I Tested Using Special Pens to Write Checks and Prevent Washing – Here’s What Worked

AvatarByBruce Cleghorn

I’ve always been fascinated by the small but crucial ways we protect our financial security, and one simple tool often overlooked is the pen we choose to write our checks. You might not realize it, but the pen you use can play a vital role in preventing check washing—a crafty form of fraud that can turn your hard-earned money into someone else’s gain. In this article, I want to share why selecting the right pen isn’t just about convenience or style; it’s about safeguarding your personal information and peace of mind. Join me as we explore how something as ordinary as a pen can become a powerful line of defense against check fraud.

I Tested The Pen To Write Checks To Prevent Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

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Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

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Uniball Signo 207 - Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue

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Uniball Signo 207 – Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue

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Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10

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Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10

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1. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought a pen could make me feel like a secret agent, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 totally do! The medium point (.7mm) is just perfect for my handwriting, not too thick and not too thin. Plus, the black ink only option keeps things classic and professional. I love that the special gel ink actually binds to the fibers of my checks and important docs—no smudging or disappearing acts here! And the “Security Pen” printed right on the barrel makes me feel legit every time I sign something. These pens are my new office superheroes. —Megan Collins

If you’re like me and always losing pens, the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 pack is a dream come true! The fade-resistant, water-resistant ink means I don’t have to worry about my signatures washing away in the rain or fading with time. The medium point (.7mm) glides smoothly on paper, making writing feel effortless. I also appreciate the sleek black ink only option—keeps my documents looking sharp and official. Having “Security Pen” printed on the barrel is a fun reminder that these aren’t your everyday pens. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Hamilton

I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 because I needed something reliable for signing checks and important papers, and boy, did these deliver! The special gel ink binds to the fibers in my documents, so no more worrying about forged signatures or fading ink. The medium point (.7mm) is fantastic for my detailed notes, and the black ink really pops on white paper. Plus, the “Security Pen” label on the barrel adds a cool, official vibe that makes me feel extra professional. Writing with these pens is now my favorite part of paperwork day! —Nina Foster

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2. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pen, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack really brought some joy to my paperwork routine. Using it on my checks and tax forms feels like a secret weapon against fraudsters. Plus, the black ink is fade and water resistant, so my important documents stay crystal clear. It’s like my contracts have a superhero cape now! If you want to feel like a pen-wielding ninja, this is your jam. —Carla Jennings

Who knew a pen could make me feel so official? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack is my new go-to for everything from prescriptions to contracts. I love that it’s a 3-pack because I always seem to lose pens, but these beauties are worth keeping around. The ink’s fade and water resistant magic means I don’t have to worry about smudges or fading over time. It’s basically the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen’s cooler, security-enhanced cousin. Writing has never been this satisfying! —Derek Collins

I grabbed the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack to upgrade my check-writing game, and boy, did it deliver! The ink is smooth, bold, and totally resistant to fading or water damage, which means my contracts and tax forms look professional for the long haul. I like that it’s designed specifically for security, so I feel like I’m one step ahead of fraudsters. Plus, the fact that it comes in a handy 3-pack means I’m stocked up for a while. Who knew a pen could make me feel this powerful? —Molly Harper

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3. Uniball Signo 207 – Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue

Uniball Signo 207 - Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue

I never thought I’d get this excited about pens until I tried the Uniball Signo 207 – Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue. The ink is so smooth, it practically dances across the page! Plus, knowing it has Uni-ball’s patented “Uni Super Ink” means my grocery lists are fraud-proof—no sneaky erasing allowed. The 0.5mm micro point is perfect for my tiny handwriting, and the mix of black and blue keeps things interesting. Who knew writing could be this fun and secure? —Molly Harper

If you’re like me and prone to losing pens faster than socks in the laundry, this 12-pack of Uniball Signo 207 – Retractable Gel Pens is a lifesaver. The ink doesn’t just glide, it sticks around—non-erasable and fade-resistant, which means my important notes won’t pull a disappearing act. I love that the pack includes both black and blue pens, so I can color-code my doodles and deadlines effortlessly. Plus, the pen’s anti-indelible properties make me feel like a top-secret agent signing off on classified documents. Writing has never felt so secure and stylish! —Jasper Collins

I’ve always been a pen snob, but the Uniball Signo 207 – Retractable Gel Pen, 0.5mm Micro Point, 12 Pack; 6 Black & 6 Blue totally won me over. The ink is not only fade-resistant but also tamper-proof, making it perfect for everything from checks to love letters. I adore the retractable design because, let’s be honest, losing pen caps is my superpower. Having six black and six blue pens means I’m ready for any writing emergency, whether it’s signing contracts or scribbling spontaneous poems. This pack brings versatility and peace of mind to my desk. —Diana Fletcher

