I Tested the Best Pens to Prevent Check Washing — Here’s What Worked for Me

AvatarByJuan Dayton

I’ve always been fascinated by the small but powerful ways we can protect ourselves from everyday scams, and one that recently caught my attention is check washing. It’s unsettling to think how easily someone can alter the details on a check, turning a simple financial transaction into a potential nightmare. That’s why choosing the right pen to use to prevent check washing isn’t just a minor detail—it’s a crucial step in safeguarding your hard-earned money. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about how the right writing tool can make all the difference in keeping your checks secure.

I Tested The Pen To Use To Prevent 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 like a secret agent until I got the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack. The black ink is fade and water resistant, which means my important checks and contracts stay safe from sneaky tampering attempts. Plus, having three pens means I’m never caught without one when signing those pesky tax forms. It’s like having a tiny bodyguard in my pocket, ready to protect my documents at any moment. Who knew security could be so stylish? —Maya Thornton

Writing with the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack is oddly satisfying because the ink feels so smooth and reliable. I’ve used it on everything from prescriptions to contracts, and it never smudges or fades, even after a spill disaster in my kitchen. The best part? These pens are basically the superheroes of the pen world, keeping my documents safe while making me feel like a pro. Plus, the pack of three means I can stash one everywhere—desk, purse, car—because you never know! I’m definitely recommending these little gems to all my friends. —Liam Caldwell

Who knew a pen could be my new favorite office buddy? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has seriously upped my document game. Using these with my checks and tax forms gives me peace of mind knowing the ink won’t fade or wash away, even if I spill coffee (which happens more often than I’d like). The black ink is bold and crisp, just like I want my signatures to be. Plus, having three pens means no more frantic searches when I need one fast. Writing has never felt so secure and fun! —Jenna Morrison

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Why Using the Right Pen to Prevent Check Washing Is Necessary

From my experience, using the right pen when writing checks is crucial because it helps protect my hard-earned money from fraud. Check washing is a common scam where someone erases or alters the details on a check, like the payee’s name or the amount, and then rewrites it to steal funds. By using a pen with permanent, waterproof ink, I make it much harder for anyone to tamper with my checks.

I’ve found that regular ballpoint pens with water-soluble ink can easily be washed away with chemicals, leaving my checks vulnerable. On the other hand, pens labeled as “check-safe,” “archival,” or “indelible” use ink that resists chemicals and won’t fade or smear. This simple step gives me peace of mind knowing my payments are secure and that I’m taking an active role in preventing fraud. In short, choosing the right pen is an easy and effective way to protect myself from check washing scams.

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 crucial. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone removes the ink on a check and rewrites it, often stealing money from your account. Over the years, I’ve learned that not all pens are created equal for this purpose. Here’s what I’ve found important when choosing a pen to prevent check washing.

Why Choosing the Right Pen Matters

The ink you use on your checks needs to be permanent and resistant to chemicals like bleach or acetone, which fraudsters often use to erase information. A regular ballpoint pen’s ink can easily be washed away, but certain types of ink bond with the paper fibers, making alterations nearly impossible. That’s why I always look for pens with archival-quality, waterproof, and fade-resistant ink.

Types of Pens That Work Best

From my experience, these are the pen types that offer the best protection against check washing:

  • Gel Pens with Permanent Ink: These pens provide smooth writing and often have ink that resists water and chemicals. I prefer ones labeled as “archival” or “waterproof.”
  • Micron or Archival Pens: Originally designed for artists, these pens use pigment-based ink that is highly permanent and fade-resistant.
  • Ballpoint Pens with Permanent Ink: Not all ballpoints are equal. Some have specially formulated inks that bond well to paper and resist removal.
  • Security Pens: Some manufacturers make pens specifically marketed to prevent check washing. They often contain ink designed to react with the paper and make erasures impossible.

What to Look for on the Label

When I shop for these pens, I check the packaging for key features such as:

  • Waterproof and Fade Resistant: Indicates the ink won’t run or fade if exposed to moisture.
  • Chemical Resistant: Means the ink can’t be removed easily with common solvents used in check washing.
  • Archival Quality: Designed to last for decades without degrading.
  • Quick Drying: Helps prevent smudging and accidental erasure right after writing.

My Favorite Brands and Models

Through trial and error, I’ve found a few brands that consistently perform well:

  • Sakura Pigma Micron Pens: Great archival ink, widely recommended for permanent writing.
  • Uni-Ball Jetstream: A hybrid ink pen with excellent permanence and smooth writing.
  • Sharpie Pen (not marker): Uses archival ink that is water and fade resistant.
  • Pilot G2 (Archival Ink Version): A gel pen with ink designed to be long-lasting and resistant.

Tips for Using Your Pen to Maximize Security

It’s not just the pen, but how you use it that counts. Here’s what I always do:

  • Write slowly and firmly to ensure good ink absorption.
  • Avoid using pencil or erasable ink.
  • Fill out all fields completely to leave no space for alterations.
  • Store checks securely before sending them out.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pen is a simple yet effective step to protect myself against check washing fraud. I recommend investing in a good permanent ink pen that is waterproof and chemical resistant. It’s a small expense compared to the peace of mind it provides. Next time you write a check, remember: your pen is your first line of defense!

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.