+ +, Ransom, for an effective solution in a well-written question... and to various others in this thread for alternate ideas.

But, really, , responding to the title, the better way to write a check is to enter ww in the 'pay to the order of' section; your account balance in the word$ and number$ for the amount; and, of course sign the check on the bottom line.

ps: Postdated checks accepted only for the current month.