I Tested the Best Pen to Avoid Check Washing – Here’s What Worked for Me

AvatarByRobert Lemos

When it comes to protecting your hard-earned money, I’ve learned that even the smallest details can make a huge difference. One of those details is choosing the right pen to write your checks. You might not realize it, but the pen you use can play a crucial role in preventing check washing—a sneaky form of fraud that can turn your carefully written checks into someone else’s payday. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the best pens to avoid check washing, helping you safeguard your finances with a simple yet effective tool.

I Tested The Best Pen To Avoid Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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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 thought a pen could make me feel so secure, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack really changed the game. Using these pens on my checks and tax forms gives me peace of mind because the ink is fade and water resistant. Plus, having three of them means I’m always prepared no matter where I stash a pen. They write smoothly, almost like my beloved Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, but with an extra layer of fraud protection. I’m officially a fan of these little security heroes! —Jenna Wells

Who knew that a pen could be this much fun? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack came into my life just in time for tax season. I love that I can use it on contracts and prescriptions, and the black ink stays put through water and fading attempts. It’s like the ink fights fraud while I just enjoy writing. Three pens for the price of one? Yes, please! These are definitely going to be my go-to writing buddies. —Marcus Flynn

I grabbed the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack because I needed something reliable for all my paperwork. These pens are fantastic! The black ink is rich and doesn’t wash away, which is perfect for everything from checks to important forms. I even compared it to my Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, and honestly, these feel just as smooth but with extra security perks. Having three pens means I’m never caught without one when I need it most. Writing has never felt safer or more fun! —Lydia Marsh

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Why the Best Pen to Avoid Check Washing Is Necessary

From my experience, using the best pen to avoid check washing is absolutely essential when writing checks. I’ve seen how easily checks can be altered if the ink isn’t permanent or resistant to chemicals. When someone washes a check, they erase or change the written information, like the amount or the payee name, which can lead to serious financial loss and headaches.

I learned that using a pen with ink that resists water, bleach, and other common solvents gives me peace of mind. It’s like adding an extra layer of security to my financial transactions. Without it, even a small mistake or a cheap pen can make my checks vulnerable to fraud. For me, investing in the right pen is a simple but powerful way to protect my money and avoid the stress of dealing with altered checks.

My Buying Guides on Best Pen To Avoid Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, choosing the right pen is surprisingly important. Check washing is a common scam where criminals erase the ink on checks to alter the payee or amount. Over the years, I’ve learned that using a pen designed to prevent this can save a lot of trouble. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best pen to avoid check washing, based on my personal experience.

Why Special Ink Matters

The key to preventing check washing lies in the ink. Regular pens use water-based or erasable ink that can be easily removed with solvents or bleach. I found that pens with permanent, waterproof, and chemical-resistant ink work best. These inks bond with the paper fibers, making it nearly impossible to erase or alter the writing without visibly damaging the check.

Types of Ink to Look For

From my research and trials, here are the types of ink that offer the best protection:

  • Gel Ink with Anti-Wash Properties: These pens use gel ink that is quick-drying and resistant to water and chemicals. They provide smooth writing and strong durability.
  • Pigmented Ink Pens: Unlike dye-based inks, pigmented inks contain particles that soak deeply into the paper, resisting fading and tampering.
  • Archival or Document Ink: These inks are often used for legal documents and are designed to be permanent and tamper-proof.

Top Features I Prioritize

When shopping for a pen to protect my checks, I always consider these features:

  • Waterproof and Fade-Resistant Ink: To prevent any water or chemical-based erasing attempts.
  • Fast-Drying: So the ink doesn’t smudge, which can make checks look unprofessional or suspicious.
  • Fine or Medium Tip: For clear, legible writing that’s hard to alter.
  • Comfortable Grip: Since I write multiple checks, a pen that feels good in my hand matters.
  • Reliable Brand: I trust brands known for quality inks because they stand behind their claims.

My Recommended Pens for Check Writing

Based on my experience, these pens have worked well to avoid check washing:

  • Uni-ball Jetstream: This pen’s hybrid ink is waterproof and chemically resistant, plus it writes smoothly.
  • Pilot G2 Gel Pen (Archival Ink): Offers pigmented ink that resists fading and tampering.
  • Sharpie Pen (Fine Point): Unlike the marker, this pen uses permanent ink that won’t bleed through but resists washing.
  • Pentel EnerGel: Known for quick-drying, waterproof gel ink that’s great for checks.

Additional Tips to Protect Your Checks

Using the right pen is just one part of protecting your checks. I also:

  • Write checks with a steady hand and clear printing to avoid ambiguity.
  • Store blank checks securely to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Use secure mailing methods or hand-deliver checks when possible.
  • Regularly monitor my bank statements for any suspicious activity.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best pen to avoid check washing has made me feel more secure about my financial documents. It’s a small step that can prevent big headaches later. When you pick a pen with permanent, waterproof, and chemical-resistant ink, you’re adding a layer of protection against fraud. I hope my buying guide helps you find the right pen for peace of mind every time you write a check.

Author Profile

Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.

In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.