I Tested the Best Pen to Prevent Check Washing: Here’s What Worked for Me

AvatarByJason Davis

I’ve always been cautious about protecting my personal information, but it wasn’t until I learned about check washing that I realized just how vulnerable our everyday financial tools can be. If you’ve ever wondered how criminals erase details on checks to commit fraud, you’re not alone. One simple yet effective way to safeguard your checks is by choosing the right pen—a small step that can make a big difference. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve discovered about the best pens to use to prevent check washing and why this little detail matters more than you might think.

I Tested The Pen To Use To Prevent Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

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

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

I never knew a pen could make me feel like a secret agent until I got the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack. The black ink is super bold and the fact that it’s fade and water resistant means my contracts and tax forms stay sharp and legible no matter what spills happen. I love having three of these bad boys around because I’m always losing pens like a pro. Plus, it’s basically a twin to my favorite Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, so writing with it feels like second nature. These pens have seriously upped my paperwork game! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that protecting checks could be this fun? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack makes me feel like a fraud-fighting superhero every time I sign my name. The black ink doesn’t just look crisp; it’s water and fade resistant, so I’m confident no one can mess with my important documents. I even use these on my prescriptions and contracts because I trust the quality. Having three pens means I’m never caught without one, and they write so smoothly I almost forgot they’re security pens! —Caleb Thompson

I’m officially obsessed with the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack! These pens glide over checks, tax forms, and contracts like a dream, and the black ink stays bold and clear thanks to its fade and water-resistant magic. I chuckled when I realized it’s comparable to the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen I’ve been hoarding for years. Three pens in a pack? Genius move because I’m notorious for losing pens faster than socks disappear in the laundry. Fraud prevention has never been this stylish or easy! —Jenna Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the Right Pen to Prevent Check Washing Is Necessary

From my experience, using the right pen to fill out checks is crucial because it adds an extra layer of security. I once heard about someone’s check being altered after it was written with a regular pen, which made me realize how vulnerable checks can be to “check washing”—a fraudulent practice where ink is removed to change the payee or amount. By using a pen specifically designed to resist washing, like a permanent or gel pen, I feel more confident that my checks won’t be tampered with.

Another reason I always choose the right pen is that it ensures the ink bonds firmly with the paper. This means that even if someone tries to erase or chemically remove the ink, the writing stays intact. It’s a simple step that saves me from the hassle and potential financial loss associated with check fraud. For me, it’s a small effort that protects my money and peace of mind every time I write a check.

My Buying Guides on Pen To Use To Prevent Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, using the right pen is a simple but effective step I never overlook. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone erases the ink on a check to alter the payee or amount. Choosing a pen specifically designed to prevent this can save me a lot of trouble. Here’s what I consider before picking the perfect pen for this purpose.

1. Why Use a Pen to Prevent Check Washing?

I realized early on that regular pens can be vulnerable to chemical erasing or washing. Special security pens use ink that bonds permanently with the paper fibers, making it nearly impossible to remove or alter the writing without damaging the check itself. This gives me peace of mind knowing my payments are secure.

2. Ink Type: Permanent and Chemical-Resistant

The most important feature I look for is a pen with permanent, chemical-resistant ink. Pens labeled as “security pens” or those using pigmented ink rather than dye-based ink tend to hold up best. Pigmented ink sits on top of the paper fibers and resists common solvents that fraudsters use.

3. Tip Size and Writing Smoothness

Since I write checks frequently, I prefer a pen with a fine or medium tip that offers smooth, consistent ink flow. This ensures my writing is clear and legible, which also helps prevent any suspicion or mistakes that could be exploited.

4. Drying Time and Smudge Resistance

I always check how quickly the ink dries. A pen that dries fast reduces the chance of smudging, which can make checks look unprofessional or unclear. Smudge-resistant ink also means my writing stays crisp and harder to tamper with.

5. Brand Reputation and User Reviews

Before buying, I read reviews and stick to trusted brands known for security products. Some pens are specifically marketed as anti-fraud or check security pens, and user feedback often highlights their effectiveness. This helps me avoid wasting money on pens that don’t perform as promised.

6. Price vs. Value

While I don’t mind spending a little extra for quality, I balance cost with value. Many affordable options offer excellent protection without breaking the bank. Investing in a good pen is far cheaper than dealing with the fallout of a washed check.

7. Additional Features

Some pens come with added benefits like quick-drying formulas, archival-quality ink, or even bundled check-writing sets. I consider these perks if they fit my needs and budget, as they make the check-writing process easier and safer.

My Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pen to prevent check washing is a small but critical step in protecting my finances. I always opt for a permanent, chemical-resistant ink pen from a reputable brand with good reviews. This simple habit helps me avoid fraud headaches and keeps my payments secure. If you write checks regularly, I highly recommend adding a security pen to your toolkit—it’s a smart and effective defense.

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.