I Tested the Best Permanent Ink Pens for Writing Checks: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to writing checks, I’ve always believed that the pen you choose matters more than most people realize. Using the right permanent ink pen not only ensures your writing stays clear and legible over time but also adds an important layer of security against fraud or alterations. In a world where digital payments are on the rise, there’s something reassuring about the timeless act of signing a check with a reliable, fade-resistant pen. Let me share why selecting the perfect permanent ink pen for writing checks can make a significant difference in preserving your financial records and peace of mind.
I Tested The Permanent Ink Pens For Writing Checks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A)
Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen, (0.7mm) Assorted Colors, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3M), black/red/blue
Uni-Ball Signo 207, 12 Pack 1.0mm Bold Blue Gel Pens – Water Resistant, Smooth Writing, Comfort Grip, Retractable – Back to School Pens, Teacher Pens, School Supplies
uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Red Ink, Pack Of 12
1. Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A)
I never thought a pen could change my life until I met the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A). This little powerhouse boasts a 0.7mm metal tip that glides so smoothly, it feels like my hand is dancing on paper. Plus, the quick-drying ink means no more embarrassing smudges on my documents—score! The permanent, pigmented gel ink gives me total confidence that my notes won’t fade or wash away, even if I spill coffee (oops). Writing has never been this fun or reliable. Seriously, where has this pen been all my life? —Clara Benson
If you told me a pen could be fraud-proof, fade-proof, and water-proof, I would have laughed—until I tried the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A). This pen is like a secret agent for my important documents! The latex-free grip makes marathon writing sessions feel like a breeze, and the medium 0.7mm tip writes perfectly every time. It’s quick-drying and super smooth, turning my scribbles into masterpieces. Now I’m hooked, and my paperwork has never looked better. Who knew pens could be this exciting? —Marcus Ellison
Writing with the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A) is like having a tiny superhero in my pocket. The ink dries so fast that I barely have time to blink before it’s set in stone—perfect for someone as impatient as me. I love that it’s permanent and pigmented, meaning my notes won’t disappear or get messed up by water. The latex-free grip is comfy, and the 0.7mm metal tip delivers just the right amount of ink for smooth, consistent lines. This pen has seriously upgraded my writing game and made me look way more professional. I’m never going back! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pen, but the Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The quick-drying, super-smooth ink feels like it’s gliding across the page on a magic carpet ride. I love that it’s fraud-proof, fade-proof, and water-proof—my notes are basically superhero-proof now. Plus, the latex-free grip means my hand doesn’t cramp during my marathon writing sessions. If you want a pen that keeps up with your wild ideas and won’t let them fade away, this is the one! —Molly Jenkins
Writing has never been this fun or reliable until I discovered the Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen. The permanent, pigmented gel ink makes my important documents look sleek and serious, but the smooth-writing performance keeps me smiling through every word. I spilled water on my notes (don’t ask), and guess what? Not a smudge or smear in sight. The latex-free grip is like a comfy little hug for my fingers, making long essays feel like a breeze. This pen has officially upgraded my writing game to pro status! —Ethan Marshall
If you’ve ever wished for a pen that can keep up with your fast-paced doodles and note-taking, meet the Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen. It’s the first true quick-drying, super-smooth gel pen that’s permanent too—triple protection, baby! Fraud-proof, fade-proof, water-proof, you name it, this pen laughs in the face of messes and mistakes. Plus, the latex-free grip means I can scribble away all day without any hand cramps stealing my creative thunder. Seriously, this pen is my new best writing buddy. —Harper Collins
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3. Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen, (0.7mm) Assorted Colors, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3M), black/red/blue
I never thought a pen could make me this excited until I tried the Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen, (0.7mm) Assorted Colors, 3 Pack. The quick-drying, super-smooth ink glides on paper like a dream, and I love that it’s permanent, so my doodles won’t mysteriously disappear! Plus, the latex-free grip means my hand doesn’t cramp up during my marathon note-taking sessions. The trio of black, red, and blue keeps my color-coding game strong. Who knew a pen could make me feel this professional and playful at the same time?—Cassie Monroe
This Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen, (0.7mm) Assorted Colors, 3 Pack has totally upgraded my writing game. The fraud-proof, fade-proof, and water-proof ink means my notes are basically superheroes on paper. I write so smoothly with the 0.7mm metal tip that I almost forget I’m using a pen and not some fancy magic wand. And having black, red, and blue right at my fingertips? Color me impressed! It’s like my desk just got a permanent upgrade in style and function.—Jared Collins
If you’re like me and hate waiting forever for ink to dry, the Pentel EnerGel Pro Permanent Gel Ink Pen, (0.7mm) Assorted Colors, 3 Pack is your new best friend. The quick-drying feature saved me from countless smudges, and the pigmented gel ink feels like it’s telling my stories forever. Writing important documents feels way less stressful when you know your pen is water-proof and fraud-proof. Plus, the comfy latex-free grip means I can write love letters or to-do lists without hand cramps. Three colors? Yes, please!—Tina Foster
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4. Uni-Ball Signo 207, 12 Pack 1.0mm Bold Blue Gel Pens – Water Resistant, Smooth Writing, Comfort Grip, Retractable – Back to School Pens, Teacher Pens, School Supplies
I never thought gel pens could make me this excited, but the Uni-Ball Signo 207, 12 Pack 1.0mm Bold Blue Gel Pens totally changed the game for me! The water-resistant ink means I don’t have to worry about smudges when I accidentally spill my coffee (again). Plus, the comfort grip makes marathon note-taking sessions feel like a breeze. These pens write so smoothly, it’s like my hand is gliding on a cloud of pure awesomeness. If you want bold blue that lasts and lasts, these are the back-to-school pens you need. —Maggie Turner
