How to Remove the Writing From a Check

A voided check can provide can provide people with information you would rather keep private. A check may have your signature and provide people with a rough estimate of the money you may have in your account. Cleaning the ink off a voided check adds another level of security to your finances. If someone comes across your discarded checks, they won't be able to copy your handwritten signature and they won't have any idea how much money you have in your checking account.

Advertisement

Step 1

Set the check face down on a flat surface. Rub the back of the check with a craft knife to remove indentations left by your pen. Even if you remove the ink, some crafty fraudster might check for the indents.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Fold a couple paper towels and set them on a worktable. Set the check on top of the paper towels. Don a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from the cleaning chemicals.

Advertisement

Step 3

Dip a cotton swab into a bottle of acetone. Wipe the cotton swab across the face of the check. Allow the check to dry and then swab it again.

Advertisement

Step 4

Continue to swab the check until the ink disappears completely. Hold it up to a light to verify that there is no ink left on the paper.

Tip

Cover the entire check in black ink if the acetone does not remove the ink entirely. Use a high-grade acetone rather than acetone you find in household products such as nail polish remover.

Things You'll Need

  • Craft knife

  • Paper towels

  • Rubber gloves

  • Cotton swab

  • Acetone

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement