On lower right side of check, make sure you write your signature. Also, take note of check number, date, payee, and amount in check stub or check ledger at front of your checkbook. Now subtract amount of your check so you can calculate how much money you have left in your account after check clears.

Here are some extra tips for writing checks: know how much money you have in your bank account at any given time, as you will be charged a fee for any checks that bounce due to insufficient funds. Also, if you aren't very good at keeping records, use a checkbook that makes an automatic carbon copy of checks you write. This will come in handy when you're busy or rushing to make payments.

When choosing a bank account it is crucial to know what services are important to you. Do you want low fees, access to an ATM machine, good customer service by phone and Internet banking? Or maybe you simply want to have an account with a bank that is located conveniently close to home? These are all key questions you must ask yourself before choosing a bank.

Once you've chosen a bank, all you have to do is go to branch and fill out an application form. Most of time you also have to provide bank with an initial deposit for account as well. Then you are given a bank number and an ATM card (if you chose this option). If you have opened a checking account you will also be given a book of checks.