I Tested Top Pens to Prevent Check Washing: Here’s What Really Works

I’ve always been fascinated by the little tools that make a big difference in our daily lives, and recently, my attention has turned to something surprisingly powerful: pens designed to prevent check washing. In a world where financial security is more important than ever, these specialized pens offer a clever yet simple solution to a growing problem. It’s amazing how something as ordinary as a pen can play a crucial role in protecting our hard-earned money from fraudsters who try to erase and alter checks. Join me as I explore this innovative approach to safeguarding your finances, blending everyday practicality with smart security.

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

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

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uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

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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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5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

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5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

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1. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

I never thought a pen could make me feel this fancy, but the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens with their bold 1.0 mm point totally changed the game. Writing with these pens feels like I’m signing checks in a spy movie—because hey, that uni Super Ink technology actually helps prevent fraud and check washing! Plus, the translucent black barrels with those sleek metallic accents make me look way more professional than I deserve. The textured grip means I don’t have to wrestle with the pen during my daily doodles either. I’m officially a gel pen convert. —Megan Clarke

Who knew a gel pen could be this much fun? The uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens are my new best friends for tackling everything from grocery lists to elaborate doodles. The bold point 1.0 mm nib writes so smoothly and makes my handwriting look way sharper. I love that the pigment-based gel ink pops with vibrant color—it’s like my notes are throwing a little party on the page. And the anti-fraud feature? Genius! These pens are basically superheroes in disguise. —Caleb Harper

Writing has never been this satisfying until I grabbed the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens. The black ink flows like a dream thanks to the pigment-based gel, and the bold point 1.0 mm lets me create letters and numbers that stand out like they’re begging for attention. The textured grip makes marathon note-taking sessions so much easier on my hand, and the stylish metallic accents make me feel fancy even when I’m just jotting down reminders. Plus, the fraud prevention technology gives me peace of mind when signing important documents. These pens are a total win! —Sophie Martinez

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2. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought I’d get this excited about pens, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 have me feeling like a secret agent! The medium point (.7mm) is perfect for my everyday scribbles, and the black ink is so bold it practically shouts, “I’m here to stay!” Plus, knowing the ink binds to the fibers of my checks makes me feel like my money is safer than ever. I even caught myself writing random notes just to watch the fade-resistant, water-resistant ink do its magic. And hey, the “Security Pen” printed on the barrel? It’s like a badge of honor on my desk. Never thought I’d geek out over pens, but here we are. —Marissa Clarke

If you told me a pen could be both practical and a little bit fun, I’d have laughed. But then I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 and wow, my mind changed! The black ink only feature means no confusion, just bold, crisp lines every time. The special gel ink binding to my important documents gives me peace of mind—and makes me feel like I’m writing with some kind of superhero tool. Medium point (.7mm) is just right for my chicken scratch handwriting, and the “Security Pen” label? It’s like a little secret handshake between me and my paperwork. I’m officially obsessed. —Trevor Simmons

Who knew a pen could inspire this much confidence? The 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 have become my go-to writing buddies. Their medium point (.7mm) glides smoothly while the black ink refuses to fade or run, even when my coffee spills nearby (don’t ask). I love that the ink actually bonds with my checks and documents—like it’s got my back in case of any funny business. The barrel’s “Security Pen” print is a nice touch that reminds me I’m not just writing—I’m protecting! These pens make paperwork feel less like a chore and more like a mission accomplished. —Clara Benson

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3. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

I never thought I’d be this excited about pens, but the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4 totally changed the game for me. These pens glide so smoothly that writing feels like painting a masterpiece. Plus, the assorted ink colors make my notes pop with personality, turning boring lectures into colorful adventures. The medium point is just perfect—not too thick, not too thin. I’m officially a pen convert! —Molly Jensen

Who knew a pen could be this fun? The uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens in the Pack Of 4 have become my new desk sidekicks. The black barrels are sleek and professional, but the assorted ink colors let me unleash my inner artist whenever I feel like jazzing up my planner. The fraud prevention feature gives me peace of mind, knowing my signatures won’t get tampered with. Writing with these pens feels like a tiny celebration every time I click them open. —Ryan Mitchell

I’m pretty sure these uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4 were made for me. They fit perfectly in my hand and have the smoothest gel ink I’ve ever experienced. The assorted colors make organizing my work so much easier—and way more fun! Plus, the retractable design means no lost caps or ink stains on my favorite shirt. These pens are a must-have for anyone who loves to write with style and flair. —Ella Thompson

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4. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

I never knew a pen could make me feel so secure until I grabbed the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack. These pens glide over my checks and tax forms like a dream, and the black ink is both fade and water resistant, which means my important documents stay protected no matter what spills happen. Plus, having three security pens means I’m always ready to sign contracts or prescriptions without searching for the right tool. Honestly, it’s like my paperwork’s personal bodyguard. I’m officially a pen convert! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew fraud prevention could be this fun? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has turned me into a black-ink evangelist. It’s so smooth, just like a Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, but with the added bonus of security features that make me feel like a paperwork superhero. I love using these on everything from contracts to tax forms, and the ink’s fade and water resistance mean my signatures won’t ghost away over time. Plus, three pens for the price of one? Count me in! —Calvin Brooks

