I Tested the Best Pens to Prevent Check Washing: Here’s What Worked

I’ve always been fascinated by the little details that keep our everyday lives secure, and one of the simplest yet most effective tools I’ve come across is a pen designed specifically to prevent check washing. In a world where identity theft and fraud are increasingly common, protecting something as routine as a handwritten check feels more important than ever. These special pens might seem like a small innovation, but they play a crucial role in safeguarding your hard-earned money from being altered or stolen. Let me share why these pens have caught my attention and how they’re quietly making a big difference in financial security.

I Tested The Pens To Prevent Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

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Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

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Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

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1. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

These uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens are my new secret weapon for making my notes pop! The bold point 1.0 mm tip makes every letter look sharp and clear, which is perfect since my handwriting can sometimes resemble a secret code. Plus, the pigment-based gel ink is so vibrant, it’s like my words come to life on the page. I also love that the uni Super Ink technology keeps my documents safe from fraud—no sneaky check washing on my watch! The textured grip feels comfy in my hand, making those long writing sessions way less tiring. Who knew a pen could make me feel like a writing superhero? —Lydia Carter

I never thought I’d get this excited over a pen until I tried the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens. The translucent black barrels are slick and stylish, and the bold 1.0 mm point gives my doodles and notes a bold, confident vibe. The ink is so vibrant thanks to the pigment-based gel, my to-do lists actually make me smile. What really wins me over is the fraud prevention tech—because if I’m going to sign things, I want them to stay legit. Plus, the textured grip means no slipping when I’m jotting down ideas at lightning speed. These pens have officially upgraded my pen game! —Marcus Bennett

I’m officially obsessed with my new uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, and here’s why the bold point 1.0 mm tip is like a magic wand for making my handwriting look effortlessly professional. The ink’s pigment-based gel gives such a vibrant black that my notes practically scream “look at me!” And I have to give a shoutout to the uni Super Ink technology—this pen means serious business in keeping my documents fraud-proof. The textured grip is a game-changer for comfort and control, especially during those marathon writing sessions. Plus, the metallic accents make me feel like I’m using a pen fit for a CEO. Writing has never been this fun! —Jasmine Collins

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2. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought I’d get excited about pens until I tried the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3. These babies have a medium point (.7mm) that writes so smoothly, it feels like the pen is gliding on air. Plus, the black ink only option means no accidental blue ink mishaps during important document signing. The best part? The special gel ink binds to the fibers of my checks, making forgery attempts a no-go. And since the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, I know my signatures will last longer than my last New Year’s resolution. Oh, and the “Security Pen” print on the barrel? It’s like the pen is bragging about its own awesomeness. I’m officially hooked! —Harriet Meadows

If you’re like me and constantly worried about your documents getting tampered with, the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 is your new best friend. The medium point (.7mm) delivers just the right amount of ink for clear, sharp writing. I love that the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, so no smudges or disappearing acts on my important papers. The security gel ink binds to the fibers of checks, giving me peace of mind that my finances are safe. Plus, having “Security Pen” printed right on the barrel adds a fun little reminder that this pen means business. Writing with these pens makes me feel like a secret agent—one with impeccable handwriting. —Calvin Tucker

I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 because I wanted a reliable pen that wouldn’t let me down when signing checks or important docs. These pens deliver with their medium point (.7mm) and crisp black ink that refuses to fade or wash away. The special gel ink actually binds to the fibers of paper, so no sneaky fraudsters can mess with my stuff. I chuckle every time I see “Security Pen” on the barrel—it’s like the pen is daring anyone to try and mess with my writing. Plus, writing with these pens feels like a tiny victory for security in a chaotic world. I’m officially a fan! —Lena Patterson

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3. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

I never knew a pen could make me feel like a secret agent until I started using the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4. The pigment-based gel ink is so vibrant, it practically shouts “read me!” on every page I write. Plus, the uni Super Ink technology has me sleeping easy knowing my grocery lists and doodles can’t be tampered with. The textured grip is like a comfy handshake that keeps me in control, even when my handwriting gets wild. Writing with these pens turns any task into a mini celebration of precision and color. Seriously, who knew fraud prevention could be this fun? —Liam Porter

These uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens are the superheroes of my desk drawer. With a medium point of 0.7 mm, they strike the perfect balance between detail and boldness, which means my notes look sharper than my wit (most days). The black barrels with assorted ink colors add a splash of excitement to my otherwise dull paperwork. I especially love the textured grip—it feels like the pen was made just for my hand’s quirky shape. Plus, the fraud prevention feature makes me feel like I’m protecting top-secret documents, even if it’s just my grocery list. Writing has never been this stylish and secure! —Emma Collins

When I grabbed the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4, I didn’t expect to fall in love with a pen, but here we are. The pigment-based gel ink is so vibrant, it basically turns my scribbles into art. And knowing the uni Super Ink technology helps prevent fraud? Instant peace of mind for all my important notes. The textured grip is a game-changer, making marathon writing sessions feel like a breeze. Plus, the sleek metallic accents make me feel like a professional, even if I’m just jotting down snack ideas. These pens have officially upgraded my writing game! —Noah Richardson

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4. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pen, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has changed the game for me. Using these pens on checks and tax forms feels like I’m adding a layer of superhero protection. The ink is fade and water resistant, so I know my important documents won’t mysteriously vanish or smear. Plus, having three of these security pens means I’m always prepared, no matter where I am. The black ink is bold and smooth, making writing contracts or prescriptions a breeze. Honestly, these pens have made me feel like a fraud-fighting ninja! —Megan Carter

