29/07/2025
In line with the new check design standards, asterisks are no longer required before the amount in figures on checks, and the new rule is effective July 1, 2025. This change is part of the Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC)'s Memo Circular No. 3814, efforts to standardize check formats and improve processing efficiency.
To better guide you, here are the things you need to keep in mind when filling out checks starting July 1.
Issue date - The issue date on the check must be filled out in month-day-year numerical format. No special characters like slash (/) and/or asterisk (*) should be included between the month, date, and year.
Payee - Indicate only one payee, it could be a person's name, a company, or the word "Cash." Avoid writing a combination of both, like "(Person's name) or Cash" as it will be deemed invalid.
Amount in figures - The amount must be written in numbers, separated by a comma (",") for hundreds, thousands, and millions, and a period (".") for centavos. (ex. 100,000.00) Do not put a peso sign or any symbols before and after the numeric account.
Amount in words - There are no restrictions with regards on symbols for this part, but it must match the amount in figures. You can also write it with or without the word "only." (ex. "***One Hundred Thousand Pesos***" or "One Hundred Thousand Pesos Only."
Signature - The signature must be placed on the designated box located in the lower right part of the check. The new check design includes two signature boxes. Both signatories may share one box. Signatures going outside the box are still acceptable..
What Should You Do?
-Update your check writing practice: Stop adding asterisks before and after the amount in figures.
-Inform staff and accounting personnel to follow the new format.
-Coordinate with your bank for any updated check templates or guidelines.
Remember that checks that don't follow the new format will not be accepted for deposit or clearing.
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