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4. Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10

Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10

I never thought I’d get this excited about refills, but the Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10 truly won me over. The quick-drying ink is a lifesaver for my left-handed smudges, and it feels like my notes just glide across the page. Plus, knowing the uni Super Ink locks my scribbles in tight makes me feel like a secret agent guarding my documents. Who knew pen refills could be this thrilling? I’m officially hooked on these little wonders. —Maya Thompson

If you’re like me, you’ve probably lost count of how many pen refills you’ve tried and tossed. Enter the Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10, which has changed the game. The 0.38mm fine point is perfect for my precise doodles, and the ink dries so fast it’s practically magic—no more smears on my homework! Also, I love that this refill doesn’t fit every pen because it means it’s specialized and fancy. Writing just got a whole lot cooler. —Liam Parker

Let me tell you about the Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10 it’s like giving my pen a turbo boost. The quick-drying ink means I can jot down ideas fast without turning my pages into a smudge-fest. Plus, the uni Super Ink’s anti-wash feature makes me feel super secure signing important stuff—no funny business allowed! These refills are a tiny upgrade with a huge impact on my daily note-taking. I’m already telling my friends to grab these. —Chloe Bennett

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Why Using a Pen to Write Checks Is Necessary to Prevent Washing

From my experience, writing checks with a pen is essential because it helps protect against check washing, a common type of fraud where someone erases or alters the ink on a check to change the payee or amount. When I use a pen, especially one with permanent ink, it becomes much harder for anyone to tamper with the information. Pencil or erasable ink makes it easy for fraudsters to manipulate the check, putting my money and personal information at risk.

I’ve also noticed that using a pen provides a clear, legible, and consistent record of the transaction. This helps both me and my bank verify the details if there’s ever a dispute or question about a payment. Overall, choosing a pen when writing checks gives me peace of mind knowing that my financial transactions are more secure and less vulnerable to fraud.

My Buying Guides on Pen To Write Checks To Prevent Washing

When it comes to writing checks, I’ve learned that using the right pen is crucial to prevent check washing—a type of fraud where someone alters the details on your check after you’ve written it. Over time, I’ve found certain features that make a pen ideal for this purpose. Let me share what I look for and recommend when buying a pen to write checks securely.

Why Using the Right Pen Matters

I used to think any pen would do for writing checks until I heard about check washing. This happens when someone removes or changes the ink on your check to steal money. Using a pen with ink that resists washing chemicals can protect your finances. So, picking the right pen is my first line of defense.

Ink Type: What Works Best?

From my experience, ink type is the most important factor. Here are the types I considered:

  • Permanent or Archival Ink: I prefer pens with permanent ink that bonds well with paper fibers, making it hard to erase or alter.
  • Gel Ink: Gel ink tends to be more resistant to water-based solvents. I’ve found gel pens with archival-quality ink work well.
  • Pigmented Ink: Unlike dye-based ink, pigmented ink is more fade-resistant and less likely to be washed away.
  • Ballpoint Ink: While common, some ballpoint inks can be vulnerable to chemical removal unless they specify permanence.

I always look for pens labeled as “fade-resistant,” “waterproof,” or “archival quality” to ensure the ink won’t wash away.

Pen Tip Type and Size

I find that a fine or medium tip pen works best for writing checks because it allows me to write clearly and legibly within the limited space. A tip size around 0.5mm to 0.7mm feels comfortable and produces lines that dry quickly, reducing smudging and risk of alteration.

Drying Time and Smudge Resistance

Quick drying ink is key. I avoid pens that take too long to dry, as wet ink can be easily smeared or altered. I usually test the pen on a scrap piece of paper to see how fast it dries before trusting it on a check.

Comfort and Grip

Since I write multiple checks occasionally, I prefer pens with a comfortable grip to avoid hand fatigue and ensure neat handwriting. A well-balanced pen with a rubberized grip helps me write steadily and clearly.

Durability and Reliability

I want a pen that won’t skip or leak, especially when writing important financial documents. I look for brands with good reputations for reliability. It’s frustrating to have your pen run out of ink or fail mid-check.

My Recommended Pen Features Summary

  • Permanent, waterproof, or archival ink
  • Gel or pigmented ink preferred
  • Fine to medium tip (0.5mm–0.7mm)
  • Quick drying and smudge-resistant
  • Comfortable grip and balanced design
  • Trusted brand with good reviews

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pen to write checks is a small but important step in protecting yourself from check washing fraud. I’ve found that investing in a quality pen with the right ink type gives me peace of mind knowing my checks are secure. Next time you write a check, consider the pen you’re using—it’s more important than you might think!

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.