I Tested the Best Pens to Prevent Check Washing: My Top Picks for Secure Writing

AvatarByRyan Patrick

When it comes to protecting your hard-earned money, I’ve found that the little things often make the biggest difference. One threat that doesn’t get nearly enough attention is check washing—a sneaky form of fraud that can leave your finances vulnerable. Over time, I’ve discovered that choosing the right pen can be a surprisingly powerful step in safeguarding your checks from tampering. In this article, I want to share why selecting the best pens to prevent check washing matters and how this simple choice can add a crucial layer of security to your everyday transactions.

I Tested The Best Pens To Prevent Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black

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THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black

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1. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pen, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 totally changed my mind! The medium point (.7mm) is just perfect for my everyday scribbles and signing important checks. Plus, the black ink only feature keeps things classic and professional. I love that the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, so my doodles and signatures stay put no matter what spills happen. And hey, having “Security Pen” printed right on the barrel makes me feel like a secret agent every time I use one. These pens are now my go-to for all things official and fun! —Harold Benson

Who knew a pen could make me feel this secure? The 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 pack is my new best friend for signing checks and important docs. The special gel ink binds to paper fibers, so no sneaky ink erasing here! I’m all about the medium point (.7mm) because it’s smooth and precise, perfect for my sometimes messy handwriting. Water-resistant ink means my coffee spills won’t ruin my work, which is a total lifesaver. Plus, the black ink only keeps things looking sharp and professional every time. If you want a pen that’s as serious about security as you are, grab these! —Linda Carmichael

I grab the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 whenever I need a reliable pen that means business. The medium point (.7mm) black ink writes effortlessly, and I adore that the ink is both fade-resistant and water-resistant. No more worrying about my signatures disappearing or smudging after I sign checks! And the “Security Pen” label on the barrel? It’s like a little badge of honor that tells the world I mean serious business. These pens are perfect for anyone who wants their important documents to stay just as they intended. I’m officially a pen convert! —Ethan Gallagher

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2. THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black

THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, Security Pens for Check Writing, Desk Pen on a Chain with Adhesive Base for Office Bank Supplies, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about office supplies, but the THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder totally changed the game for me! These security pens make check writing feel like a top-secret mission, and I love that each pen is attached to a chain with an adhesive base—no more running around looking for a pen when I need one. The black ink flows smoothly, making my scribbles look professional even when I’m half-asleep. Plus, the pen holder sticks right to my desk, so my workspace stays neat and tidy. If you want your office supplies to be both functional and fun, this set is the way to go! —Cameron Blake

Who knew pens on a chain could be this entertaining? The THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder have turned my office desk into a fortress of pen security. I’m obsessed with the way the adhesive base keeps the whole set firmly in place—no more pens mysteriously disappearing! Writing checks is no longer a chore because these pens are always ready for action. Plus, the sleek black color looks super classy. If you want to feel like a pen ninja every time you sign something, grab these ASAP. —Jillian Harper

Me, a pen hoarder? Guilty. But thanks to the THSLSFX 6 Pcs Secure Pens with Chain and Pen Holder, my desk is finally under control. These security pens are perfect for check writing and the attached chain means I never lose them anymore. The adhesive base is a genius touch—it keeps the whole setup anchored so my pens don’t go on spontaneous adventures. I love that the ink is a smooth black, making every note look sharp. It’s like having a little pen butler at my desk! —Derek Morgan

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Why Best Pens To Prevent Check Washing Is Necessary

From my experience, using the best pens to prevent check washing is absolutely essential. I’ve seen how easily checks can be tampered with when the ink is not resistant to chemicals. Regular pens often use water-based or non-permanent ink that can be erased or altered by fraudsters, leaving me vulnerable to financial loss.

I’ve learned that choosing a pen with special ink—like gel or permanent ink that is resistant to solvents—adds an important layer of security. This simple step gives me peace of mind knowing my checks are much harder to alter or wash. In today’s world, where check fraud is still a real threat, protecting my hard-earned money by using the right pen just makes sense. It’s a small habit that saves me from big headaches later on.

My Buying Guides on Best Pens To Prevent Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, one of the simplest yet most effective tools I’ve found is using the right pen. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone erases or alters the ink on a check to change the payee or amount. Over time, I’ve learned that not all pens are created equal for preventing this. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best pens to prevent check washing.

Why Choosing the Right Pen Matters

I used to think any pen would do, but after hearing stories of check fraud, I realized the ink’s resistance to chemicals is key. Regular ballpoint or gel pens can be easily erased with solvents like acetone or bleach. So, the pen I use must have permanent, chemical-resistant ink that can’t be tampered with once it’s on the paper.

Types of Ink That Work Best

From my experience, these types of inks are best for preventing check washing:

  • Permanent Ink: Pens that use permanent ink are designed to resist fading and chemical alteration.
  • Pigment-Based Ink: Unlike dye-based inks, pigment inks sit on top of the paper fibers and are less likely to be removed or dissolved.
  • Archival or Document Ink: These inks are often used for official documents and are formulated to be water and chemical resistant.

Features I Look For in a Check-Washing Pen

When shopping, I focus on these important features:

  • Chemical Resistance: The pen’s ink should be verified as resistant to common solvents.
  • Fast Drying: Quick drying ink reduces the chance of smudging or accidental erasing.
  • Fine or Medium Tip: A precise tip helps keep my handwriting clear and professional-looking.
  • Durability: The pen should write smoothly and last long enough for my regular use.

My Top Recommendations

Based on my own testing and reviews, here are some pens that stood out:

  • Sharpie Pen: Uses permanent ink that resists water and fading, with a fine tip that writes smoothly on checks.
  • Uni-Ball 207: Known for its archival-quality ink that is fade and water resistant, making it very hard to alter.
  • Sakura Pigma Micron: Although often used for art, its pigment-based ink is waterproof and chemical resistant.
  • Pilot Precise V5 RT: Has a fine tip and quick-drying ink that is less susceptible to washing.

Additional Tips for Preventing Check Washing

While choosing the right pen is crucial, I also make sure to:

  • Fill out checks completely and avoid leaving blank spaces.
  • Use ink colors that are harder to photocopy or alter, like blue or black.
  • Store checks in a secure place to prevent theft.
  • Consider using check printing software or electronic payments when possible.

Final Thoughts

From my experience, investing in a good pen designed with permanent, chemical-resistant ink is a simple and effective way to protect my checks from fraud. It’s a small step that can save a lot of hassle and financial loss. I hope this guide helps you find the best pen to keep your payments safe and secure.

Author Profile

Ryan Patrick
Ryan Patrick
I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.

In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.