Yes, you can get a voided check from your bank, and it takes a few minutes
A voided check is a blank check you've marked as invalid so it cannot be cashed. Banks will print one for you at no cost, or you can void one yourself from your checkbook. You need a voided check when you're setting up direct deposit, automatic bill payments, or giving someone your banking details without handing over a live check. The bank account and routing numbers printed on it are the same ones you'd give over the phone, but the voided check proves you own the account.
The fastest way is to ask your bank teller in person—they can hand you one immediately. If you're not near a branch, call the customer service number on your debit card or bank statement and request one by mail, or log into your online banking portal to see if you can download a voided check image.
Key Takeaways
- A voided check is a blank check marked invalid so it cannot be cashed, used to prove you own a bank account.
- Your bank will print one for free at any branch, or you can void a check from your own checkbook by writing "VOID" across the front in large letters.
- In person is fastest—a teller can hand you one in minutes; by mail takes five to ten business days.
- The account and routing numbers on a voided check are the same as any other check from that account, so it's safe to share with employers, billers, or financial institutions.
Getting one from your bank in person
Walk into any branch of your bank during business hours and tell the teller you need a voided check. Bring your debit card or ID so they can confirm you own the account. The teller will print one on the spot—it takes less than a minute. You'll walk out with a blank check marked "VOID" across the front, ready to hand over.
This is the method to use if you need it today or within the hour. Branches are usually open weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday mornings, though hours vary by location.
Requesting one by phone or mail
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Tell them you need a voided check mailed to you. They'll confirm your identity by asking for your account number, Social Security number, or answers to security questions. Once verified, they'll mail one to the address on file.
Delivery takes five to ten business days depending on your bank and mail speed. Some banks charge a small fee for mailing checks, though most do not. Ask before they process the request if you want to know the cost.
Downloading or printing one online
Log into your online banking portal and look for a section labeled "Checks," "Account Services," or "Documents." Some banks let you download a voided check image as a PDF, which you can print at home or send electronically. This option is fastest after in-person pickup—usually available within minutes of logging in.
Not all banks offer this feature. If you don't see the option in your portal, call customer service to ask whether your bank supports digital voided checks, or use one of the other methods instead.
Voiding a check from your own checkbook
If you already have checks from your account, you can void one yourself without asking the bank. Take a blank check and write "VOID" in large letters across the front—across the signature line, the amount box, and the payee line. Use a pen so it cannot be erased. The account and routing numbers remain visible and readable at the bottom.
This works just as well as a bank-printed voided check for direct deposit, bill payment setup, or sharing your account details. The only drawback is that you're using up one check from your book. If you're running low on checks, ask the bank for one instead.
What information is on a voided check and how safe is it to share
A voided check shows your account number and your bank's routing number at the bottom. These two pieces of information are what employers, billers, and financial institutions need to set up direct deposit or automatic payments. The "VOID" marking makes it impossible to cash, so there's no risk someone will try to deposit it.
Sharing a voided check is safer than giving out these numbers verbally or by email, because the person receiving it can see the numbers are correct and match your bank's official format. However, treat it like you would any document with your account number on it—don't post it on social media or leave it lying around. Give it only to the person or organization that needs it.
When you might need a voided check
Employers ask for a voided check to set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, and insurance companies request one before setting up automatic payments. Landlords sometimes ask for one as proof of your bank account before accepting electronic rent payments. Some government agencies and nonprofits ask for one when you're receiving a refund or reimbursement.
In each case, the organization is asking for proof that you own the account and want payments sent there. A voided check serves that purpose without giving them a live check they could theoretically misuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a voided check if I've already closed that bank account?
No. A voided check is only valid for the account it's printed on. If you've closed the account, the routing number and account number are no longer active, and any direct deposit or payment sent to those numbers will fail. You'll need to get a voided check from your new bank account instead.
What if I don't have a checkbook and my bank won't print one?
Call your bank and ask them to mail you a voided check, or request a digital version through online banking. If neither option is available, ask the person or organization requesting the voided check whether they'll accept a bank statement showing your account and routing numbers instead. Many will accept that as proof of account ownership.
Is it safe to email a voided check?
Yes, it's safer than emailing your account number alone because the "VOID" marking prevents it from being cashed. However, email is not encrypted, so treat it like any sensitive document—send it only to the person or organization that requested it, and verify you have the correct email address before hitting send.
Can someone use my account number from a voided check to withdraw money?
No. Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money. A thief would also need your PIN, your online banking password, or physical access to your debit card. The voided check itself cannot be deposited or cashed because it's marked void. Your bank account is protected by multiple layers of security beyond just the account number.
Do I need a voided check if I'm setting up direct deposit online?
Not always. Many employers and banks let you enter your account and routing numbers directly into their website without uploading a voided check. However, some still require one as proof you own the account. Check the instructions for the direct deposit form—it will tell you whether a voided check is needed.