Request a voided check in person at your branch or by phone

A voided check is a blank check you've marked "VOID" across the front. Wells Fargo will print one for you at no charge. The fastest way is to walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your debit card or ID and ask a teller to void a check from your account. They'll hand you one on the spot—usually within five minutes.

If you can't visit a branch, call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 and ask them to mail you a voided check. They'll send it to the address on file, which takes five to seven business days. Have your account number and routing number ready when you call.

You need a voided check most often to set up direct deposit for payroll or government benefits, or to authorize automatic bill payments. Banks use the routing number and account number printed on the check to confirm you own the account.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Wells Fargo branch with ID to get a voided check printed immediately at no cost.
  • Call 1-800-869-3557 to request one by mail if you cannot visit a branch; delivery takes five to seven business days.
  • Write "VOID" in large letters across the front of the check before you use it to prevent accidental payment.
  • Your employer or biller will use the routing and account numbers on the voided check to set up direct deposit or automatic payments.
  • Keep a copy of the voided check for your records once the setup is complete.

What information is printed on a voided check

The voided check contains three pieces of information your employer or biller needs: your account number (usually on the right side of the bottom line), your routing number (on the left side of the bottom line), and your name and address as they appear in Wells Fargo's system.

The routing number for Wells Fargo varies by region and account type. Most Wells Fargo checking accounts use routing number 121000248, but some branches use different numbers. The voided check will show the correct routing number for your specific account, so using the check itself is more reliable than looking up a general number online.

When you write "VOID" on the check, use a dark pen and write across the entire front in large letters. This makes it impossible to cash or deposit, which is the whole point—you're proving you own the account without risking the check being misused.

Why employers and billers ask for a voided check

A voided check serves as proof that you own the account and that the routing and account numbers are correct. When you hand over a check with your name printed on it, the employer or biller knows the account belongs to you and not to someone else.

Direct deposit systems and automatic bill payment systems need exact routing and account numbers to work. A single digit wrong and the money goes to the wrong place or bounces back. A voided check eliminates typing errors because the numbers are already printed.

Some employers will accept a bank statement or a letter from Wells Fargo instead of a voided check. If you don't want to use a check, ask your employer or biller whether they'll take one of those alternatives.

Alternatives if you don't have checks

If you opened a Wells Fargo account online or requested no checks, you may not have any checks to void. You have three options: order checks from Wells Fargo (which takes one to two weeks), ask Wells Fargo to print a voided check at the branch, or provide your employer with a bank statement and routing number instead.

The branch option is fastest. Walk in with your ID and tell the teller you need a voided check but don't have any checks on hand. They can print one from their system immediately. There is no charge for this service.

If your employer or biller will accept a bank statement, log into your Wells Fargo online account, download your most recent statement, and send that along with a note stating your routing number (121000248 for most accounts, but check your statement to be sure). This works for direct deposit and bill payment setups at many employers and utilities.

What to do after you receive the voided check

Once you have the voided check, write "VOID" across the front in dark ink before you hand it to your employer or biller. Do this even if the teller already marked it—add your own marking to be absolutely clear the check cannot be cashed.

Keep a photocopy or photo of the voided check for your records. If there's ever a dispute about whether you provided the correct account number, you'll have proof of what you submitted. Store it with your other financial documents.

After your employer or biller confirms they've set up direct deposit or automatic payments, you can throw away the voided check itself. The copy is enough for your records.

Troubleshooting: voided check problems

If Wells Fargo tells you they cannot print a voided check because your account is too new, wait a few business days and try again. Some accounts need to be open for at least one business day before checks can be printed.

If you ordered checks but they haven't arrived and you need a voided check now, go to the branch. They can print one immediately without waiting for your ordered checks to come in the mail.

If your employer says the routing number on your voided check is wrong, call Wells Fargo customer service to confirm. Routing numbers do vary by region and account type. The teller can tell you whether your check shows the correct number for your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a picture of a voided check instead of the physical check?

Most employers and billers will take a photo or PDF of a voided check, especially if you're setting up direct deposit online. Ask your employer first—some require the physical check, but many don't. If they want the original, you can mail it or drop it off in person.

Do I have to pay for a voided check from Wells Fargo?

No. Wells Fargo prints voided checks at no charge whether you get one at the branch or request it by mail. If you order a full pad of checks, there is a fee, but a single voided check is free.

How long does it take to get a voided check by mail?

Five to seven business days from the date you call. If you need one faster, visit a branch in person and get one the same day.

What if I void a check by mistake and need to use it?

Once you write "VOID" on a check, it cannot be deposited or cashed. Get a new check from your checkbook or request another one from Wells Fargo. Do not try to erase or cross out the "VOID" marking.

Can I get a voided check for an account that's not in my name?

No. Wells Fargo will only print a voided check for the account holder or an authorized signer on the account. If you're setting up direct deposit for someone else, they need to request the voided check themselves.