I Tested the Best Pens to Write Checks and Prevent Washing: My Honest Review

AvatarByLindsey Lowery

I’ve always believed that a little extra caution can save you from a world of trouble—especially when it comes to managing your finances. One simple tool that often gets overlooked is the pen you use to write checks. It might seem trivial, but choosing the right pen can be a powerful step in protecting your money from fraud. Today, I want to share why the pen you pick matters so much in preventing check washing and how this small habit can make a big difference in keeping your hard-earned funds secure.

I Tested The Pen To Write Checks To Prevent Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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1. 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 excited about a pen, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack really changed my mind! The black ink is super smooth and writes like a dream on everything from checks to tax forms. I love that it’s fade and water resistant—no smudges or messes to worry about when I’m signing important documents. Plus, having three pens means I’m never caught without one when the need arises. Honestly, these pens make me feel like a security ninja with every stroke. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their writing to stick around as long as their signatures! —Melanie Turner

If you’re like me and hate when ink fades on important stuff, the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack is a total game-changer. I use these pens on everything—checks, contracts, even prescriptions—because the ink is water resistant and fade-proof. It’s like the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen got a superhero upgrade! Having three of these bad boys means I can stash them everywhere my desk, my purse, and my car. I feel way more secure knowing my signatures won’t disappear like magic. Writing with these pens makes me feel official and unstoppable! —Jasper Collins

Who knew a pen could be this fun and functional? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has become my go-to for signing everything important. The black ink flows perfectly and doesn’t fade or run even if I spill a little water on my paperwork (oops!). It’s perfect for checks, tax forms, and contracts, which I deal with daily. Plus, the three-pack means I’m always prepared, and I don’t have to fight with anyone over who gets the last pen. These pens make me feel like a fraud-fighting superhero in the world of paperwork! —Samantha Hayes

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Why Using a Pen to Write Checks Is Necessary to Prevent Washing

From my experience, writing checks with a pen is essential because it helps protect my money and personal information. When I use a pen, especially one with permanent ink, it becomes much harder for anyone to alter the numbers or the payee’s name. This prevents what’s called “check washing,” where thieves erase or change details to steal funds. Using a pencil or erasable ink would make my checks vulnerable to this kind of fraud.

I’ve also learned that banks and businesses prefer checks written in pen because they trust the permanence of the ink. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my payment instructions are clear and secure. Overall, writing checks with a pen is a simple but effective step I take to safeguard my finances and avoid the hassle of dealing with fraudulent activity.

My Buying Guides on Pen To Write Checks To Prevent Washing

When it comes to writing checks, one of my biggest concerns is preventing check washing—a fraudulent practice where someone removes or alters the ink on a check to change the payee or amount. Over time, I’ve learned that choosing the right pen can make a big difference in protecting my checks. Here’s what I consider when buying a pen specifically to write checks and prevent washing.

Why Choosing the Right Pen Matters

I used to think any pen would do, but I quickly realized that some inks are more vulnerable to chemical erasure than others. The right pen uses ink that bonds strongly with the paper fibers, making it difficult for fraudsters to alter the writing without leaving obvious signs.

Key Features I Look For

1. Permanent, Water-Resistant Ink
My top priority is ink that is permanent and water-resistant. This means that the ink won’t smudge or fade if it comes into contact with water or solvents. Many pens marketed as “archival” or “document” pens use ink that meets these criteria.

2. Pigment-Based Ink
I prefer pigment-based inks over dye-based ones. Pigment inks contain solid color particles that sit on the paper surface and penetrate the fibers, making them much harder to remove or bleach out.

3. Quick-Drying Formula
Since I handle multiple checks, I need a pen with ink that dries quickly to avoid smears or smudges, which could compromise the legibility of the check.

4. Comfortable Grip and Reliable Flow
Writing checks requires neatness, so I look for pens that offer a smooth, consistent ink flow and a comfortable grip. This helps me maintain clear and legible handwriting.

Types of Pens I Considered

  • Gel Pens: Many gel pens have rich, vibrant pigment inks that resist washing. However, not all gel pens are waterproof, so I check the specifications carefully.
  • Ballpoint Pens: These often use oil-based inks that dry fast and are water-resistant, making them a popular choice for checks.
  • Archival or Document Pens: These are specially designed for permanence, often used in official documents and artwork. They usually have the best resistance to washing.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Always test the pen on a similar paper before using it on your checks to ensure the ink doesn’t bleed or fade.
  • Avoid erasable pens or those labeled as “washable” since their ink is designed to come off easily.
  • Keep a few trusted pens dedicated solely to writing checks to ensure consistent ink quality.
  • Store your checks in a safe, dry place to minimize exposure to moisture or chemicals.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect pen to write checks and prevent washing took me a bit of trial and error, but I’ve found that investing in a good archival or water-resistant ballpoint pen gives me peace of mind. It’s a small step that helps protect my finances from fraud and keeps my check-writing secure.

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.