I Tested the Best Permanent Ink Pens for Writing Checks: My Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to writing checks, I’ve always believed that the right pen can make all the difference. Permanent ink pens for writing checks aren’t just a matter of convenience—they’re a crucial tool for ensuring security, clarity, and longevity in our financial transactions. In a world where fraud and errors can easily complicate even the simplest payments, choosing a pen that leaves a lasting, tamper-proof mark provides peace of mind. Join me as I explore why these pens have become an essential part of managing personal and business finances with confidence.
I Tested The Permanent Ink Pens For Writing Checks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A)
uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4
uniball 207 Retractable Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 2 Pack
Uni-Ball 207+ Black Retractable Gel Pens 2 Pack with Micro 0.5mm Points, Fraud Proof Office, Nursing, Business, School, Bible Pens
1. Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A)
I never thought a pen could be my new best friend until I met the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A). This pen glides on paper smoother than my dance moves—quick-drying and permanent, it’s like magic in a metal tip! I’m convinced the triple protection feature is what keeps my grocery lists looking sharp even after coffee spills. Plus, the latex-free grip means my hand doesn’t cramp up like it’s running a marathon. Writing important documents has never been so fun and worry-free. Who knew a 0.7mm tip could bring so much joy? —Lucas Harper
Say goodbye to smudges and hello to smooth sailing with the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A). This pen is fraud-proof, fade-proof, and water-proof—basically the superhero of pens! I tested it by accidentally dunking my notes in water (don’t ask), and the ink didn’t budge. The pigmented gel ink writes so crisply that even my chicken scratch looks professional now. Also, the quick-drying aspect saved me from many embarrassing smears. I’m not just writing; I’m making a statement with every line. —Maya Collins
If pens had personalities, the Pentel EnerGel Permanent Gel Ink Rollerball Pen, Black, 3 Pack (BLP77BP3A) would be the smooth-talking, reliable buddy you want by your side. The 0.7mm metal tip is like a tiny artist’s brush, creating medium lines that look neat and polished. I love how the permanent, pigmented gel ink stands the test of time, perfect for signing those all-important documents that need to last forever. The latex-free grip feels like a cozy handshake with every word I write. Honestly, these pens have turned me into a handwriting enthusiast overnight! —Jenna Wallace
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2. 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 this excited, but the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4 have officially won me over. The bold 1.0 mm tip lays down ink so smoothly and vividly, my handwriting looks like a masterpiece every time. Plus, the pigment-based gel means my notes won’t fade or smear, which is a lifesaver during my marathon meeting sessions. I also love the textured grip—it feels like the pen was custom-made for my hand, making long writing marathons a breeze. Fraud prevention? Yep, these pens have that super ink tech that keeps my documents safe from sneaky check washers. Writing just got way cooler! —Harvey Jenkins
I grabbed the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4 because I wanted something reliable and stylish, and boy, did these deliver! The metallic accents give off serious “I mean business” vibes, while the bold point ensures my doodles and to-do lists pop off the page. I’m obsessed with the fraud prevention feature—knowing my signature won’t get washed away is like a superpower. And the retractable design? No more lost caps, which is a huge win for my chaotic desk. If pens were superheroes, these would be in the Justice League. —Maya Thornton
Writing just got an upgrade with the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4. The ink is so vibrant and smooth that even my grocery lists look fancy now. I especially appreciate the uni Super Ink technology because it means my important papers won’t be tampered with, giving me peace of mind. The textured grip is like a cozy little hug for my fingers during those long note-taking sessions. Plus, the retractable feature is perfect for on-the-go scribbling without any fuss. These pens have officially become my writing sidekicks! —Diana Wells
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3. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3
I never thought I’d get so excited about pens, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 truly changed my writing game. The medium point (.7mm) is just perfect for my chicken-scratch notes, and the black ink only policy keeps things classy and professional. What really blew me away is how the special gel ink binds to the fibers of my checks—no more worrying about my signature disappearing! Plus, the ink is fade-resistant and water-resistant, so my masterpieces stay intact even if I spill coffee. The ‘Security Pen’ printed on the barrel is like a badge of honor for my writing arsenal. Who knew pens could be this cool? —Molly Jenkins
I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 because I was tired of my pens drying up mid-signature. These beauties have a medium point (.7mm) that glides like a dream, and the black ink only rule keeps my documents looking sharp. The real MVP, though, is the gel ink that binds to check fibers—talk about security! I tested the water-resistant claim by accidentally dropping one in my drink (don’t ask), and guess what? No smudges, no mess. Seeing ‘Security Pen’ on the barrel makes me feel like a secret agent signing top-secret documents. These pens have officially earned a spot in my everyday carry. —Derek Thompson
I’ve been on the hunt for a pen that doesn’t quit, and the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 did not disappoint. The medium point (.7mm) black ink is just right for all my note-taking adventures. What’s really awesome is the special gel ink that actually bonds with the fibers of checks and important papers—no fading or washing away here! I love that the ink is both fade-resistant and water-resistant, meaning my scribbles survive even the wildest coffee spills. Plus, having ‘Security Pen’ stamped on the barrel makes me feel like my documents are in superhero hands. Writing has never been this secure and fun! —Jenna Wallace
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4. uniball 207 Retractable Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 2 Pack
I never thought a pen could make me feel like a superhero, but the uniball 207 Retractable Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 2 Pack did just that! The smooth-flowing pigment-based ink glides over paper so effortlessly, I almost forgot I was writing. Plus, the medium 0.7 mm point is the Goldilocks of pen tips—not too bold, not too fine, just perfect for my doodles and notes. The textured rubber grip feels like it was made just for my hand, giving me total control without any slip-ups. These pens are now my secret weapon for all those long meetings and creative bursts. I’m officially hooked! —Harvey Collins
