Can You Fax a Check? Safety, Rules & Secure Methods (2026)

By David Thompson · Published October 2, 2025 · Updated March 9, 2026 · 4 min read

It’s one of the most common questions we see in our support logs: "Can I fax a check?"

The short answer is: Yes, you physically can. The fax machine (or app) will transmit the image.

The real answer depends entirely on why you are sending it. Are you trying to get paid (direct deposit)? Or are you trying to move money (deposit/payment)?

Here is the definitive 2026 breakdown of when faxing a check is smart, and when it’s a waste of time.

1. Faxing for Direct Deposit (The "Voided Check")

Verdict: ✅ Recommended & Common

If you just started a new job, are setting up a mortgage, or authorizing automatic payments for a gym membership, they likely asked for a "Voided Check."

They don't want your money. They need the Routing Number and Account Number printed at the bottom of the check to set up an electronic link (ACH) to your bank.

How to do it safely:

1. Get a pen: Use blue or black ink.
2. Write "VOID": In large letters, write VOID across the center of the check.
   • Critical: Do not cover the numbers at the bottom! If they can't read the routing number, the fax is useless.
3. Use mFax.to: Snap a photo and send it securely.

2. Faxing to Pay a Bill

Verdict: ⚠️ Possible, but Old School

Believe it or not, some insurance companies, government agencies, and utility providers still accept payments via fax.

This creates what is known as a Remotely Created Check (RCC). When you fax them your signed check, they use the data on it to create a digital "demand draft" against your account. It functions exactly like a paper check, but it’s processed electronically.

• The Risk: You are handing over your full banking credentials.
• The Rule: Only do this with established, trusted vendors. Never fax a check to a "craigslist seller" or unknown entity.

3. Faxing to Deposit Money to Your Account

Verdict: ❌ Do Not Do This

You generally cannot fax a check to your bank to deposit funds into your own account.

In the past, some credit unions allowed this. In 2026, almost no one does. Banks use the Check 21 Act standards, which usually require a high-quality color image or the physical paper. A standard black-and-white fax (TIFF format) strips away the security features (watermarks, microprinting) the bank needs to verify the check isn't a fake.

What to do instead: Use your bank's mobile app. Their "Mobile Deposit" feature uses specific camera software to validate the security features that a fax machine destroys.

The Security Checklist: Protecting Your Data

If you are sending a check (especially for direct deposit), you are transmitting sensitive financial data. Treat it with care.

1. Stop using public fax machines

We cannot stress this enough. A "Voided Check" contains everything a thief needs to print fake checks linked to your account. Leaving that paper in a FedEx Office tray or on a hotel fax machine is dangerous.

The Fix: Use mFax.to. It turns your smartphone into a secure fax terminal. Your banking info stays on your device, encrypted, and goes directly to the recipient.

2. Always use a Cover Page

Never send a check "naked." In mFax.to, you can easily add a cover page.

• To: Specific Person (e.g., "Attn: Sarah in HR")
• From: Your Name
• Note: "Confidential: Voided check for direct deposit setup."

3. Verify the Number

Before you hit send, triple-check the fax number. A typo could send your bank account number to a random fax machine at a car dealership.

Related Resources

For related guidance, see our how to fax medical records guide and learn about HIPAA compliant faxing for the most secure transmission of sensitive documents.

Summary

Need to send that voided check right now? Don't drive to a print shop. Grab your phone, take a picture, and send it securely with mFax.to.

Start Faxing Now →