How to Endorse Checks for a Joint Account

How you must endorse a check to deposit it in a joint account (or cash it) depends on how the check is addressed. In some circumstances, one of the account holder's names will suffice, while in others, both parties will have to sign the check.

Instructions

1. Determine to whom the check is payable. Notice which conjunction ("and" or "or") joins the account holders' names.

2. If the check is written to only one of the account holders, only that person must endorse the check. If both account holders' names appear on the check, joined with "or," only one needs to endorse the check. If, however, the check is payable to both account holders, with their names being joined by "and," both parties must sign the check.

3. Flip to the back side of the check and locate the area marked "Endorse Here."

4. Sign your name, or both names as determined by Step 2, in the endorsement section. Write the joint account number beneath the signatures.

Tips & Warnings

• Some checks may be addressed without the conjunction "and" or "or." Generally, other variations for addressing a check to joint account holders are considered to be the same as "or." For example, the account holders' names may be separated by a slash, a comma or a dash; these can be assumed to represent "or," therefore requiring only one endorsement signature.

• Some banking companies may apply their own, non-standard rules when interpreting these variations in how a check is addressed. For this reason, ask your bank representative ahead of time if there's anything you need to know.

• Do not write anywhere on the back of a check except in the section marked "Endorse Here."