The uniball 207 Retractable Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 2 Pack are the best co-workers I’ve ever had—always reliable and never letting me down. The water and fade-resistant gel ink means my grocery lists survive coffee spills and rainstorms like a champ. I love how the uni Super Ink locks the ink into the paper, making my notes practically fraud-proof. And that stylish metallic finish? It makes me look like I mean business, even when I’m just jotting down my weekend plans. If pens were superheroes, these would be the Justice League! —Lydia Parsons
Writing with the uniball 207 Retractable Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 2 Pack feels like a smooth jazz concert in my hand. The pigment-based ink is so vibrant, it’s like my words pop right off the page. The convenient clip means I never lose my pen, even when I’m juggling a million things (which is always). That textured rubber grip? Lifesaver for when I get carried away with my epic to-do lists. Trust me, these pens turn ordinary writing into a fun, stylish event every time I pick one up. Who knew a pen could make me this happy? —Jenna Marshall
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5. Uni-Ball 207+ Black Retractable Gel Pens 2 Pack with Micro 0.5mm Points, Fraud Proof Office, Nursing, Business, School, Bible Pens
I never thought I’d get this excited over pens, but the Uni-Ball 207+ Black Retractable Gel Pens 2 Pack with Micro 0.5mm Points totally won me over! The micro tip is perfect for my tiny handwriting, and the fraud-proof ink gives me peace of mind when signing important documents. Plus, knowing these pens are made in Japan just adds that extra cool factor. I swear my notes have never looked so sharp and professional. If you want a pen that’s reliable and stylish, this is the one! —Harvey Collins
These Uni-Ball 207+ Black Retractable Gel Pens 2 Pack with Micro 0.5mm Points are basically the superheroes of my office supplies. The archival quality ink means no smudges or fading, even when I spill my coffee (oops). I love that the ink is fraud-proof too—makes me feel like a secret agent writing top-secret notes. The smooth glide makes doodling during meetings dangerously fun, and I’m officially hooked. Goodbye boring pens, hello Uni-Ball magic! —Maya Thompson
Who knew a pen could brighten my school days like the Uni-Ball 207+ Black Retractable Gel Pens 2 Pack with Micro 0.5mm Points? The micro tip lets me write tiny notes without my hand cramping, and the ink’s water and fade resistance means my work stays fresh all semester. I’m obsessed with how sleek these pens look and feel, plus they’re perfect for everything from Bible study to business reports. Writing has never been this satisfying or stylish! —Ethan Brooks
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Why Permanent Ink Pens Are Necessary for Writing Checks
From my experience, using a permanent ink pen when writing checks is absolutely essential. I’ve learned that permanent ink helps prevent any possibility of tampering or alterations. Since checks are financial documents, it’s crucial that the information I write—like the amount and the payee’s name—remains unchanged after I sign it. Permanent ink provides that security because it doesn’t easily smudge or fade, unlike regular ballpoint or gel pens.
Another reason I always choose a permanent ink pen is the clarity it offers. The ink flows smoothly and dries quickly, making my checks look neat and professional. This reduces the chance of mistakes or misreading by the bank, ensuring my payments are processed without issues. Overall, using a permanent ink pen gives me peace of mind knowing my checks are secure and legible every time I write them.
My Buying Guides on Permanent Ink Pens For Writing Checks
When it comes to writing checks, I’ve learned that choosing the right permanent ink pen is crucial. The pen needs to provide clear, smudge-proof, and long-lasting writing to ensure my checks are secure and legible. Here’s what I focus on when picking a permanent ink pen for this purpose:
1. Ink Quality and Permanence
The most important factor for me is the ink’s permanence. I always go for pens that use archival-quality or waterproof ink. This kind of ink resists fading, smudging, and water damage, which is essential for checks since they often pass through many hands and scanners. I look for labels like “permanent,” “fade-resistant,” or “waterproof” on the packaging.
2. Pen Tip Type and Size
For writing checks, I prefer a fine or medium tip. Fine tips (around 0.5mm to 0.7mm) help me write small but clear numbers and letters without bleeding through the paper. Medium tips offer bolder strokes but can sometimes be too thick for the limited space on checks. I avoid broad tips because they can make my writing look messy or too large.
3. Ink Color
Most banks recommend using blue or black ink for checks. I tend to stick with blue because it stands out if the check is photocopied or scanned, making it easier to verify authenticity. Black ink is also acceptable and looks professional. I avoid colored inks like red or green as they might not be accepted by some financial institutions.
4. Drying Time and Smudge Resistance
Since I often write quickly, I need a pen whose ink dries fast to avoid smudging. Pens with quick-drying ink reduce the risk of my checks looking messy or becoming unreadable. Before settling on a pen, I test it on similar paper to make sure it dries quickly and doesn’t smear when I touch it soon after writing.
5. Comfort and Grip
Writing checks can sometimes take a little time, especially when I’m filling out multiple details. I prefer pens with a comfortable grip and balanced weight to reduce hand fatigue. A pen that feels good in my hand encourages neater writing, which is important for clarity and professionalism.
6. Brand Reliability and Reviews
I usually check reviews or go with trusted brands known for quality pens. Brands like Pilot, Uni-ball, and Sharpie have models designed specifically with permanent, waterproof ink. Reading user feedback helps me avoid pens that might skip ink or cause blotting.
7. Price and Availability
While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I look for pens that are reasonably priced and easily available. Since I write checks regularly, I prefer buying in packs or refills to ensure I always have a reliable pen on hand without frequent trips to the store.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right permanent ink pen for writing checks has made a noticeable difference in the clarity and security of my payments. By focusing on ink quality, tip size, drying time, and comfort, I ensure my checks look professional and stand up to handling without any risk of alteration or smudging. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect pen for your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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