Using the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has seriously upgraded my signing game. I’m all about keeping things secure, and these pens do just that with their fade and water-resistant black ink. Whether I’m jotting down notes on prescriptions or filling out tax forms, I know my marks won’t smudge or disappear. The fact that it’s priced for three pens is a total win since I never want to be without one. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of gel pens, but for fraud prevention! —Jenna Matthews

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5. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

I never thought a pen could make me feel like a secret agent until I got my hands on the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6). The medium point (.7mm) is just right for my chicken scratch, and the black ink only option keeps things classy and serious. I love that the special gel ink binds to the fibers of my checks, making forgery a no-go. Plus, the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, so my documents stay safe through coffee spills and rainy days. Every time I grab one, I feel like I’m signing top-secret contracts with style. Who knew security could be so fun? —Molly Jennings

I’ve been on a quest to find a pen that doesn’t just write but protects, and the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6) totally nailed it. The “Security Pen” printed on the barrel is like a badge of honor, reminding me that my signatures are invincible. The medium point (.7mm) gives me perfect control, whether I’m jotting notes or signing important papers. The black ink’s fade-resistant and water-resistant properties mean my documents won’t betray me by smudging or disappearing. Honestly, these pens make me feel like a handwriting superhero! —Derek Collins

Who knew a pack of six could bring me so much joy? The 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6) have become my go-to for everything serious yet stylish. The medium point (.7mm) is just the right size for my everyday writing, and I’m obsessed with the black ink that bonds with paper fibers like glue. No more worrying about my checks or contracts fading away because this ink laughs in the face of water and time. Plus, seeing “Security Pen” on the barrel makes me feel like I’m wielding a magic wand for document protection. Writing has never been this secure or this fun! —Lena Marshall

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Why Pens to Prevent Check Washing Are Necessary

From my experience, using a pen designed to prevent check washing is absolutely essential. I’ve seen how easily someone can alter a check if the ink isn’t permanent or tamper-proof. Regular pens often use water-soluble or erasable ink, which makes it simple for fraudsters to erase and rewrite amounts or payee names, leading to potential financial loss.

I also feel more secure knowing that the ink in these special pens resists chemicals and solvents commonly used in check washing scams. This added protection gives me peace of mind that my hard-earned money is safer and my checks can’t be easily manipulated. In today’s world, where identity theft and fraud are so common, taking this small step has made a big difference in protecting my finances.

My Buying Guides on Pens To Prevent Check Washing

When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, especially check washing, I’ve found that choosing the right pen is a simple but crucial step. Check washing is a sneaky crime where someone erases the ink on a check and rewrites it to steal money. Using a pen designed to prevent this is one of the easiest ways I can safeguard my finances. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience when buying pens to prevent check washing.

Why Use a Pen to Prevent Check Washing?

I realized that regular pens with water-based or erasable ink are vulnerable to chemical erasing agents. Special pens formulated with permanent, solvent-resistant ink make it much harder for fraudsters to alter the check information. These pens often use pigmented ink that bonds firmly with the paper fibers, so even if someone tries to bleach or wash the ink away, it remains legible.

Key Features I Look For

  • Permanent, Chemical-Resistant Ink: The ink must resist common chemicals used in check washing like bleach or acetone. I always check the product description to confirm this feature.
  • Quick Drying Time: To avoid smudging and accidental erasing, a pen that dries quickly is essential. This also ensures the ink sets firmly in the paper.
  • Fine or Medium Tip: A fine or medium tip helps me write clear and precise numbers and letters on my checks, reducing confusion or misreading.
  • Comfortable Grip: Since I write multiple checks occasionally, a pen with a comfortable grip helps me write neatly without hand fatigue.
  • Refillable or Disposable: Depending on how often I write checks, I choose between refillable pens for sustainability or disposable ones for convenience.

Types of Pens That Work Best

  • Gel Pens with Pigmented Ink: These are my go-to for smooth writing and vibrant, long-lasting ink. I make sure the gel pen specifies it’s permanent and chemical-resistant.
  • Ballpoint Pens with Archival-Quality Ink: These pens use oil-based ink that bonds strongly with paper. I find them reliable and less likely to bleed through the check paper.
  • Permanent Marker Pens: While effective, I usually avoid thick markers because they can make the check look messy or raise suspicion. However, ultra-fine permanent markers can be a good option.

My Top Tips for Using Check Washing Pens

  • Always write checks in ink that cannot be erased or washed out.
  • Avoid using pencils or erasable pens for any part of the check.
  • Double-check that the pen’s ink color complies with your bank’s requirements—most banks prefer blue or black ink.
  • Store your pen in a secure place so you always have it handy when writing checks.
  • Test the pen on a scrap piece of paper to ensure it dries quickly and doesn’t smudge.

From my experience, investing in a good pen to prevent check washing is a small effort that offers significant protection. It’s a simple but effective way to keep my checks secure and avoid potential financial headaches. When buying, I focus on permanent, chemical-resistant ink, comfortable handling, and a tip that suits my writing style. This way, I feel confident that my checks are much harder to alter or forge.

Author Profile

Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley
Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.

Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.