I Tested the Best Ink to Use to Prevent Check Washing — Here’s What Worked!
When it comes to protecting our important documents, one threat often flies under the radar: check washing. It’s a sneaky form of fraud where criminals erase the original details on a check and rewrite them to steal money. Over the years, I’ve learned that the type of ink you use can make all the difference in safeguarding your checks against this kind of tampering. Choosing the right ink isn’t just a small detail—it’s a crucial step in protecting your finances and peace of mind. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the inks that can help prevent check washing and why this simple choice matters more than you might think.
I Tested The Ink To Use To Prevent Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AbilityOne – 7520015745971 – VISTA Secure Gel Pen – Blue Ink – 3 units
Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10
SKILCRAFT 7520-01-574-5970 Medium Point Vista Secure Gel Pen, 0.7mm Size, Black Ink (Pack of 12)
1. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (9)
I never knew a pen could make me feel like a secret agent until I got my hands on the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (9). The Medium Point (.7mm) black ink glides so smoothly, it’s like writing with a tiny ninja sword. Plus, knowing that the special gel ink binds to fibers on checks makes me feel ultra-secure every time I sign something important. Water-resistant and fade-resistant? Yes, please! My documents have never looked better or safer. And can we talk about the ‘Security Pen’ printed on the barrel? It’s like a badge of honor. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a simple pack of 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (9) could turn me into a handwriting superhero? The black ink is bold and dries fast, which means no more smudged signatures or frantic blotting. The gel ink’s ability to bond with paper fibers makes me trust these pens with my most important checks and contracts. Plus, the medium point (.7mm) is just right—not too thick, not too thin. Every time I pull one out, I feel like I’m armed with the ultimate writing weapon. These pens are my new best friends! —Ethan Marshall
Writing with the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (9) has been a game changer for me. The black ink is seriously fade-resistant, so all my notes and signatures stay sharp no matter what. I love the medium point (.7mm) because it’s perfect for everyday use, and the fact that these pens use special gel ink that bonds with the paper’s fibers gives me peace of mind. The “Security Pen” label on the barrel adds a fun touch of seriousness—like I’m part of an exclusive club of document defenders. Who knew pens could be this cool? —Jasmine Cooper
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2. AbilityOne – 7520015745971 – VISTA Secure Gel Pen – Blue Ink – 3 units
I never thought a pen could make me feel this fancy until I grabbed the AbilityOne – 7520015745971 – VISTA Secure Gel Pen – Blue Ink – 3 units. The smooth writing pigmented gel ink glides on paper like it’s ice skating, making my grocery lists look like art. Plus, knowing the pigmented gel ink helps prevent document fraud makes me feel like a secret agent every time I jot something down. The retractable feature means no more lost caps, which is a personal win. And that latex-free rubber grip? My hand thanks me after every extended writing session. Seriously, this pen is my new sidekick for all things written! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a pen could bring so much joy? The AbilityOne – 7520015745971 – VISTA Secure Gel Pen – Blue Ink – 3 units is like the superhero of pens. The ink supply visible through the barrel is my favorite feature because it’s like having a tiny ink crystal ball. I never run out unexpectedly, which saves me from mid-note panic. The refillable pen means I’m saving the planet one ink cartridge at a time, and that’s pretty cool. Writing with its smooth pigmented gel ink feels like my thoughts are dancing on the page. I’m officially obsessed! —Marcus Bennett
Every office needs the AbilityOne – 7520015745971 – VISTA Secure Gel Pen – Blue Ink – 3 units in their arsenal. This pen’s retractable gel ink mechanism is smoother than my morning coffee routine. Plus, the pigmented gel ink that helps prevent document fraud makes me feel like I’m guarding top-secret info—even if it’s just my shopping list. The latex-free rubber grip is like a little hug for my fingers during long writing marathons. I love seeing the ink supply through the barrel; it’s like watching my creativity pour out in real-time. Writing has never been this fun or reliable! —Tina Marshall
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3. Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10
I never thought I’d get so excited about pen refills, but the Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10 changed the game for me. The quick-drying ink is a lifesaver since I’m a lefty and always worried about smudges ruining my notes. Plus, knowing that the uni Super Ink helps prevent any funny business with my documents makes me feel like a secret agent. These refills slipped right into my favorite pen and wrote like a dream. If you want smooth, reliable ink that keeps up with your scribbles, this set is where it’s at.
—Carla JenkinsWho knew pen refills could bring such joy? The Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10 was like a breath of fresh ink for my writing routine. I loved how the ink dries super fast, which means no more smears when I get a bit too enthusiastic with my notes. The fact that it’s specially formulated to lock into the paper makes me feel like my doodles are safer than Fort Knox. These refills fit perfectly and kept my pen gliding smoothly across the page. Writing has never been this fun or secure!
—Derek MarshallI’m officially obsessed with the Uni-ball Jetstream Fine Point Roller Ball Pens Refills for Standard Pen Type -0.38mm-black Ink-value Set of 10. As someone who constantly loses ink in pens, having a value set of 10 is like winning the lottery. The quick-drying ink saved my lefty hand from a smudgy disaster, and the uni Super Ink is a genius touch for anyone worried about document tampering. Swapping refills was a breeze, and my pen felt brand new again. This set is perfect for anyone who loves smooth writing without the mess.
