What does a check allow a bank to do?

A check serves as a written order directing a bank to pay a specific amount of money from the check writer's account to the person or entity named on the check. This function is essential because it provides a secure and documented means of transferring funds. When an individual writes a check, they are authorizing their bank to withdraw the designated amount from their account and transfer it to the recipient's account, which is why option C is the correct answer.

Writing a check encapsulates the legal and financial relationship between the account holder and the bank. It ensures that funds are disbursed accurately and allows for a traceable transaction record. This established process is fundamental in various financial activities such as paying bills, settling debts, and making purchases without physical cash.

In contrast, while checks may facilitate some types of transactions, they are not primarily designed for withdrawing funds directly, transferring funds internally within the same bank, or depositing funds into an account. Each of these functions has its own best-suited tools and methods, such as cash withdrawals at ATMs or online banking for transfers and deposits.