Last Reviewed: September 2026 | Valid for all Indian banks — SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis, Canara, Union Bank
In this post find What is a cancelled cheque and Examples of Cancelled cheques.What is a Cancelled Cheque Leaf
You can prove that you have an account with a specific bank by presenting the cancelled check as proof. In many instances, you will be required to provide a cancelled check for your bank account details to be validated.
What is a cancellation cheque?
You are not required to sign the check that has been cancelled. The voided check will be utilized to collect information such as the account number, the account holder’s name, the MICR code, the bank and branch names, and the IFSC code. It is important to keep in mind, however, that the line or the word “CANCELLED” that appears on your cancelled check should not obscure the details of the check. This cancelled check is not valid and neither you nor anyone else will be able to withdraw money using this check because it is the only proof that you have an account.
How do I write a check that has been cancelled?
It is not difficult to write a check that has been cancelled. It is not necessary to provide any specific details. If you want to write a check that has been cancelled, you need to keep in mind the following points: 1) Please use a fresh cheque. 2) You are not permitted to write any information on the check, including the recipient’s name, the amount, or their signature. 3) Write the word “CANCELLED” in all capital letters between two lines that are parallel to one another. 4) Ensure that the parallel documents do not conceal any vital pieces of information, including the account number, IFS code, MICR code, account holder name, bank name, and location.
When do you need a cancelled cheque?
In the following circumstances, you might be required to submit a cancelled check: EMI : When it comes to paying for a high-priced item or a technological device, the most popular method of doing so is through equivalent monthly instalments, or EMI for short. Even on loans such as mortgages, car loans, student loans, and personal loans, individuals are required to make monthly payments in the form of instalments. In order to initiate the process of making monthly payments, you are required to present a cancelled check as evidence that you have a bank account. Mutual Funds: In order to invest in either the stock market or mutual funds, you will need to open a Demat account. When opening an account with the company, you might be asked to provide a copy of a cancelled check, as a means of establishing ownership over the bank account that will be used to make deposits. In accordance with Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines, a cancelled check is required. Provident Fund Withdrawal: When you want to withdraw money from your EPF, companies typically require that you provide a cancelled check. Electronic Clearance Service (ECS): An electronic clearance service for any transaction that you decide to carry out. Every month, there will be a cash withdrawal taken out of the account, and in order for the bank to process it, you will need to provide the institution with a cancelled check. In this scenario, you will need to establish a system that provides electronic clearance. Insurance Policies: When selecting an insurance policy, certain organizations demand a cancellation check from the individual who is willing to purchase such a policy. Always make sure that your signature is not affixed to the cancelled check; if it is, it may be easy for fraudsters to get their hands on your money. Nevertheless, if a signature on the check leaf is required, a statement or declaration should be made in support of this requirement.Cancelled check Images
How to write someone a Cheque
This tutorial will demonstrate how simple it is to write a check by walking you through each step in detail.Cheque Date
Date: The date and time of today should be written in the upper right-hand corner. The date of today should be used in the majority of situations because doing so enables both you and the recipient to maintain accurate records. You also have the option of postdating the check, although the results of this action are not always what you anticipate they will be.Payee Name
Payee: In the space designated for “Pay to the order of,” write the name of the individual or organization that is receiving payment from you. Because this information must be correct, if you are unsure of what to write, you may find it necessary to inquire as to “Who do I make the check out to?”Cheque Amount
Amount expressed as a number: Fill out the amount of your payment in the little box that is located on the right-hand side of the page. Put your first letter as far to the left as you can when you start writing.Cheque Amount in Words
Amount in words: To prevent fraud and misunderstanding, the amount should be written out using words. This will be the final amount that you are responsible to pay. If the numeric form of the amount that you entered in the previous step is different from the amount that you wrote with words, the amount that you wrote with words will be considered the amount of your check for legal purposes. Employ only capital letters, which are more difficult to change.Account Holder Signature
Signature: Make sure that your signature is legible and placed on the check in the bottom-right corner. Keep your name and signature consistent with what the bank has on file. This step is essential because a check that does not have a signature attached to it will not be valid.Note
Memo (or “For”) line: Feel free to include a note if you’d like. This step is entirely discretionary and will have no bearing on how the bank processes your check. If you need to remind yourself of the reason you wrote the check, the memo line is a good place to do so. It is also possible that this is the space in which to write information that your payee will use in order to process your payment (or find your account if anything gets misplaced). For more updates, Follow us on Facebook and YouTube. Related Posts:- NACH Full form in banking
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What Information Does a Cancelled Cheque Contain?
