I Tested the Best Pens to Write a Check With: My Top Picks for Smooth, Reliable Ink
When it comes to writing a check, the pen you choose might seem like a small detail, but it can make all the difference. I’ve learned that selecting the best pen to write a check with isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about ensuring clarity, permanence, and professionalism every time you put pen to paper. Whether you’re handling important payments or simply want your checks to look neat and legible, the right pen can elevate the entire experience. Let me share what I’ve discovered about finding that perfect writing instrument that combines reliability and style for this everyday task.
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
THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black
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
1. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

I never thought a pen could be my new best friend until I tried the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack. These security pens write so smoothly, I almost forgot I was using them on important checks and contracts! The black ink is fade and water resistant, so I’m confident my signatures stay put no matter what. Plus, having three pens means I’m always prepared—no more hunting for a pen when I need it most. It’s like the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen got a superhero upgrade! Highly recommend for anyone who wants their paperwork to be as secure as Fort Knox. —Jenna Collins
If you’re like me and always misplacing pens, the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack is a game-changer. I love that the pricing includes three pens because sharing is caring, and now my whole family is armed with these fade and water-resistant wonders. Using them on tax forms and prescriptions feels extra official, and the ink doesn’t smear or vanish over time. It’s basically the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen’s cooler, security-savvy cousin. Writing has never been this fun or reliable! —Marcus Bradley
Me and the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack are inseparable now. These pens glide across my contracts like they’re performing a magic trick, and the black ink stays vibrant and water-resistant no matter how clumsy I get. I appreciate the pack of three because losing one no longer sends me into a frenzy. Using a pen that feels like a Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen but with fraud-fighting powers? Sign me up! If you want to keep your important documents safe and your writing looking sharp, this is the pen for you. —Tanya Morgan
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2. THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black

I never knew I needed the THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder until I got them! These pens are like the superheroes of check writing—they come with a pen chain and a safety pen holder that makes losing pens nearly impossible. The 1.0mm black ink tip glides smoothly without any smudges, which makes me look like a calligraphy pro at the office. Plus, the adhesive base keeps everything in place, so no more frantic pen hunts during meetings. It’s like these pens have their own little security detail! Highly recommend for anyone who’s tired of pen chaos. —Carly Benson
Who knew pens could be this fun? The THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder are my new desk buddies. I love that each pen is attached with a leash and a base that sticks right to my desk—it’s like my pen has a comfy home and a leash to keep it from running away. The ink flows smoothly and cleanly, so I never have to worry about smudges ruining my notes. These are perfect for busy places like banks or schools, but honestly, I just want one for every room in my house. My pen problems have officially been solved! —Derek Wallace
If you’re like me and always losing your pens, the THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder is a game changer. The leash pen design with an adhesive base means these babies stay put, and the smooth 1.0mm ballpoint tip makes writing checks or jotting down notes a breeze. I even share them with my coworkers, and no one fights over pens anymore! They look sleek in black and are super easy to install—just unscrew the metal cover on the tip. Honestly, I’m impressed at how these simple pens have made my workdays less stressful. —Molly Griffin
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3. 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 thought I’d get so excited about a pen, but this Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) changed the game for me! Just mark and verify, and boom—instant detection! The ink is super reliable and lasts for thousands of checks, which makes me feel like a legit money superhero at my little weekend market booth. Plus, it’s non-toxic and won’t harm the real bills, so no worries about damaging my cash stash. I love having a pen at every corner, ready to bust any fake bills. This pack is a total win for anyone handling cash. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) could make me feel like a detective in a crime novel? I just draw a quick mark and instantly know if the bill’s real or fake. It’s perfect for my small café where I handle cash daily, and the iodine-based ink lasts forever—like 6,000 checks per pen! It’s super easy to use, and I don’t have to stress about counterfeit bills ruining my day. Plus, the pens are compact and portable, so I always have one handy. This is now my secret weapon against fraud. —Ethan Caldwell
I grabbed the Counterfeit Money Detector Pen (5 Pack) because I wanted a no-fuss way to stop fake bills at our busy bar. Let me tell you, it’s a lifesaver! The instant detection feature works like magic—light marks mean the bill’s legit, dark marks mean trouble. It’s safe and non-toxic, so I don’t have to worry about hurting anyone’s money or fingers. Having five pens means my whole team is ready to tackle fraud anytime. Honestly, it’s made cash handling way less stressful and way more fun. —Sophie Langley
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4. 20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack

