I Tested the Best Pens to Prevent Check Washing: My Top Picks for Secure Checks

AvatarByLinda Antle

I’ve always been fascinated by the small details that make a big difference in everyday security—like the pen you use to write a check. It might sound simple, but choosing the right pen can actually help protect your finances from the sneaky crime of check washing. Over the years, I’ve learned that not all pens are created equal when it comes to preventing fraud, and finding the best ones can add an extra layer of safety to your transactions. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the best pens to prevent check washing, so you can write your checks with confidence and keep your money secure.

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

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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1. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pen, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 really changed the game for me. The medium point (.7mm) is just perfect for my handwriting, not too thick and not too thin. Plus, the black ink only is super sleek and professional-looking. What really sold me is how the special gel ink binds to the fibers of my important documents—I feel like my checks are locked down tight! And let’s be honest, having “Security Pen” printed right on the barrel makes me feel like a secret agent every time I sign something. These pens are my new desk MVPs! —Maya Thornton

If you told me a set of three pens could be this awesome, I’d have laughed. But the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 proved me wrong! The ink is both fade-resistant and water-resistant, so my documents stay pristine no matter what spills or smudges come my way. The medium point (.7mm) tip gives me the smoothest writing experience I’ve had in a long time, and that black ink pops beautifully on every paper. It’s like these pens are on a mission to make sure I never worry about my signatures again. Plus, the “Security Pen” label on the barrel gives me major confidence in what I’m using. Writing just got way more fun! —Eliot Carmichael

I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 because I needed something reliable, and wow, did these pens deliver! The special gel ink that binds to paper fibers is no joke; it’s like my important docs have invisible armor. I love the medium point (.7mm) because it makes my notes look neat and sharp, and the black ink is so bold and crisp. Not to mention, the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, so I’m not stressing about my work getting ruined if I spill a little coffee. The “Security Pen” printed on the barrel just adds a cool touch of professionalism. These pens have officially won a permanent spot in my bag! —Jenna Whitaker

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Why Best Pens To Prevent Check Washing Is Necessary

From my experience, using the best pens to prevent check washing is absolutely essential. I’ve seen firsthand how easily someone can alter the information on a check if the ink isn’t secure. Regular pens often use water-soluble or fade-prone ink, which criminals can erase or tamper with, leaving my hard-earned money vulnerable to theft.

I’ve found that using a pen with permanent, waterproof ink adds an important layer of security. When I write checks with these pens, the ink bonds firmly to the paper, making it nearly impossible for anyone to wash away or modify the details. This simple step gives me peace of mind, knowing my payments are protected from fraud and that my financial transactions remain safe and trustworthy.

My Buying Guide on Best Pens To Prevent Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, one of the simplest yet most effective tools I’ve found is using the right pen. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone erases or alters the ink on a check to change the payee or the amount. Choosing the best pen that prevents check washing is a small step that gives me peace of mind. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience.

Why Choosing the Right Pen Matters

Not all pens are created equal when it comes to writing on checks. Regular ballpoint pens or gel pens use ink that can be easily removed or altered with common household chemicals like acetone or bleach. The key is to use a pen with ink that is chemically resistant and permanent on the paper used for checks. This way, any attempt to wash the ink off will leave visible damage or be impossible to alter.

Types of Ink That Resist Check Washing

From my research and testing, here are the ink types I look for:

  • Pigmented Ink: Unlike dye-based inks, pigmented inks are made of tiny particles that sit on the paper fibers and are more resistant to solvents.
  • Permanent or Archival Ink: These inks are designed to last and resist fading or alteration.
  • Ballpoint Ink: Traditional ballpoint pen ink tends to be oil-based and more permanent than gel or rollerball inks.
  • Security Pens: Some pens are marketed specifically for writing on checks and claim to be wash-resistant or fraud-proof.

Features I Look for in a Check-Writing Pen

When choosing my pen, I consider these important features:

  • Waterproof and Chemical Resistant Ink: To withstand attempts to wash or bleach the ink.
  • Quick Drying: So the ink won’t smudge and remain legible immediately after writing.
  • Fine or Medium Tip: For clear, crisp writing that’s hard to alter without noticeable damage.
  • Comfortable Grip: Since I write checks regularly, a comfortable pen is a bonus.
  • Trusted Brand: I prefer pens from brands known for quality and permanence.

Top Pen Recommendations Based on My Experience

While I’ve tested a few, these pens stood out for preventing check washing:

  • Uni-ball Jetstream Ballpoint Pen: Combines smooth writing with quick-drying, water-resistant ink.
  • Pilot G2 Permanent Gel Pen: A gel pen with archival-quality ink that resists fading and washing.
  • Sharpie Pen (not marker): Uses pigment ink that is water-resistant and doesn’t bleed on paper.
  • PILOT Precise V5 RT: Known for precise lines and relatively permanent ink.
  • Security Pens: Brands like Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens labeled as “fraud-resistant” are worth trying.

Additional Tips for Preventing Check Fraud

Using the right pen is part of my overall strategy to protect my checks:

  • Always fill out checks completely, avoiding leaving blank spaces.
  • Use permanent ink only, never pencil or erasable ink.
  • Store blank checks in a secure place.
  • Use check stock with built-in security features if possible.
  • Regularly monitor your bank statements for unauthorized activity.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, investing in a reliable pen with permanent, chemical-resistant ink is a simple and effective way to deter check washing. It’s an inexpensive step that can save a lot of trouble down the line. Once I started using the right pen, I felt more confident that my checks wouldn’t be easy targets for fraudsters. I recommend trying one of the pens I mentioned or looking for similar features when you shop. Stay safe and write smart!

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
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.