You must have seen in a movie someone offering a blank cheque to seal a business deal? What is a blank cheque? When is a blank cheque issued and how to write a blank cheque? More importantly, should you be writing a blank cheque in the first place?
Let’s find out.
Blank Cheque Meaning
A blank cheque is a cheque which is issued by the authorized signatory without mentioned any amount on it. This means that you sign the cheque but do not fill in the amount to be paid to the payee or the bearer (depending on the type of cheque).
When is a Blank Cheque Issued?
A blank cheque is basically issued where the issuer or the account holder gives full authority to the payee/bearer to withdraw/transfer any sum of money. So this means that if you have Rs 10 lakhs in your account and you write a blank cheque in favour of someone, they can withdraw some of it or all of those Rs 10 lakhs from your account and the bank will have to pay, as you have signed the cheque.
How to Write a Blank Cheque?
- Start by writing the name of your bank on the top left-hand corner of the cheque.
- Write the current date on the “Date” line, located on the top right-hand corner of the cheque.
- Leave the “Payee” line blank. This is where you would typically write the name of the person or company to whom the cheque is payable.
- Write the amount in words on the line that says “Amount in words,” but leave the “Amount in figures” line blank.
- Sign the cheque at the bottom right-hand corner.
Should I Write a Blank Cheque?
No, it is not recommended to write a blank cheque. Writing a blank cheque means that you are giving someone else the power to fill in the amount they wish to receive, which poses a significant risk of fraud and financial loss. By leaving the amount and payee blank, you are essentially giving someone else free access to your bank account, which can lead to unauthorized transactions and a potential financial ruin.
If you need to make a payment, it is always best to fill in the exact amount and the payee’s name to avoid any confusion or errors. Additionally, it is important to keep your cheques secure and not share them with anyone who you do not trust explicitly. Writing a blank cheque is a risky practice that should be avoided at all costs.
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Blank Cheque: FAQs
A blank cheque can be any type of cheque issued by the account holder in favour of someone.
Yes. A blank cheque is valid only if the authorized person signs it. Without it, it’s just a piece of paper which has no value in a bank.
A blank cheque is valid 3 months from the date mentioned on it. If no date is mentioned, then the payee or bearer can add any date to it and use it within 3 months of that date.
No. You should write a blank cheque only in case of an emergency and in favour of someone you know and trust. Otherwise, you may lose all the money in your bank account.
There is no maximum limit on blank cheques.
