Whether you are expecting a check from the state as a tax refund, as financial assistance or any other reason, you need to cash that check properly. Knowing how to properly endorse the check will protect you from theft and fraud and allow you to get the money you have coming to you.
Visit the bank where you have your checking or savings account. Many banks will not cash checks, even official state checks, for non-customers.
Endorse the check on the back by signing your name exactly as it appears on the front of the check. If the check is made out to Mary A. Jones, be sure to sign "Mary A. Jones" instead of just "M. Jones" or "Mary Jones." Do not endorse the check until you are actually in the bank. If you endorse the check and then lose it, the finder can cash it and you will be out the money.
Hand the check to the teller at the bank. Provide your identification and your account number to verify your identity. Put the cash away as soon as you receive it.
References
- Huntington. "How to Sign/Endorse a Check Over to Someone Else." Accessed Feb. 6, 2020.
- Citizens Bank. "Third Party Sign Over?" Accessed Feb. 6, 2020.
- Citibank. "Client Manual Consumer Accounts," Page 32. Accessed Jan. 9, 2020.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "How Quickly Can I Get My Money After I Deposit a Check Into My Checking Account? What Is a Deposit Hold?" Accessed Jan. 9, 2020.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "CFPB Takes Action Against Check Cashing and Payday Lending Company for Tricking and Trapping Consumers." Accessed Jan. 11, 2020.
- Kmart. "Check Cashing." Accessed Jan. 11, 2020.
- CO-OP Financial Services. "CO-OP Shared Branch." Accessed Jan. 11, 2020.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "Understand the Fees You Will Pay." Accessed Jan. 11, 2020.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "How to Spot, Report and Avoid Fake Check Scams." Accessed Jan. 11, 2020.
Writer Bio
Based in Pennsylvania, Bonnie Conrad has been working as a professional freelance writer since 2003. Her work can be seen on Credit Factor, Constant Content and a number of other websites. Conrad also works full-time as a computer technician and loves to write about a number of technician topics. She studied computer technology and business administration at Harrisburg Area Community College.