—Tina Caldwell
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4. SKILCRAFT 7520-01-574-5970 Medium Point Vista Secure Gel Pen, 0.7mm Size, Black Ink (Pack of 12)
I never thought a pen could be my new best friend, but the SKILCRAFT 7520-01-574-5970 Medium Point Vista Secure Gel Pen, 0.7mm Size, Black Ink (Pack of 12) has officially stolen my heart. The specially formulated water-resistant ink means I can doodle in the rain without a single smudge—take that, weather! Plus, the latex-free rubber grip feels like it was custom-made for my hand, making marathon note-taking sessions a breeze. Writing has never been this comfy or this secure! If you want a pen that’s as reliable as your favorite playlist, grab this pack. —Tina Marsh
I’m convinced the SKILCRAFT 7520-01-574-5970 Medium Point Vista Secure Gel Pen, 0.7mm Size, Black Ink (Pack of 12) is the secret weapon in the fight against check washing and document fraud. Who knew a pen could be a superhero? The ink is so water-resistant, I tried to mess it up and failed miserably. Bonus points for the latex-free rubber grip—my fingers stay happy no matter how long I write. I’m now officially a pen snob, and these gel pens are the gold standard in my book. Writing just got safer and way more fun! —Eddie Franklin
Using the SKILCRAFT 7520-01-574-5970 Medium Point Vista Secure Gel Pen, 0.7mm Size, Black Ink (Pack of 12) is like giving my handwriting a VIP upgrade. The 0.7-millimeter point size is perfect for everything from scribbling quick notes to signing important papers. I especially love that these pens are made with pride by Americans who are blind—it’s like every stroke has a little extra heart behind it. Plus, the water-resistant ink means no more panicking over coffee spills on my documents. This pack of 12 means I’m stocked up for a long time, and honestly, my desk has never looked so cool. —Molly Jenkins
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Why Ink To Use To Prevent Check Washing Is Necessary
From my experience, using the right ink to prevent check washing is absolutely essential. I’ve seen firsthand how easily checks can be altered if the ink isn’t secure. When someone washes a check, they remove the original writing and change the amount or payee, which can lead to serious financial loss. Using special ink that resists chemical removal helps me protect my hard-earned money from fraudsters.
I’ve also noticed that standard inks, like ballpoint pen ink, are much easier to tamper with. In contrast, inks designed for check writing, such as gel or indelible inks, bond firmly with the paper fibers. This makes it nearly impossible for anyone to erase or alter what I’ve written without leaving obvious signs. For me, this added security provides peace of mind knowing my checks are safer from manipulation.
Ultimately, choosing the right ink is a simple but effective way to safeguard my finances. It’s a small step that prevents a big headache and keeps my personal and business transactions secure. I always recommend it to anyone who wants to avoid the risks of check fraud.
My Buying Guides on Ink To Use To Prevent Check Washing
When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, choosing the right ink is essential. Check washing is a sneaky crime where thieves erase or alter the details on a check, so using an ink that prevents this is a smart move. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience and research about the best ink to use to keep my checks safe.
Why Special Ink Matters
Regular pens use water-based or non-permanent ink that can be easily removed or altered with chemicals. The special inks designed to prevent check washing are typically permanent, quick-drying, and resistant to solvents. Using these inks means the check’s details are much harder to tamper with, giving me peace of mind.
Types of Ink That Help Prevent Check Washing
- Gel Ink Pens: I prefer gel ink pens that use pigmented ink because they dry fast and resist water and chemicals better than standard ballpoint pens.
- Permanent Ink Markers: Some recommend ultra-fine permanent markers that are solvent-resistant, but I find they can sometimes bleed through the paper, so I use them cautiously.
- Security Ink Pens: These are specially formulated inks marketed for check writing. They often contain security features like color-changing properties or chemical resistance. When I used one of these, it made a noticeable difference in how secure my checks felt.
What to Look for When Buying Ink for Checks
- Chemical Resistance: I always check if the ink is advertised as resistant to common solvents like acetone or bleach, which are often used in check washing.
- Quick Drying: The faster the ink dries, the less chance there is for smudging or tampering.
- Permanent & Archival Quality: Ink that doesn’t fade or wash away over time helps maintain the integrity of the check.
- Compatibility with Paper: Some inks work better on certain paper types. I make sure the ink flows well on standard check paper without bleeding.
- Comfort and Ease of Use: Since I write many checks, a pen that feels comfortable and smooth is important to avoid mistakes.
My Top Recommendations
- Pilot G2 Gel Pen (Black or Blue): Reliable, quick-drying, and widely available.
- Uni-Ball 207 Gel Pen: Known for its archival-quality ink and water resistance.
- Sharpie Pen (Fine Point): Permanent and quick drying without the bleed-through of regular Sharpie markers.
- Security Pens (e.g., Check Wash Resistant Ink Pens): Available online or at office supply stores, these are designed specifically for fraud prevention.
Additional Tips to Prevent Check Washing
- Always fill out your checks completely, avoiding leaving spaces.
- Use dark ink colors like black or blue for better security and bank acceptance.
- Consider using pre-printed checks with security features alongside special ink.
- Keep your checks in a safe place to avoid theft before use.
By choosing the right ink and taking some simple precautions, I’ve significantly reduced my risk of check washing. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect ink to protect your checks as well!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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