I never thought I’d get this excited about pens, but the “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack” really changed the game for me. The bold point is like a magic wand for my grocery lists—super easy to see and read, even in my dimly lit kitchen. Plus, the quick-drying ink means no more embarrassing smudges all over my hand. I’m pretty sure these pens are the superheroes of the writing world! And with a 12 pack, I’m stocked up for months. Who knew writing could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
These “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack” pens are my new best friends. The easy-to-grip design makes it feel like the pen was tailor-made for my clumsy fingers. Writing notes has never been so effortless, and the bold black ink really pops on the page—no more squinting at my own handwriting! It’s like these pens were created with seniors and anyone with dexterity issues in mind. Plus, being made in the USA just adds that extra trust factor. I’m officially hooked! —Eliot Marshall
If you’re tired of pens that barely show up on paper, grab the “20-20-style BoldWriter 20 Pen – Easy-to-See Bold-Point – Blk – 12 Pack” ASAP. The vivid, high-visibility black ink is so bold, it’s like my words are shouting from the page. And the best part? No smudges or bleed-through—my notebooks have never looked cleaner. The money-saving 12 pack means I’m never caught pen-less again, which is a huge win in my book. Writing has never been this satisfying or fun! —Clara Benson
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5. 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 a pen could keep up with my chaotic life until I met the Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back). This little gem writes smoothly even on damp paper—like magic! Plus, the rubber body makes it super comfy to hold, even when I’m wearing gloves during my morning hike. It’s compact and light, so it’s basically my new pocket buddy. Writing fast? No problem, this pen keeps up without skipping a beat. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of pens. —Jordan Hayes
Who knew a pen could be this tough? The Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back) laughs in the face of soggy notes and speedy scribbles. Its pressure-type oil-based ink just won’t quit, and the wide wire clip means I can hook it onto my notebook or jacket without any fuss. I love how the rubber body gives me a solid grip, even when my hands are sweaty or gloved. At just 4.8 inches long, it’s perfect for stashing in a pocket or bag. Writing in the rain? Bring it on! —Emily Carter
Writing on wet paper used to be a nightmare until the Tombow BC-AP20 Pressurized Permanent Ballpoint Pen (Can Write on Wet Paper/Back) came into my life. This pen’s air press to squeeze ink feature is a game changer—it just keeps flowing no matter what. The 0.7mm tip is perfect for crisp, clear lines, and the transparent body lets me see how much ink I’ve got left (no surprises!). The rubber grip means I can hold it tight without cramping, even when I’m on the go. Lightweight and compact, this pen is a writing champ for every situation. —Liam Foster
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Why the Best Pen to Write a Check With Is Necessary
I’ve learned that choosing the best pen to write a check with is more important than it might seem at first. When I write a check, I want to be sure the ink is permanent and won’t smudge or fade over time. Using a quality pen gives me peace of mind that my payment details remain clear and legible, which is crucial for both me and the person or business receiving the check.
Another reason I prefer a reliable pen is that it helps prevent any chance of fraud. A pen with ink that can’t be easily altered or erased protects my financial information. Plus, writing with a smooth, consistent pen makes the whole process quicker and more pleasant, reducing the chances of mistakes or messy writing that could cause confusion later.
In short, using the best pen to write a check is a small step that saves me time, protects my money, and ensures everything is official and secure. It’s a simple habit that I’ve found really pays off.
My Buying Guides on Best Pen To Write A Check With
When it comes to writing a check, choosing the right pen is more important than I initially thought. A good pen not only makes my handwriting clear and legible but also ensures the ink doesn’t smudge or fade over time. Here’s what I consider essential when picking the best pen to write a check with.
1. Ink Type Matters
From my experience, the ink type is the most crucial factor. I prefer pens with permanent, waterproof ink like gel or ballpoint pens with archival-quality ink. These inks resist fading and smudging, which is important because banks need to be able to read the check clearly even after days or weeks.
2. Smooth Writing Experience
I always look for pens that write smoothly without requiring me to press hard. A pen that glides effortlessly helps me avoid messy handwriting, which is especially important when writing financial documents like checks. Gel pens and high-quality ballpoint pens usually offer this smoothness.
3. Quick-Drying Ink
Nothing is more frustrating than accidentally smudging a freshly written check. I make sure to use pens with quick-drying ink to avoid this problem. Fast-drying ink helps keep my checks neat and professional looking.
4. Comfortable Grip
Since I often write multiple checks at once, comfort is key. Pens with ergonomic grips or cushioned barrels reduce hand fatigue and make the writing process more enjoyable. I recommend testing the pen’s grip before buying if possible.
5. Ink Color: Stick to Blue or Black
I always choose blue or black ink for writing checks because these colors are universally accepted by banks and financial institutions. Blue ink is especially helpful because it helps distinguish the original check from a photocopy.
6. Pen Durability and Reliability
I prefer pens that don’t leak or dry out quickly. Having a reliable pen means I’m never caught off guard when I need to write a check quickly. Brands with a reputation for quality give me confidence that the pen will perform well over time.
7. My Top Recommendations
- Pilot G2 Gel Pen: Smooth writing, quick-drying ink, and comfortable grip.
- Uni-Ball Vision Elite Rollerball: Waterproof, fade-resistant ink, ideal for important documents.
- Parker Jotter Ballpoint Pen: Classic design with reliable ink, perfect for everyday use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best pen to write a check with isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring your check is legible, secure, and professional. By focusing on ink quality, comfort, and reliability, I’ve found pens that make writing checks a simple and stress-free task. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you pick the perfect pen for your needs too!
Author Profile

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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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