A void cheque is a standard cheque marked with "VOID" to prevent its use for transactions. It provides essential banking details—such as the account number, transit number, and institution number—needed for processes like direct deposits and automated payments.
If you’re setting up direct deposit or pre-authorized payments in Canada, chances are you’ve been asked for a void cheque. But what exactly is it? A void cheque is simply a regular paper cheque from your chequebook that has the word "VOID" written across it in large letters. By doing this, the cheque can’t be used to make a payment, but it still shows all the important banking details needed to set up electronic transfers.
It may seem a bit old-school, especially in our digital age, but void cheques are still commonly used by employers, landlords, and financial institutions across Canada. They provide an easy and reliable way to capture your banking info without risking an actual transaction.
The term "void" refers to the act of invalidating or rendering something legally unenforceable. In banking, a void cheque is one that is no longer usable for transactions, such as cashing or depositing funds.
Void Cheque Meaning
A void cheque is simply a regular paper cheque from your chequebook that has the word "VOID" written across it in large letters. By doing this, the cheque can’t be used to make a payment or withdrawals, but it still shows all the important banking details, such as account number, transit number, and institution number, which are often required for processes such as setting up direct deposits or pre-authorized payments.
Why Do Canadians Still Use Void Cheques?
Even though many Canadians rely on online banking and digital transfers, void cheques remain a standard requirement for several transactions. Here’s why they’re still in use:
Easy way to share bank details securely
Accepted by most employers and institutions
Used for setting up automatic payments
Required for direct deposits by some government agencies
What Information Does a Void Cheque Provide?
The bottom line of any cheque contains three essential banking numbers. These are:
Transit Number (5 digits): Identifies your local bank branch.
Institution Number (3 digits): Identifies your bank.
Account Number (up to 12 digits): Uniquely identifies your personal or business account.
Why Would You Need a Void Cheque?
A void cheque is a simple yet essential tool in modern banking, especially for Canadians who rely on efficient and secure financial transactions. There are several common scenarios where you might be asked to provide a void cheque:
Setting Up Direct Deposit for Your Paycheque or Government Benefits
Direct deposit is a popular method for receiving payments, whether from your employer or government programs like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) or Employment Insurance (EI). By providing a void cheque, you ensure that your funds are deposited directly into your bank account without delays or errors. This eliminates the need for physical cheques and trips to the bank, making payday hassle-free.
Authorizing Automatic Bill Payments
Many Canadians use automatic payments to manage recurring expenses such as utility bills, insurance premiums, rent, or subscription services. A void cheque allows service providers to withdraw the exact amount due from your account on the specified date. This ensures timely payments and helps you avoid late fees or service interruptions.
Linking Accounts Between Different Financial Institutions
If you have accounts at multiple banks or credit unions, you may need to link them for seamless transfers. A void cheque provides the necessary details, such as your account number, transit number, and institution number, to establish this connection securely.
Mortgage or Loan Payments via Pre-Authorized Debit
For homeowners and borrowers, pre-authorized debit is a convenient way to manage mortgage or loan payments. By submitting a void cheque, you authorize your lender to withdraw the agreed-upon amount directly from your account, ensuring that payments are made on time and reducing the risk of missed deadlines.
Ensuring Accuracy and Security
Providing a void cheque minimizes the risk of manual errors, such as mistyping your account number or other banking details. It also adds a layer of security, as the cheque is marked "VOID" to prevent unauthorized use. This makes it a reliable method for sharing your banking information.
Employer Onboarding Process
When starting a new job, employers often request a void cheque to set up direct deposit for your salary. This ensures that your pay is deposited accurately and promptly, avoiding any hiccups on payday.
In essence, a void cheque simplifies financial transactions and enhances security. It ensures that your money moves directly and securely between accounts, whether for receiving payments, making bill payments, or managing loans. By using a void cheque, you can streamline your financial processes and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your banking information is handled safely.
What If I Don't Have a Void Cheque for Direct Deposit?
Writing paper cheques is going out of style, and many people actually don't have cheques anymore. It's much more common to make payments or receive payments through debit cards or cash. If you don't have a void cheque to offer, it's not always the end of the world. Many companies are flexible enough that they are willing to set up payments in a different way.
