How to sign over a check to another person is an important consideration for both individuals and businesses that use checks on a regular basis.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the exact requirements for endorsing a check, the different types of endorsements available, and answer common questions we receive on the topic.
This article is part of our free series on sending money, including the ultimate guide to bank checks, which you can access here.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
How to Sign Over a Check?
To sign over a check to someone else, the payee will need to complete a transfer process known as endorsement which enables third party individuals to deposit or cash the check.
There are several different methods of check endorsement, including the three most commonly used which are blank endorsement, restrictive endorsement, and special endorsement. Each type of endorsement requires the authorized signature of the original recipient of the check.
When cashing the check, bank regulations require the third party to present personal identification to the processing financial institution. Additionally, the check will need to complete the clearing process within six months of the issue date.
That said, certain financial institutions will have their own internal requirements for endorsing checks, especially for checks involving larger amounts. With this in mind, if you intend to endorse a check that is a larger amount, you should contact your bank first and confirm their specific requirements, including how long an endorsed check is good for.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people looking into how to sign over a check. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Can You Deposit Someone Else’s Check Into Your Bank Account?
Yes, you can deposit someone else’s check into your bank account if the check had been properly endorsed in the designated area on the back of the check by the intended recipient. If the intended recipient has not endorsed the check, then you will not be able to deposit the check into your bank account.
Can I Deposit a Check That Is Not in My Name?
Yes, you can deposit a check that is not in your name if the check has been properly endorsed by the intended recipient. If the check has not been endorsed by the intended recipient, then you will not be able to deposit or cash the check.
How Do I Deposit A Check Into My Bank Account That Is Made Out to Someone Else?
To deposit a check into your bank account that is made out to someone else, the original recipient of the check must sign the back of the check. Most checks have a designated space on the back for endorsing, indicated by the writing “Endorse Here”.
Can You Deposit Someone Else’s Check In Your Account?
Yes, you can deposit someone else’s check in your account. However, to successfully deposit someone else’s check into your account, they will need to endorse the back of the check by signing in the designated area.
Can You Cash a Check From Someone Who Passed Away?
You can cash a check from someone who passed away if you are the executor or administrator of their estate. If you are not the executor or administrator of their estate, you will need the check to be signed by an authorized party prior to cashing the check.
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