is not valid for payment. It stops anyone from cashing it while still letting them read the numbers needed to set up direct deposit.
Need a clean voided check with your own details? Create it in under a minute.
Create a voided check PDFMore voided check guides and free downloads
This guide is general information. Employers and banks set their own requirements, so confirm what is accepted. Only use your own accurate bank details. The example check is fictional and cannot be used for banking. EasyIncomeDocs is not a bank.