A cheque book is a booklet issued by a bank that contains multiple cheque leaves. It allows you to make non-cash payments directly from your bank account to individuals, businesses, or organisations.
This guide explains what a cheque book is, how to apply for it, types of cheque leaves, charges, and important rules in simple Indian English.
Quick Overview
- Used for: Making payments from bank account
- Issued by: Bank (Savings/Current account)
- Modes to apply: Net banking, mobile app, ATM, branch
- Validity: Cheques are usually valid for 3 months
- Availability: Depends on bank policy
What Is a Cheque Book?
A cheque book contains several cheque leaves, each of which can be used to instruct your bank to pay a specific amount to a person or organisation.
Each cheque includes:
- Account holder name
- Account number
- IFSC & bank details
- Cheque number
- Date, amount, and signature
Types of Cheques in a Cheque Book
- Bearer Cheque: Paid to whoever presents it
- Order Cheque: Paid to a specific person
- Account Payee Cheque: Credited only to payee’s bank account
- Crossed Cheque: Cannot be encashed at counter
- Post-Dated Cheque: Date is in the future
How to Apply for a Cheque Book
Method 1: Through Net Banking
- Login to your bank’s net banking
- Go to Cheque Book Request / Services
- Select account number
- Choose number of cheque leaves
- Submit request
Cheque book is usually delivered to your registered address.
Method 2: Through Mobile Banking App
- Open your bank’s mobile app
- Select Cheque Book Request
- Choose account & number of leaves
- Confirm request
Method 3: Through ATM
- Visit your bank’s ATM
- Insert debit card & enter PIN
- Select Cheque Book Request
- Confirm account details
Method 4: By Visiting Bank Branch
- Visit your home branch
- Fill cheque book request slip
- Submit at counter
Cheque Book Charges (General Idea)
- Many banks offer free cheque books for savings accounts (limited leaves)
- Charges may apply after free limit
- Charges vary by bank and account type
Current accounts usually have higher or unlimited cheque facilities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Cheque Book?
- Usually 3–7 working days
- May vary by location and bank
Important Cheque Book Rules
- Cheques are generally valid for 3 months from date
- Always use black or blue ink
- Signature must match bank records
- Do not overwrite amounts or dates
- Cancel unused cheques properly (write “CANCELLED”)
Lost Cheque Book – What to Do?
- Inform your bank immediately
- Request stop cheque for unused leaves
- File written request if needed
- Apply for a new cheque book
Common Problems & Solutions
Cheque bounced
- Insufficient balance
- Signature mismatch
- Incorrect date or amount
Cheque book not received
- Check address in bank records
- Track request via net banking or branch
Wrong details printed
- Contact branch immediately for correction
FAQs
Is cheque book free?
A. Many banks provide a limited number of free cheque leaves. Charges may apply after that.
Can I use cheque without balance?
A. No. Cheque will bounce if there is insufficient balance.
Can I issue a cheque to myself?
A. Yes, it is called a self cheque.
Is cheque still used in 2026?
A. Yes, cheques are still used for rent, government work, and official payments, though digital payments are more common.
Security Tips
- Keep cheque book in a safe place
- Never sign blank cheques
- Tear and destroy cancelled cheques
- Regularly check bank statements
Conclusion
A cheque book is a traditional yet important banking tool for making secure, trackable payments. Knowing how to apply, use, and safeguard your cheque book helps avoid errors and financial loss.
