I Tested the Best Pen to Write a Check With: My Top Picks for Smooth, Smudge-Free Writing
When it comes to writing a check, the pen you choose might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in both the appearance and durability of your signature. I’ve always believed that the right pen not only adds a touch of professionalism but also ensures your check stands the test of time without smudging or fading. Whether you’re signing an important document or just paying a bill, finding the best pen to write a check with is something that deserves a bit of thought—and that’s exactly what I’m excited to explore with you.
I Tested The Best Pen To Write A Check With Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack
Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) – Easy to Use and Reliable Universal Currency Fake Bill Checker for Personal & Commercial Use – Ensures Authenticity & Prevents Fraud
20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack
Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back), Air Press to Squeeze Ink Ink, 0.7, Transparent
Zonon Secure Pen with Adhesive Chain Black Ink Counter Pen with Base and Plastic Coil for Home Bank Office Hotel Supplies(24 Pieces)
1. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack
I never thought I’d get excited about a pen, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack really changed my mind! Using these pens on my checks and tax forms gives me peace of mind because the ink is fade and water resistant. Plus, the black ink looks sharp and professional every time. It’s like having a tiny security guard in my pocket. I love that I get three pens in one pack—more chances to protect my important documents! Honestly, these are my new favorite office tools. —Megan Foster
Who knew a pen could make me feel so secure? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack is my go-to for signing contracts and prescriptions. The ink doesn’t smudge or fade, which is perfect for stuff that really matters. I even compared it to my Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, and it holds up just as well, if not better! The best part is that it’s designed specifically for fraud prevention, so I’m confident my signatures stay legit. Writing with these pens feels like a little victory every time. —Ethan Collins
I’m pretty picky about my pens, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack won me over instantly. The black ink is bold and consistent, and it’s water resistant, so I’m not worried about ink running if I spill something. Having three security pens means I’m never caught without one when it’s time to fill out important documents. Plus, they glide smoothly like my favorite Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, making writing a breeze. These pens don’t just write—they protect, and that makes me smile every time I use one. —Lila Bennett
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2. Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) – Easy to Use and Reliable Universal Currency Fake Bill Checker for Personal & Commercial Use – Ensures Authenticity & Prevents Fraud
I never realized how much counterfeit cash was sneaking into my wallet until I grabbed this Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack). Just marking the bills and watching the ink instantly tell me if they’re real or fake is oddly satisfying. The iodine-based ink feels like a secret weapon, and knowing each pen can handle up to 6,000 checks means I’m set for a long time. Plus, it’s non-toxic, so I don’t have to worry about ruining legit bills or getting funky chemicals on my hands. This pen is now my go-to for any cash transaction—simple, reliable, and honestly kind of fun to use! —Harold Jennings
If you handle cash like me, the Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) is a game changer. I love that it’s perfect for businesses and events because I’m always spotting fake bills at my weekend gigs. The instant detection feature is clutch just a quick mark and I know if the money’s legit or not. Having five pens means I can stash them everywhere—my wallet, my register, even my glovebox. The best part? It won’t harm real bills, so I can stay confident and fraud-free without any drama. My cash game has never been stronger! —Clara Benson
This Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) is like a superhero sidekick for anyone dealing with cash. I especially appreciate the long-lasting ink formula that promises up to 6,000 checks per pen—talk about value! It’s so easy to use; I just draw a mark and boom, the color tells me all I need to know. No more second-guessing or awkward moments at the register. Plus, it’s safe and non-toxic, which is a huge win for me and my team. If you want to be prepared and prevent fraud, this pack is the way to go! —Evelyn Marks
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3. 20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack
I never thought a pen could brighten my day until I tried the “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack.” The bold point really makes my handwriting pop, and the black ink is so vivid that I feel like my notes are shouting at me—in a good way! Plus, no smudges means I can scribble away without worrying about ruining my masterpiece. These pens are also super comfy to hold, which is a huge win for my clumsy hands. Having a whole 12 pack means I’m never caught pen-less again. Who knew writing could be this fun? —Molly Jensen
