Specifying the monetary amount on a financial instrument requires both numerical and written forms to ensure accuracy and prevent fraudulent alterations. For instance, when the amount is $50.00, the numerical box should clearly display “50.00,” and the corresponding line should read “Fifty and 00/100”. This dual representation serves as a safeguard.
This practice, while seemingly simple, plays a crucial role in banking security. The written form is generally considered the definitive value, overriding the numerical figure in case of discrepancy. This offers protection against unintentional errors or deliberate attempts to change the indicated sum. Historically, requiring both forms significantly reduced instances of check fraud and maintained the integrity of financial transactions.
