How to Use and Fill Out a French Check (Chèque) the Right Way
In a world where online payments dominate, checks might seem old-fashioned. But in France, checks (“chèques”) are still a common way to make payments, especially for rent, school activities, or some tradespeople. If you’re living in France or planning to, it’s important to understand how French checks work—from receiving your checkbook to filling one out correctly.
What Is a Chèque in France and Why Does It Matter?
When you open a checking account (“compte chèque”) in France, your bank will usually offer you a checkbook (“un carnet de chèques” or “un chéquier”). This allows you to make payments by writing a physical check. Though they’re used less frequently than bank cards, they remain legally binding forms of payment. Writing a check without sufficient funds is a serious offense in France and can result in being banned from writing checks (known as being “interdit bancaire”).
Checks in France also contain your banking identity info, called a RIB (“Relevé d’Identité Bancaire”). You’ll need to provide this RIB to companies for direct debits (“prélèvements”) or payments like salaries, bills, and subscriptions.
What You’ll See on a French Chèque
French checks contain several sections labeled in French. Here’s what you can expect to see:
“Payez contre ce chèque non endossable sauf par une banque ou un établissement financier” — This phrase appears at the top. It means “Pay against this non-endorsable check except by a bank or financial institution.”
“Montant en lettres” — The amount in words. Write the amount in French words starting right after the phrase above.
“Montant en chiffres” — The amount in numbers. This goes in the box with the euro sign (€).
“À l’ordre de” — Pay to the order of. This is where you write the recipient’s name.
“Fait à” — Made in. This is where you write the city or town where you’re writing the check.
“Le” — The date. Write the date in French format: day/month/year.
“Signature” — Your signature must match the one on file with your bank.
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How to Fill Out a French Chèque
Filling out a French check can be confusing at first, but it’s simple once you know what each section is for. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Write the Amount in Words
At the top, you’ll see a long line starting with the phrase “payez contre ce chèque non endossable” or similar. This is where you write the amount in words, in euros and cents, in French.
Example: For €123.45, write: “Cent vingt-trois euros et quarante-cinq centimes.”
Begin writing right after the printed phrase, and avoid leaving large blank spaces.
2. Write the Amount in Numbers
On the right-hand side, you’ll find a small box with a euro sign (€). Here, write the same amount again, but in numbers. Example: “123,45” (use a comma, not a period).
3. Add the Recipient’s Name
Below the amount in words, there’s a line that begins with “à l’ordre de”. This is where you write the name of the person or company you are paying.
4. Add the Date
Below or beside the amount box, you’ll find a line with the word “le”. Here, write the date when the check is being issued.
Use French format: day/month/year (e.g., 04/09/2025).
You can also write it out: “le 4 septembre 2025”
5. Add the Place
Next to the date line, you’ll see the word “à”. This is where you write the city or town where the check was written. Example: “Paris”
6. Sign the Check
Finally, sign the check at the bottom right. Your signature should match the one on file with your bank. If it doesn’t, the check could be rejected.
How to Deposit a Check in France
If you receive a check, you’ll need to endorse it before depositing. This means signing the back of the check (“signer au dos”). You also need to fill out a deposit slip (“bordereau de remise de chèques”). Some banks include these slips at the back of your checkbook, or you can request them at your branch.
Once you’ve filled out the slip and signed the back of the check, you must deposit it at the branch where you opened your account. Unlike in some countries, you generally cannot deposit a check at just any branch, even within the same bank.
Tips for Handling Checks in France
Always make sure you have enough funds before writing a check.
Never leave blank spaces that someone could alter.
Keep your RIB handy for automatic transactions.
Don’t forget to endorse checks you receive before depositing.
Use French spelling and formatting when writing amounts and dates.
Understanding how to properly use checks in France can save you from costly mistakes and make daily transactions smoother. Whether you’re paying rent, reimbursing a friend, or getting paid for freelance work, knowing how to navigate the French banking system gives you more control and confidence.
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