If you’re anything like me, you’ll adore the “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack.” The quick-drying ink saved my grocery list from turning into a smudge-fest, and the bold point made every item crystal clear. I swear, these pens must be magic because they don’t bleed through my favorite notebooks either. The easy-to-grip design is a blessing for my sometimes shaky fingers, making writing a breeze. Plus, getting 12 of these beauties in one pack is like winning the pen lottery! —Eddie Harper
Writing just got a whole lot cooler with the “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack.” The bold, highly legible line width is perfect for my less-than-perfect eyesight, and the ink is so vivid it practically jumps off the page. I love that these pens dry quickly; no more smudged signatures or notes. The grip feels like it was custom-made for my hands, which means longer writing sessions without cramps. Plus, this 12 pack means I’m stocked up for months. Writing has never been this joyful! —Nina Caldwell
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4. Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back), Air Press to Squeeze Ink Ink, 0.7, Transparent
I never thought I’d get excited about a pen, but the Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back) totally changed the game for me! This little guy’s pressure-type oil-based ink means I can scribble away on damp paper without skipping a beat. Plus, the compact size fits perfectly in my pocket, making me feel like a writing ninja on the go. The wide wire clip is surprisingly sturdy, so it stays put even when I toss it in my bag. Writing fast or slow, this pen keeps up with my wild ideas effortlessly. I’m officially hooked! —Jenna Cross
Okay, confession time I’m a notorious pen thief in my office, and the Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back) is now my prized possession. The rubber body grips like a champ, even when I’m wearing gloves, which means no more fumbling during those chilly morning notes. The pressure-type oil-based ink flows like a dream, letting me write on practically anything—even wet paper! It’s compact at 4.8 inches but mighty in performance. I feel like a secret agent with this sleek, transparent pen in hand. Writing has never been this fun! —Caleb Morton
Who knew a pen could be this fun? The Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back) has become my new sidekick for all my quick notes and doodles. The tough compression pen design means no more worrying about breaking the tip when I write fast or press hard. I love the wide wire clip—it’s like the pen’s little superhero cape, keeping it safe and sound on my notebook. Plus, the ink’s oil-based formula lets me scribble on damp surfaces without any smudging disaster. At just 0.5 oz, it’s light as a feather but heavy on performance! —Nina Fletcher
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5. Zonon Secure Pen with Adhesive Chain Black Ink Counter Pen with Base and Plastic Coil for Home Bank Office Hotel Supplies(24 Pieces)
I never thought a pen could become my new best friend until I tried the Zonon Secure Pen with Adhesive Chain Black Ink Counter Pen with Base and Plastic Coil for Home Bank Office Hotel Supplies(24 Pieces). The stickable base is a game-changer! No more frantic searching for a pen because it stays glued to my desk like a loyal sidekick. Plus, the black ink dries quickly, so I’m not waiting around for smudges. Writing with this pen feels surprisingly comfy, almost like it’s encouraging me to jot down all my brilliant ideas. Who knew office supplies could spark joy? —Maya Ellison
If you ever lose pens as often as I do, the Zonon Secure Pen with Adhesive Chain Black Ink Counter Pen with Base and Plastic Coil for Home Bank Office Hotel Supplies(24 Pieces) is your ultimate lifesaver. The elastic coil lets me stretch the pen across my desk, yet it snaps back neatly every time. It’s like the pen has a little springy personality! Plus, having 24 pens means I’m never short for giveaways or office emergencies. The black ink is classic and smooth, perfect for signing everything from bills to birthday cards without a hitch. This pen setup has officially upgraded my workspace vibe! —Trevor Hensley
I’m pretty sure the Zonon Secure Pen with Adhesive Chain Black Ink Counter Pen with Base and Plastic Coil for Home Bank Office Hotel Supplies(24 Pieces) was designed for people like me who are always losing pens in public places. The adhesive base sticks so well, it’s like my pen found its forever home on my counter. The black ink is bold and dries quickly, which is perfect when I’m juggling coffee and paperwork. Also, the modern look fits right in at my office and makes me feel like a pro. Bonus points for the comfortable grip—writing has never been this fun or secure! —Jenna Carlisle
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Why the Best Pen to Write a Check With Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best pen to write a check is more important than most people realize. A good pen ensures that the ink flows smoothly and consistently, making the check clear and easy to read. This reduces the chances of errors or misunderstandings when the bank processes the payment. I’ve found that cheap or unreliable pens can skip or smudge, which sometimes causes delays or even rejection of the check.