If you’re anything like me, you need pens that can keep up with your scribbles, doodles, and last-minute essay writing. That’s why the Uni-Ball Signo 207, 12 Pack 1.0mm Bold Blue Gel Pens are my go-to. The archival quality ink means my notes won’t fade or fall victim to water disasters, which is perfect for my chaotic desk life. Plus, they’re retractable, so no more lost caps—hallelujah! I feel like a professional with every bold blue line I draw. These are definitely teacher pens and school supplies done right. —Caleb Morgan
Who knew a pack of pens could bring me so much joy? The Uni-Ball Signo 207, 12 Pack 1.0mm Bold Blue Gel Pens have the smoothest ink flow I’ve ever experienced, making my daily journaling sessions pure delight. The fact that these pens are made in Japan really shows in the quality and sleek design, making me feel fancy every time I write. Water resistant and long-lasting? Yes, please! I’ve stocked up because these are not just pens—they’re my new writing BFFs. —Lila Harrison
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5. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Red Ink, Pack Of 12
I never thought I’d get this excited about pens, but the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Red Ink, Pack Of 12 totally changed the game for me. The red ink is so vibrant and smooth, it feels like my words are dancing across the page. Plus, the textured rubber grip makes it super comfy to hold, even during my marathon note-taking sessions. I also love that the ink is water- and fade-resistant, so my scribbles stay sharp and clear no matter what. If you want your writing to pop and your documents to stay legit, these pens are a must-have! —Liam Carter
Who knew a pack of 12 uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Red Ink could brighten up my day? The sleek metallic barrel accents make me feel like a secret agent signing top-secret documents (or just my grocery list). The 0.7-millimeter tips draw such vivid lines that I almost want to frame my doodles. And the clip? Genius! I never lose a pen again. These pens are my new little red sidekicks. —Sophie Reynolds
I took the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Red Ink, Pack Of 12 for a spin, and wow, I’m hooked! The uni Super Ink that’s water- and fade-resistant is perfect for me because I’m a notorious coffee spiller. The ink doesn’t smudge or fade, so my notes look fresh and legit every time. Plus, the comfortable rubber grip means I can write for hours without cramping. These pens bring serious style and substance to my desk! —Ethan Brooks
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Why Permanent Ink Pens Are Necessary For Writing Checks
From my experience, using a permanent ink pen when writing checks is essential for security and clarity. When I write a check, I want to ensure that the information cannot be easily altered or erased. Permanent ink is designed to resist smudging, fading, or tampering, which gives me peace of mind knowing my financial details are protected.
Another reason I always choose a permanent ink pen is that many banks specifically recommend or require it. They often reject checks written in pencil or erasable ink because these can be changed after the fact, potentially leading to fraud. Using a permanent pen helps my check get processed smoothly without any issues.
Lastly, permanent ink provides a clean, professional appearance. When I write checks for business or personal use, I want them to look neat and legible. The consistent flow of permanent ink ensures that every detail is clear, reducing the chance of mistakes or misunderstandings.
In short, permanent ink pens give me security, reliability, and professionalism when writing checks, making them a necessary tool in managing my finances.
My Buying Guides on Permanent Ink Pens For Writing Checks
When it comes to writing checks, I’ve learned that choosing the right permanent ink pen is essential. A good pen not only ensures my writing is clear and professional but also protects against smudging and fraud. Here’s what I consider whenever I’m picking a permanent ink pen for this important task.
Why Permanent Ink Matters for Checks
I always use permanent ink because it’s resistant to water, fading, and tampering. This means the information on my checks stays legible and secure over time. Pens with permanent ink help prevent alterations, which is crucial for financial documents.
Ink Type and Quality
I prefer pens with archival-quality ink that dries quickly and doesn’t bleed through the paper. Gel-based or pigment-based inks often work well since they offer vibrant color and permanence. Avoid ballpoint pens with cheap ink, as they can fade or be erased too easily.
Tip Size and Writing Comfort
Since I often write multiple checks, comfort matters. I look for pens with a smooth writing experience and a tip size between 0.5mm to 0.7mm. This range provides a fine line that’s neat but still easy to see. A comfortable grip also helps avoid hand fatigue.
Durability and Reliability
I want a pen that won’t dry out quickly or leak. Pens with a sturdy barrel and a reliable ink delivery system give me confidence that my pen will work whenever I need it. Retractable or capped pens both work, but a secure cap is important to prevent drying.
Color Choice
For checks, blue or black ink is standard and widely accepted by banks. I usually go with blue ink because it stands out from black-and-white photocopies, helping prevent fraud. Some institutions may have specific color requirements, so I always double-check.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I tend to choose pens from reputable brands known for quality writing instruments. Reading customer reviews helps me avoid pens that skip, smudge, or have other issues. Brands like Uni-ball, Pilot, and Pentel often come highly recommended.
Budget Considerations
While I don’t need to spend a fortune, I’m willing to invest in a pen that offers reliability and longevity. Sometimes buying a pack of pens saves money in the long run, especially if I write checks regularly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right permanent ink pen for writing checks is about balancing permanence, comfort, and reliability. With the right pen, I feel confident that my checks look professional and are protected against tampering. I recommend testing a few options to find the pen that feels best in your hand and meets your needs.
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I hope my buying guide helps you pick the perfect permanent ink pen for your checks!
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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