A cancelled cheque reveals these banking details which is why financial institutions accept it as proof:
| Detail | Where Found on Cheque | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Account Holder Name | Pre-printed at top left | Confirms identity of account owner |
| Bank Account Number | Printed at bottom of cheque | Unique account identifier for transfers |
| IFSC Code | Printed on cheque face | Identifies the specific bank branch for NEFT/RTGS |
| MICR Code | Magnetic ink numbers at bottom | Used for cheque clearing and ECS mandates |
| Bank Name and Branch | Pre-printed on cheque | Confirms which bank and branch |
| Cheque Number | Top right corner | Not relevant for cancelled cheque and ignored by banks |
How to Cancel a Cheque Correctly Step by Step
- Take a blank cheque from your chequebook and do not fill in any amount date or payee name.
- Using a blue or black ink pen draw two parallel diagonal lines across the full width of the cheque.
- Write CANCELLED in bold capital letters between the two parallel lines.
- Ensure all pre-printed details remain clearly visible including account number IFSC code name and bank name.
- Do NOT write a signature amount date or payee name on the cancelled cheque.
- Submit or upload as required and keep a photocopy for your records.
When Is a Cancelled Cheque Required 12 Use Cases
| Use Case | Who Asks For It | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| KYC Verification | Banks NBFCs brokers | Verify bank account ownership |
| Salary Account Setup | Employer or HR department | Ensure salary reaches correct account |
| Home or Personal Loan EMI | Bank or NBFC | Set up automatic EMI deduction via ECS/NACH |
| EPF/PF Withdrawal | EPFO Employee Provident Fund | Confirm bank account for PF transfer |
| Insurance Policy | LIC private insurers | Premium auto-debit and claim settlement |
| Mutual Fund Investment | AMC SEBI-registered platforms | Link bank account for SIP or lump sum |
| Demat or Trading Account | Stock broker Zerodha Groww etc | Mandatory KYC requirement by SEBI |
| ECS or NACH Mandate | Any lender or subscription service | Auto-debit setup for recurring payments |
| Income Tax Refund | Income Tax Department | Credit refund to correct bank account |
| Government Schemes | PM-Kisan LPG subsidy PAHAL solar schemes | Direct benefit transfer to correct account |
| Fixed or Recurring Deposit | Bank or Post Office | Link savings account for maturity payout |
| Credit Card Application | Banks and card issuers | Verify billing account for payment setup |
Can You Submit a Digital or Online Cancelled Cheque?
Yes many institutions now accept a scanned or photographed cancelled cheque uploaded online. Here is how to do it correctly:
- Cancel the cheque physically using the steps above.
- Photograph it in good lighting and ensure all details are clearly readable.
- Scan as PDF or JPEG at minimum 200 DPI resolution.
- Ensure the image is not blurred cropped or has any details hidden.
- Upload as required and most platforms accept PDF or JPG formats under 2MB.
Important: Never hide or blur any information when uploading a cancelled cheque. Submit only to trusted verified institutions including banks SEBI-registered platforms EPFO and licensed insurers.
Can One Cancelled Cheque Be Used Multiple Times?
Yes. One cancelled cheque can be reused for multiple verifications including salary setup mutual fund KYC EPF and loan applications as long as your bank account remains active and details have not changed. Banks and institutions only verify the printed details and the cheque number itself is ignored for cancelled cheque purposes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting a Cancelled Cheque
- Signing the cheque is unnecessary and can create confusion. Sign only if specifically requested.
- Using red or pencil to cancel may cause rejection. Always use blue or black ink pen.
- Hiding account details by covering or blurring account number or IFSC makes it invalid.