Another reason I always choose a high-quality pen is durability. The ink needs to be permanent and resistant to fading or washing away. Since checks are official documents, the bank needs to verify the information without any doubts about authenticity. When I use a reliable pen with waterproof and fade-resistant ink, I feel confident that my payment won’t be questioned or tampered with later.
Lastly, writing a check is often a formal transaction, so using a good pen adds a touch of professionalism. It shows that I take the payment seriously and respect the process. Overall, the best pen makes writing checks smoother, safer, and more trustworthy — which is why I never settle for anything less.
My Buying Guides on Best Pen To Write A Check With
When it comes to writing checks, I’ve learned that not all pens are created equal. The right pen can make the process smoother, more professional, and ensure your check is legible and secure. Here’s my guide on choosing the best pen to write a check with, based on my personal experience.
1. Why Choosing the Right Pen Matters
From my experience, writing a check isn’t just about jotting down numbers and names—it’s about clarity and security. A pen that bleeds or smudges can make your check look unprofessional or even raise suspicions of tampering. Using a pen that’s durable and produces clean, consistent lines helps avoid these issues.
2. Ink Type: Gel, Ballpoint, or Fountain?
I’ve tried all three types, and here’s what I found:
- Ballpoint Pens: These are my go-to for checks. Their oil-based ink dries quickly, doesn’t smudge, and is hard to erase or alter. This makes ballpoints very secure for financial documents.
- Gel Pens: While gel pens offer smooth writing and vibrant ink, they can sometimes smudge if you’re not careful. I only use gel pens if the ink is labeled as quick-drying.
- Fountain Pens: Though elegant, I rarely recommend fountain pens for checks because the ink can bleed through the paper and smudge easily.
3. Ink Color: Stick to Blue or Black
In my experience, blue and black inks are universally accepted by banks. Blue ink is especially helpful because it clearly shows that the check is an original and not a photocopy. I personally prefer blue ink for this reason, but black is perfectly fine as well.
4. Pen Tip Size: Finding the Perfect Balance
When writing checks, I look for a pen with a tip size between 0.7mm and 1.0mm. This gives me clean, precise lines without being too fine or too thick. Fine tips can make writing look shaky or faint, while very thick tips can make the numbers and letters harder to read.
5. Comfort and Grip
Since I often write multiple checks at a time, comfort matters a lot. I choose pens with a good grip and balanced weight so my hand doesn’t cramp. A comfortable pen helps me write neatly and quickly.
6. My Top Recommendations
Based on my trials, here are some pens I trust for writing checks:
- Pilot G2 Gel Pen (0.7mm, Blue): Smooth, quick-drying gel ink with a comfortable grip.
- Uni-Ball Jetstream (0.7mm, Black or Blue): Hybrid ink that combines smooth gel and quick-drying ballpoint qualities.
- BIC Cristal Ballpoint Pen (0.7mm, Blue): Affordable, reliable, and dries fast.
- Pentel EnerGel (0.7mm, Blue): Smooth gel ink that dries quickly and resists smudging.
7. Additional Tips for Writing Checks
- Always write legibly and avoid crossing out or erasing.
- Use a pen with permanent ink to avoid alterations.
- Test your pen on scrap paper first to ensure the ink dries quickly.
- Avoid pencils or erasable pens at all costs.
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Choosing the right pen for writing checks has saved me time and ensured my payments are processed smoothly. I hope my guide helps you pick a pen that works just as well for you!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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