New check format implementation is moved to May 1, 2024
The Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC) moved the implementation of the new check design standard and specifications to May 1, 2024 (CICS OM No. 23-040). Starting this date, Metrobank only accepts checks that comply with the new standard format.
Metrobank checkbooks are compliant with the PCHC's new format. Please look for these identifiable features:
You may order checkbooks in the new format through Metrobank Online or at your branch of account.
Important reminders:
- When depositing checks in the new format, we recommend you write the date of issue using the numeric format in the MM-DD-YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY sequence.
- For checks in the old format, please ensure to deposit or warehouse them BEFORE May 1, 2024.
Read the full PCHC memorandum here.
Read the Memo on Clarification on the Implementation of the New Check Design here.
For questions or concerns, call our 24/7 Contact Center at (02) 88-700-700 or domestic toll-free 1-800-1888-5775.
Click here for the FAQs on the new check design and specifications implementation (CIS OM No. 23-040):
A. When is the implementation date of the New Check Design and Specifications?
The implementation of the new check design is moved from May 2, 2023 to May 1, 2024 to give customers more time to issue, deposit, or warehouse their remaining checks which are in the old format.
B. What are the changes under the new format?
Changes made are as follows:
1. MM-DD-YYYY boxed date format (e.g. 10-13-2023 for October 13, 2023)
2. Peso (₱) sign is moved out to the left side of the box
3. Signature box replaces the signature line
See graphic illustration for your reference.
NEW CHECK DESIGN
OLD CHECK DESIGN
C. What if I used the wrong date format on the new checks after May 1, 2024, such as spelling out the date or putting the day before the month?
Your check will not be accepted for deposit or encashment, and will be returned.
D. Is alphanumeric still acceptable under the new check design?
Yes, you may still use the alphanumeric format for now. However, starting May 1, 2024, we will only accept checks in the numeric format.
We encourage you to practice writing the date in numeric form as early as now to get used to it already.
E. What will happen to my old checks after the implementation date?
These will no longer be accepted for deposit or encashment and will be returned. We encourage you to request for a new checkbook with the new design (see item F).
F. How can I request for a new checkbook? Is the new PCHC-compliant check available in the branch today?
Yes. You may request for a new checkbook with the new PCHC-compliant design from your branch of account or through Metrobank Online.
G. I already issued post-dated checks (PDCs) to a payee (ex. property manager, parking slot owner), will I need to have these replaced?
If the PDCs have been duly stamped “Warehoused” by your payee’s bank before May 1, 2024, these are accepted and do not need to be replaced.
H. I have been issued checks in old design. Will I need to have them replaced?
If you have outstanding checks with the old design, please have these presented and cleared before May 1, 2024, to avoid inconvenience.
I. Are there any changes to the clearing period or cut-off time?
No. Standard check clearing period and cut-off times continue to apply.