- Using a cheque from a closed account is not accepted. Must be from an active bank account.
- Submitting to unverified parties is risky. Only provide to licensed RBI-regulated institutions.
- Poor image quality when uploading causes rejection. Ensure clear readable images only.
- Filling in any amount or date is wrong. A cancelled cheque must be blank except for CANCELLED text.
Is a Cancelled Cheque Safe to Share Security Tips
A cancelled cheque cannot be used to withdraw money or make payments. However it contains sensitive banking information. Follow these security rules:
- Share only with RBI-regulated banks SEBI-registered brokers licensed insurers and government departments.
- Keep a record of where you submitted your cancelled cheque and for what purpose.
- When submitting physically write the purpose on the cheque such as For KYC verification only.
- Never share with unknown individuals unverified websites or on social media.
- Never share via WhatsApp with strangers as this is a common fraud tactic.
- Do not post images of your cancelled cheque publicly online.
A cancelled cheque is a blank cheque with two parallel lines drawn across it and the word CANCELLED written between them. It cannot be used for any payment or withdrawal but is used as proof of bank account details for KYC verification loan applications EPF withdrawal salary setup insurance and mutual fund investments.
No. You do not need to sign a cancelled cheque. A cancelled cheque is only for verification of your bank account details and does not require a signature. Sign it only if the specific institution or bank explicitly asks for your signature on the cancelled cheque.
Always use a blue or black ink pen to cancel a cheque. Banks and financial institutions may reject cancelled cheques marked in red ink pencil or other colours. Draw two parallel lines clearly across the cheque and write CANCELLED in capital letters between them using blue or black ink only.
Yes. One cancelled cheque can be submitted for multiple purposes such as salary account setup EPF withdrawal mutual fund KYC and loan applications as long as your bank account remains active and the details are unchanged. Banks only verify the printed account number IFSC code and name and the cheque number is ignored.
A cancelled cheque shows your account holder name bank account number IFSC code MICR code bank name and branch details. These details are pre-printed on the cheque and are what institutions use to verify your bank account. The cheque number is visible but is generally not used for verification.
A cancelled cheque cannot be misused for withdrawals or payments. However it contains sensitive banking details so share only with RBI-regulated banks SEBI-registered brokers licensed insurers EPFO and government departments. Never share on social media or with unknown parties. When submitting physically write the purpose on it such as For KYC verification only.
Yes. Most banks and financial institutions now accept a scanned PDF or JPEG photograph of a cancelled cheque uploaded online. Ensure the image is clear all details are visible minimum 200 DPI resolution and file size is under 2MB. Do not blur crop or hide any details when uploading a digital cancelled cheque.
EPFO requires a cancelled cheque to verify that the bank account details provided belong to the EPF member. This ensures that provident fund money is transferred to the correct account. Without a valid cancelled cheque the EPF withdrawal request may be rejected or delayed.
Cancelled Cheque for Specific Banks — SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis 2026
The process of writing a cancelled cheque is identical for all Indian banks. Here is what a cancelled cheque looks like for the most common banks:
- SBI cancelled cheque: Draw two parallel lines across your SBI chequebook leaf and write CANCELLED. Your SBI account number, IFSC code (SBIN0XXXXXX), MICR code, and branch name are visible at the bottom.
- HDFC Bank cancelled cheque: Same process — HDFC cheque shows account number, IFSC (HDFC0XXXXXX), and branch. HDFC cancelled cheque is commonly required for salary account setup and home loan EMI.
- ICICI Bank cancelled cheque: ICICI chequebook cancelled cheque shows IFSC (ICIC0XXXXXX). Commonly required for Zerodha, Groww, and mutual fund KYC.
- Axis Bank cancelled cheque: Axis Bank cancelled cheque (UTIB0XXXXXX IFSC) is commonly required for insurance premium auto-debit and NPS account setup.
- Canara Bank cancelled cheque: Cancel any Canara chequebook leaf the same way. Required for EPF withdrawal and government scheme DBT.
Key point: A cancel cheque photo or scanned cancel cheque image is now accepted by most banks and SEBI-registered platforms for digital KYC. Ensure the cancelled check image is clear, well-lit, and all details readable.
