Check
Accounting glossary · Understand, connect, apply
A check is a written payment instruction directing a bank to pay a stated amount from the drawer’s account to the payee, subject to applicable banking law and procedures.
Example
A business issues a $200 check to a supplier and records the payment, although the bank may clear it later.
Remember the difference
An issued check may remain outstanding. Acceptance, dating and legal treatment vary by jurisdiction.
Updated 3 November 2026. Examples are simplified for learning. Where a term depends on US law, IFRS, US GAAP or a historical rule, check the context explained above and the requirements relevant to your course.
Study references: OpenStax financial accounting and managerial accounting. For reporting requirements, consult the applicable IFRS Standards or FASB guidance. US tax terms should be checked against the relevant tax-year IRS instructions.
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