Easy Tech TutsHow to Enter Handwritten Checks in QuickBooks Online Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Writing a check out of your physical checkbook on the go still needs to make it into QuickBooks so your books and bank feed line up. This guide covers using the Check form, unblocking the check number field, and categorizing the transaction correctly. It's for business owners who occasionally pay vendors with a handwritten check instead of an electronic transfer.
01Open the Check form
Click + New, then select Check under the Vendors column.
02Choose the payee and bank account
Select the vendor or individual you paid, then choose the specific operating checking account the funds were drawn from.
03Unblock the check number field
Uncheck the Print Later box near the top of the form so the Check No. field becomes editable.
04Enter the exact check number
Type in the numerical serial from your handwritten check so it matches your physical checkbook record.
05Categorize and save the entry
Select the correct expense account in the category details table, add a memo, then save and close the form.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I type a check number by default?
The Print Later checkbox is on by default for checks meant to be printed through QuickBooks, so it needs to be unchecked to manually enter a number.
Will this check auto-match with my bank feed?
Yes, once the check clears and appears in your downloaded bank feed, QuickBooks should pair it against your recorded entry automatically.
What if I forget the exact check number?
Check your physical checkbook register or bank statement to confirm the correct serial before entering it, since it helps with future matching and audits.
Can I edit the check number after saving?
Yes, you can reopen the transaction at any time and correct the check number if you made a typo.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
