Or do you just go by what's in there?

I do it daily, on line. I can see which checks have come in and not in. I like being in complete control of this. It also helps me budget.

Susie in MN

I balance the checkbook every month when I get the statement, its always to the penny!!

I balance it to the penny every month.

Oh, yes! I balance it as soon as I get my statement. Banks make too many mistakes (and I make some ;) ) not to balance.

I balance mine every month! I'm a fanatic about this.