Online payments and credit cards are increasingly popular, but many companies all over the world still require payments by cheque (or "check" in the US) rather than these other options.

The format and protocol for writing a British cheque differs slightly than that of the US, though the basic information remains the same. Following the proper format and procedure for writing a cheque will help to ensure your payment isn't lost or dismissed.

Write the current date on the top right of the check next to "Date" in day, month, year format. For example, "18 May 2010."

Write the payee's name on the "Pay" line, which may be either the name of an individual or a company name.

Write the numerical pound amount next to the pound sign on the right side of the check. For example: "44.67."

Write the pound amount in words using the line beneath the "Pay" line, moving on to the third line if necessary. For example: "Forty four pounds and sixty seven pence." If there is space left, draw a line to prevent anyone from adding more to the amount.

Sign your name in script on the bottom right line of the cheque.

Tip

Most British cheques have the phrase "Account Payee" printed on them. If your cheque does not include this phrase and you want to pay the cheque to the payee's account (i.e., if you do not want anyone to be able to cash the cheque), write "Account Payee" at the top of the cheque.