How to Sign a Check Over to Another Person
It is a relatively easy matter to ''endorse'' or sign a check written by you over to another person. The complications come from two sources: The banking institution may not accept the check without identification from you and the new endorser. The new endorser may not accept the credit of the party who originally wrote the check.
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Things You'll Need
- proof of identification with a photo ID like a driver's license
- another form of identification such as a passport or credit card
Instructions
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Get Third-Party Checks Cashed Quickly
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Know your creditor. If you can't cash the check yourself, be sure someone trusts you enough to know you will honor the check if it is returned for insufficient funds. Not all banks will accept a third party-endorsed check any longer because of the bank's internal security regulations.
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Endorse the check at the top on the reverse side by writing ''pay to the order of'' and sign your name immediately underneath so no other name can be inserted. The bank will look at the spacing because too large a gap increases the possibility of fraud.
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3
The endorser should only sign the check in front of the bank teller. After the original endorser signs the check the new endorser will sign beneath and tightly below your name. The teller will probably ask for picture identification as well. Some banks will accept third-party checks but only with both endorsers being at the bank together. You will both be asked to provide photo identification. Don't blame the bank for the hassle. Bad check risk drops considerably with photo identification.
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Call the bank in advance and know their endorsement policy. Banks are not required to accept third-party checks. If you have a third-party check deposited outside the United States there is a very good chance it will not be accepted. If it is accepted there may be high fees imposed by the foreign bank.
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Find an easier way to cash third-party checks than going to a bank. It may be easier to cash the check at a check cashing store or a local merchant who knows you. Cashing endorsed checks can be very expensive at a check cashing store and you may have to wait for your money.
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Tips & Warnings
Call ahead to the bank and make certain you follow their rules for check endorsement.
Do not endorse the check until you receive the money. A lost endorsed check is like losing cash. The check can be deposited and you will be without funds.
