How to Write a Cheque (and How to Cancel One)

Cheques are still used for rent, large payments and documentation. Writing one correctly avoids rejection; knowing how to stop one protects your money. Here is both.

How to fill out a cheque

• Date — top right. A cheque is valid for three months from this date.
• Pay — the payee’s full name. Add “& Co.” or strike the bearer line for safety on bearer cheques.
• Amount in words — write it fully and end with “only” (e.g. “Five thousand only”).
• Amount in figures — in the box, with /– after whole rupees.
• Signature — bottom right, matching your bank records.

What “account payee” crossing means

Drawing two parallel lines across the top-left corner and writing “A/C Payee” means the cheque can only be deposited into the payee’s account, not cashed over the counter. It is the safest way to write a cheque.

How to cancel or stop a cheque

• To void a blank cheque (e.g. for a KYC or auto-debit form): draw two lines across it and write CANCELLED — do not sign it.
• To stop a cheque you already issued: use your bank app or net banking → Stop cheque payment, enter the cheque number, and confirm. Do this before the cheque is presented for clearing.

Common mistakes

• Overwriting or correcting figures — banks reject altered cheques. Use a fresh leaf.
• Signature mismatch — sign exactly as registered.
• Forgetting “only” after the amount in words.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a cheque valid?

A cheque is valid for three months from the date written on it. After that it becomes stale and will not be honoured.

What does account payee cheque mean?

An account-payee crossing (two lines with "A/C Payee") means the cheque can only be credited to the payee’s bank account, not paid in cash.

How do I stop a cheque I already gave someone?

Use your bank app or net banking, choose Stop Cheque Payment, enter the cheque number and confirm, before it is presented for clearing.

Limits, charges and procedures are set by the RBI, NPCI and individual banks and can change. Always confirm current details in your own bank’s app before a transfer. Last updated June 2026.