Bank Fees
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Once a month, your bank will send you a list of checks you wrote, along with the amount, date, and any deposits or withdrawals you made. This is called a statement. Most of the time, banks keep track correctly, but occasionally they don't. To make sure you and the bank agree on how much money you spent and have left, you will need to balance your checkbook every month. Here's how:

1. Use the reconciliation form printed on the back of your bank statement to do your math.
2. Enter the ending balance as shown on the front of the statement.
3. List any deposits in your checkbook that do not appear on the bank statement,
4. Add the ending bank balance from the statement to the deposits you made that don't appear on the statement yet, and enter this subtotal in the space provided.
5. List all checks you wrote or other withdrawals you made that do not appear on the bank statement. Don't forget to include the fees that ATMs charge.
6. Subtract the total amount of the outstanding checks from the subtotal. The result should be the same as the balance shown in your checkbook register.

If you need additional help, ask the staff at the bank or credit union where you have your checking account.

Keeping Your Checks Safe
Checks that you haven't written can be stolen and forged. To keep money from disappearing out of your account, follow these safety procedures.

• Always keep your checks, ATM card, and checkbook in a safe location.
• Keep all deposit and ATM receipts for verification with your bank statement.
• Write ATM and electronic fund transfer transactions in your check register immediately. That way you won't overdraw your account or be charged penalty fees.
• Never sign a blank check, and never leave the payee line blank.
• Never have your Social Security number or telephone number preprinted on your checks. It increases the risk of identity theft.
• When you close an account, destroy any unused checks or deposit slips with a paper shredder.
• Avoid using abbreviated names when listing the payee of the check (e.g., J. Smith vs. John Smith).

In the event that your checkbook (and/or ATM card) is lost or stolen, contact the bank or credit union immediately to limit any liability of unauthorized transactions.

There is more information on keeping your money safe in Identity Theft.