Tutorial for a Check Register

Credit and debit cards are convenient ways to pay for everyday purchases, but if you don't keep a written record of your purchases as you make them, you could run into problems if you spend more money than you have in your account. Your bank could charge you overdraft fees of $35 or more, depending on its policies. Keep a record of your purchases using a check register to avoid overdraft fees.

• 1

  Get a check register. You can buy one at an office supply store, but your bank might give them to customers for free. Go to your local bank branch and ask for a register. If you order checks, you might have received one with your most recent order.

• 2

  Determine the current balance for your account and record it on the top line in your register.

• 3

  Write the date of the transaction in the "Date" column so you can refer to your checkbook if you want to find information about a specific transaction later. Record the check number for any checks that you write in the column to the left of the "Date" column so you know which check you used for which purchase.

• 4

  Write down a brief description of what you bought or where you bought it in the "Transaction Description" column on the same line. This will help you remember what your purchase was later and help you see how much money you spend and on what.

• 5

  Write down how much you spent in the "Payment" or "Debit" column, which is separated into dollars and cents.

• 6

  Subtract your purchase amount from your account balance. This is your new account balance.

• 7

  Record any deposits you make into your account, such as paychecks, gifts or refunds. Write down the date and the description and record the amount in the "Deposits" or "Credits" column and add it to your account balance.