Six Simple Steps For Writing A Cheque In Singapore

While digital payment methods are now widespread in Singapore, there are still situations where knowing how to write a cheque remains essential. Let us walk you through the six simple steps of writing a cheque.

Write down the date you are issuing the cheque. The common date format used in Singapore is DD/MM/YYYY (e.g., 25/10/2025).

Write the full and correct name of the individual or organisation you're paying. Ensure it matches exactly how it appears on their official records.

Clearly indicate the amount you're paying in Singapore Dollars (SGD or S$). Write the numerical amount accurately within the designated box.

The written amount must precisely match the numerical amount, and must include the word “Only” at the end. For example, $1,050 would be “One Thousand and Fifty Dollars Only”, and $235.80 would be “Two Hundred and Thirty-Five Dollars and Eight Cents Only”.

It's common practice to draw a horizontal line after the written amount to prevent anyone from adding extra words or numbers to alter the cheque.

The memo field is for you to add a brief note about the transaction for your identification and record-keeping purposes. It’s not mandatory, but it is useful to remind you of why you wrote this cheque in the first place.

For example, you could write “Rental for May 2025”, “Invoice #SG1234”, or “ERP Payment” in the memo field to state the purpose of the cheque for your own reference.

Sign the cheque in the designated spot exactly as your name appears on your bank account records.

» Cheques are best used with a current account. Find out how it differs from a savings account. 

How to endorse a cheque

To endorse a cheque to pay someone else, you must write the full name of the payee on the ‘Pay’ line, as per the latter’s bank records. Then, cross out the ‘Bearer’ word on the cheque, and add a double-cross on the top left corner of the cheque to indicate that it must be paid only to the payee.

Finally, sign the cheque with your signature as per the issuing bank’s records. If you need to make any changes, cancel any errors with a horizontal line and add your full signature beside it.

» Find out more about the parts of a cheque.

Convenient and efficient alternatives to writing a cheque in Singapore

While it's still useful to know how to write a cheque, digital payment methods have become the preferred option in Singapore, often providing greater speed, convenience, and efficiency.

» Learn more: How to make sure your cheque doesn’t bounce.

Here are some examples of these digital payment methods:

• FAST (Fast and Secure Transfers): This is a real-time interbank fund transfer system that allows you to transfer Singapore Dollars between participating banks almost instantly.

• PayNow: This service enables peer-to-peer and business payments using phone numbers or NRIC/FIN numbers.

• GIRO: This is commonly used for recurring bill payments, such as utilities, insurance premiums, credit card, and loan repayments.

• Credit and debit cards: These are widely accepted for retail transactions, both in physical stores and online.

• Digital wallets: Mobile-based payment platforms like Apple Pay and Google Pay are popular for day-to-day transactions.

• Bank transfers via Internet banking: Most banks in Singapore offer online platforms for transferring funds between accounts.

For larger transactions, Singaporeans also have access to cashier’s orders, although these are less common for everyday use. 

» Take a look at the mobile wallets available in Singapore today.