If you have a check that is several months old and has not been cashed and thus not cleared the bank, you should contact the payor to ask them to cash the check.  If you no longer expect it to ever be cashed, you should void or back it out of your bank register, or if you have a check that was lost and you need to reissue the check, here are the recommended steps:
 

  1. Enter a new Expense in your bank register with today's date.

  2. Enter the data from the original check as an exact copy so it matches:

    1. Number of lines(splits)

    2. Pay to the Order

    3. Category

    4. Premise

  3. Enter the remaining fields:

    1. Use DIRECT DEBIT as the check number

    2. For the amount, enter the same amount as the original check but enter as a NEGATIVE value. 

    3. In the Memo write: "Void Check #xxxx" (replay x with original check number).

  4. SAVE

Now that the offsetting expense is entered using the steps above, you can clear both the original expense and the new expense as you complete your Bank Reconciliation.  As you complete the Bank Reconciliation:

  • Select the original historical check you are backing out and no longer wanting to remain unreconciled.  

  • Also select the new "negative" value expense you just entered. 

 These 2 expenses will offset each other (ie: $200 and -$200 = $0).