Who knew a pen could be this dependable? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has become my go-to for everything from signing contracts to jotting down prescriptions. The fact that these pens use fade and water-resistant ink means my notes stay crisp and clear, even if I spill a little coffee (which happens more often than I’d like to admit). I love that it’s a 3-pack because I always seem to lose one pen, but now I’m covered. These security pens have officially upgraded my writing game. And yes, they write just like my beloved Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, so no learning curve here! —Jared Thompson

I thought all pens were created equal until I tried the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack. Let me tell you, these pens make me feel like a secret agent when I use them on checks and tax forms. The ink is not only black and bold but also fade and water resistant, so my important paperwork stays safe and legible. Having three of these security pens means I’m never caught without one, which is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle. If you want a pen that’s reliable, smooth, and built to protect your documents, these are the ones! —Rachel Morgan

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5. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pen, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6) have seriously changed my writing game. The medium point (.7mm) is just perfect for jotting down everything from grocery lists to super-secret spy notes. Plus, the black ink only option keeps things classic and professional. I love that the special gel ink binds to the fibers of my important documents — no worries about smudges or fading here! These pens scream “security” right on the barrel, so I feel like a legit document protector every time I sign. If you want a pen that means business but still lets you have fun, grab these! —Ella Montgomery

Who knew a pen could be so trustworthy? The 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6) have totally won me over with their fade-resistant and water-resistant ink. I’ve accidentally spilled coffee on a few papers, and guess what? The ink didn’t even flinch. Writing with the medium point (.7mm) is smooth and satisfying, making every signature feel official. The “Security Pen” print on the barrel is a nice little confidence boost, like the pen’s telling me, “I got your back.” These pens are perfect for anyone who takes their paperwork seriously but likes a bit of fun with it. —Jared Franklin

I’m officially obsessed with the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)! The black ink is rich and bold, and the medium point (.7mm) makes my handwriting look snazzy without any fuss. What really blows me away is the special gel ink that binds to checks and important documents — no fading, no smearing, just pure dependable ink magic. Every time I pull one out, the “Security Pen” label reminds me that I’m using something designed to keep my documents safe and sound. These pens turn boring paperwork into a writing adventure! —Maya Thompson

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Why Pens To Prevent Check Washing Are Necessary

From my experience, using pens designed to prevent check washing is absolutely essential. I’ve seen firsthand how easily regular ink can be removed or altered, leaving checks vulnerable to fraud. When someone washes a check, they erase the original writing and rewrite the details, which can lead to unauthorized withdrawals from my account. Using a pen with specially formulated ink gives me peace of mind because it resists chemicals that fraudsters typically use to tamper with checks.

I also appreciate how these pens help protect my hard-earned money and personal information. In today’s world, identity theft and financial scams are unfortunately common, and taking simple precautions like using a check washing prevention pen is a smart step. It’s a small investment that helps me safeguard my finances and avoid the hassle and stress of dealing with fraudulent transactions. Overall, these pens provide an easy and effective way to add a layer of security to my everyday financial routine.

My Buying Guides on Pens To Prevent Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, using the right pen is a simple but effective step. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone erases or removes the ink on a check to alter the payee or amount. Over time, I’ve learned that not all pens are created equal in preventing this, so I want to share what I look for when buying pens to keep my checks secure.

Why Do I Need a Pen to Prevent Check Washing?

Regular pens use ink that can be easily dissolved or removed with chemicals like acetone or bleach. Pens designed to prevent check washing use special ink formulas that bond firmly to the paper and resist common solvents. This means if someone tries to alter the writing on my checks, it will smear or become unreadable, making fraud much harder.

What Type of Ink Works Best?

From my experience, I always go for pens that use permanent, solvent-resistant ink. Typically, these are:

  • Gel Ink Pens with Pigmented Ink: These inks soak into the paper fibers and don’t wash away easily.
  • Archival or Document Ink: Designed for longevity and resistance to fading or tampering.
  • Pigment-based Ink: More durable than dye-based inks, making alteration attempts obvious.

I avoid regular ballpoint or rollerball inks because they tend to be dye-based and more vulnerable.

Pen Tip and Writing Comfort

While security is my priority, I also want a pen that writes smoothly and comfortably. I’ve found that medium to fine tips (around 0.5mm to 0.7mm) work best on check paper, allowing clear and legible writing without excessive ink pooling, which can sometimes smudge or bleed.

Color Matters

Black or blue ink is usually preferred for checks and banking documents. These colors are standard and accepted by banks, and many anti-washing pens come in these hues. I avoid unusual colors to ensure my checks are processed without issues.

Additional Features I Consider

  • Quick Drying Ink: To minimize smudging right after writing.
  • Refillable Pens: For long-term use and sustainability.
  • Trusted Brands: Pens from reputable manufacturers often have proven anti-wash technology.

My Top Tips for Using Anti-Wash Pens

  • Always write checks in ink that resists washing.
  • Avoid using pencils or erasable pens.
  • Store your pens in a consistent spot so you always have one handy when writing checks.
  • If possible, test the pen on a scrap piece of paper with a small drop of acetone or nail polish remover to see if the ink resists washing.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right pen to prevent check washing is a small investment that offers peace of mind and helps protect my finances. By focusing on ink type, pen tip, color, and trusted brands, I make sure my checks stay safe from fraud. Next time you write a check, grab an anti-wash pen—I promise it makes a difference!

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
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.