A non-negotiable check is a check-looking paper check or deposit slip that cannot be exchanged for cash. To indicate that it has no monetary value, it commonly includes the words “non-negotiable,” “this is not a check,” or “void” emblazoned across the front.
When setting up direct deposit at work, non-negotiable checks are frequently used. Employers typically want a check or deposit slip for the account into which payment is made. However, checks are made non-negotiable before being passed over to the employer in order to avoid the theft of these blank checks and limit the possibility of check fraud.