Looking for a sample cancelled cheque or cancelled cheque format? The images above show real cancelled cheque samples from Indian banks. A sample cancelled cheque always has two parallel lines with CANCELLED written between them — no signature, no amount, no date filled in.
Cancelled Cheque vs Cheque — Key Differences
| Feature | Regular Cheque | Cancelled Cheque |
|---|---|---|
| Used for payment | Yes | No |
| Requires signature | Yes — mandatory | No — do not sign |
| Amount filled | Yes | No — leave blank |
| Purpose | Transfer money | Proof of bank account |
| Can be misused | Yes if stolen | No — cannot withdraw money |
| Validity | 3 months from date | No expiry — valid as long as account is active |
Cancelled Cheque for NRI Customers — UAE, Gulf, Kerala 2026
- NRI customers with NRE or NRO accounts can provide a cancelled cheque from their Indian NRE/NRO account for KYC verification
- NRI cancelled cheque is required for: mutual fund investments from UAE, NPS account, insurance premium setup, and EPF withdrawal
- If you do not have an Indian chequebook while in UAE or Gulf, request your bank to courier a chequebook to your Indian address or use a bank account statement as alternative proof
- Many platforms now accept a scanned digital cancelled cheque uploaded online — useful for Kerala NRIs managing finances from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman
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Frequently Asked Questions — Cancelled Cheque 2026
What is a cancelled cheque and how does it look?
A cancelled cheque is a blank cheque with two parallel lines drawn across it and the word CANCELLED written in capital letters between those lines using blue or black ink. It cannot be used for any payment but shows your bank account number, IFSC code, MICR code, account holder name, and bank branch details. These details are used by banks and institutions to verify your bank account.
How to write a cancelled cheque correctly in 2026?
Take a blank cheque from your chequebook. Using blue or black ink pen draw two parallel diagonal lines across the full width of the cheque. Write CANCELLED in bold capital letters between the two lines. Do not fill any amount, date, payee name, or signature. Ensure all pre-printed details including account number, IFSC code, and bank name remain clearly visible.
Is a cancel cheque photo or scanned image accepted by banks?
Yes. Most banks, SEBI-registered brokers, insurers, and EPFO now accept a scanned PDF or JPEG photograph of a cancelled cheque for digital KYC. The cancelled check image must be clear, well-lit, and all details readable. Ensure minimum 200 DPI resolution and file size under 2MB. Never blur or crop any details in the cancelled cheque image.
Do I need to sign a cancelled cheque?
No. You do not need to sign a cancelled cheque. Sign it only if the specific institution explicitly asks for your signature. An unsigned cancelled cheque is the standard and accepted format across all Indian banks, EPFO, insurance companies, and SEBI-registered platforms.
When is a cancelled cheque required in India?
A cancelled cheque is required for KYC verification, salary account setup, home or personal loan EMI via ECS or NACH, EPF or PF withdrawal from EPFO, insurance policy premium auto-debit, mutual fund or Demat account opening, income tax refund bank details, government scheme DBT registration, and fixed deposit maturity payout setup.
Can one cancelled cheque be used for multiple purposes?
Yes. One cancelled cheque can be submitted for multiple purposes such as salary setup, EPF withdrawal, mutual fund KYC, and loan applications as long as your bank account remains active and details are unchanged. Keep photocopies of submitted cancelled cheques for your records.
Which pen colour should I use to cancel a cheque?
Always use blue or black ink pen to cancel a cheque. Banks and financial institutions may reject cancelled cheques marked in red ink, pencil, or other colours. Draw two clear parallel lines across the cheque and write CANCELLED in capital letters between them using blue or black ink only.
Can NRI customers in UAE submit a cancelled cheque for Indian bank KYC?
Yes. NRI customers in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and other Gulf countries can provide a cancelled cheque from their Indian NRE or NRO account for KYC verification. Most platforms accept a scanned digital cancelled cheque uploaded online — useful for Kerala NRIs managing investments, mutual funds, insurance, and EPF from abroad.
Related: How to Write a Cheque in India 2026 — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
