Why is ‘Only’ written after the amount on a cheque? Here’s the reason

You may have noticed that whenever someone writes a cheque, they usually add the word ‘Only’ after mentioning the amount in words. For instance, a cheque for Rs 5,000 may say ‘Five Thousand Only’. But why is this done? Is writing Only on a cheque a compulsory banking rule, or is it simply a long-followed practice? The reason is mainly security. When you write the amount in words, leaving space after it could allow someone to add extra words or alter the amount. Adding ‘Only’ closes the amount and makes such manipulation harder. Banks also advise customers to ensure that the amount written in words matches the amount written in figures.

WHY IS ‘ONLY’ WRITTEN AFTER THE CHEQUE AMOUNT?

The main purpose of writing ‘Only’ on a cheque is to reduce the possibility of someone adding words after the amount. For example, if you write ‘Five Thousand’ and leave considerable blank space, additional words could potentially be added later.

Writing ‘Five Thousand Only’ makes it clear that the amount written there is complete. Bank of Baroda also advises customers to start writing the amount close to the word ‘Rupees’ and add ‘Only’ at the end.

IS WRITING ‘ONLY’ A MANDATORY CHEQUE RULE?

It is commonly recommended as a security practice when filling out a cheque. Banks including Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank instruct customers to write the amount in words and end it with ‘only’.

However, it is important not to confuse this practice with a separate RBI rule specifically mandating the word ‘Only’ on every cheque.

WHY SHOULD YOU WRITE THE AMOUNT IN WORDS AND FIGURES?

A cheque generally carries the amount in two forms: words and numbers. Both should match. When filling out a cheque, customers should enter the amount in figures in the designated box and write the corresponding amount in words on the line below the payee details.

This gives the bank two ways to verify the amount and reduces the chances of confusion or mistakes during processing.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU CHECK BEFORE SIGNING?

Do not leave unnecessary blank spaces while filling out a cheque. Make sure the payee’s name, date and amount are correct, and that the amount in words matches the amount in figures.

Also avoid overwriting or making unauthorised changes. A properly completed cheque is easier to process and less vulnerable to manipulation.

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