Because the most important information is the routing number and account number, you may be able to provide this information without it being on a cheque. You will just want to make sure the information you provide is completely accurate. You may also be able to fill out a different form provided by the company or get a direct deposit form from your bank.
Where Can You Get a Void Cheque?
If you don’t have a chequebook handy, don’t worry. Most Canadian banks now offer a few ways to get a void cheque or its equivalent:
Online banking: Log into your account and look for an option like “Direct Deposit Form” or “Void Cheque.”
Mobile apps: Many bank apps let you download a pre-filled void cheque as a PDF.
In-person: Visit your branch and ask a teller to print one for you.
Chequebook: If you still use a traditional chequebook, just pull out a blank cheque and write "VOID" across it.
Banks like RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, and CIBC all provide void cheque downloads through their online platforms. It’s free and convenient, and the digital version works just as well as a physical one.
How to Void a Cheque Properly
Voiding a cheque is super easy, but you want to make sure you do it properly so it can’t be misused:
Take a blank cheque from your chequebook.
Write "VOID" in large capital letters across the front. Make sure it covers most of the cheque but doesn’t obscure the numbers at the bottom.
Don’t sign the cheque.
Avoid writing over the banking details (transit, institution, and account numbers).
You can use black or blue ink, and some people prefer using a permanent marker to prevent any tampering. Once the cheque is voided, it can’t be used to withdraw money from your account.
If you’re sending it by email or uploading it online, scan or take a clear photo of the void cheque, making sure all the key details are readable.
Alternatives to a Void Cheque
Not everyone uses paper cheques anymore, and that’s totally fair. Luckily, there are alternatives you can use in Canada:
Direct deposit or pre-authorized debit forms: These are official documents provided by your bank with all the necessary details.
Bank account confirmation letter: This is a letter from your bank confirming your account details. It’s often accepted in place of a void cheque.
Printout from online banking: Some companies accept a screenshot or PDF showing your transit, institution, and account numbers.
Always check with the organization you're dealing with to see what they accept. Many are happy with electronic documents and don’t require a traditional void cheque anymore.
Is It Safe to Send a Void Cheque?
Yes, it’s generally safe to provide a void cheque—just take the usual precautions. A void cheque doesn’t let anyone withdraw money from your account, but it does contain sensitive information.
Here are a few tips to stay safe:
Only share with trusted recipients, like your employer, landlord, or your child’s daycare.
Don’t post it online or share it publicly.
Use secure methods (encrypted email, secure upload forms) if sending it digitally.
Keep a copy for your records.
If you’re ever unsure, ask the organization why they need it and how they’ll protect your information. Most reputable Canadian institutions have strong privacy policies in place.
Can You Use a Digital Void Cheque?
Absolutely! In fact, many Canadian banks now encourage you to use digital void cheques. They’re faster, cleaner, and you don’t need to keep a chequebook around.
Digital void cheques usually come in the form of a downloadable PDF from your bank’s website or mobile app. They include the same details as a physical cheque and are widely accepted for things like direct deposit and pre-authorized payments.
You can:
Download it from online banking.
Print it if needed, or just email the PDF.
Use it repeatedly without having to void a new cheque each time.
For example:
TD: Under “Account Services,” look for “Void Cheque.”
RBC: Go to “Account Details” and click “Print Void Cheque.”
No, as long as it displays your transit, institution, and account numbers clearly and is marked “VOID.
Why Void Cheques Still Matter in Canada
While void cheques might feel like a throwback to a pre-digital era, they’re still part of the everyday financial landscape in Canada. Whether you’re starting a new job, paying your rent, or setting up a gym membership, having access to your banking info is key.
Thankfully, Canadian banks make it super easy to get your details—whether through a void cheque, a direct deposit form, or a digital document. If you don’t use cheques, don’t stress. There’s almost always another way.
Just remember to protect your banking info and only share it with people or organizations you trust. And if you’re ever unsure, give your bank a call—they’ll help you out.
If you're looking for more resources and tips on your finances, visit the Insurdinary blog or contact us!
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