by 
The Curious Bag
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Bank checks are a good way to exchange money without using cash. It is important to fill them out completely and properly to avoid having them altered.
Concerns
Someone could alter a check by adding an amount or filling in their name or signature and then trying to cash it.
Solutions
Checks should always be filled out completely and in pen. The amount in figures and in words should be entered as far to the left as possible to prevent someone from adding to it. The amount should always be written out in words and a line drawn between the words and the word "dollars."
Considerations
It is important to always sign checks the same way because a bank may check the signature against a form of identification or the original signature card.
Record Keeping
The checks are numbered in order, and it is important to keep a record of the checks cashed including the check number. If the numbers are recorded, it is easy to identify when a check is missing.
Types
Checks can be used to obtain cash from the check writer's account. In that case, the check is made out to "cash" or to the check writer and endorsed on the back.
Source:
New Mexico State University, Cooperative Extension Service: Write Checks the Right Way
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