The cents portion of a check trips up more people than any other line. The rule is simple once you've seen a few examples: write the cents as a fraction over 100. Here's how it works for every kind of amount.

The Format

On the written-amount line, the cents are always shown as a fraction: XX/100. So 50 cents is written as 50/100, 7 cents is 07/100, and zero cents is 00/100.

Worked Examples

$45.00 → "Forty-five and 00/100"
$45.50 → "Forty-five and 50/100"
$45.07 → "Forty-five and 07/100"
$1,250.99 → "One thousand two hundred fifty and 99/100"
$0.75 → "Zero and 75/100" (or "Only seventy-five cents")

The "And" Rule

The word "and" separates dollars from cents. Don't use it anywhere else — "One hundred and fifty dollars" is incorrect. It should be "One hundred fifty and 00/100."

Fill the Empty Space

After the fraction, draw a horizontal line all the way to the end of the amount line. This stops anyone from adding extra words to inflate the check.

What Happens If the Numbers Don't Match?

If the numerical amount and the written amount disagree, the bank legally honors the written amount. Always double-check both before signing.

Let the App Handle It

Tired of writing fractions by hand? Download QuickCheck for free on iOS and Android to write, print, and track every check from your phone — with a built-in checkbook register that balances itself.

How to Fill Out a Check for Cents: Real Examples