How to Cash Second-Party Endorsed Checks

Cash your checks the right way.

If you have money coming your way, you want to get that cash in your hand as quickly as possible. But if those funds are in the form of a second endorsed check, you need to take the proper steps to cash that check. Taking the time to endorse the check properly will save you a lot of time and potential hassle.

Things You'll Need

• Bank account

Instructions

1. Review the endorsement on the check and make sure the name signed on the back of the check matches the name shown on the front. Also make sure that the endorsement on the check includes a "Pay to" line with your name on it. If the names do not match the bank will refuse to cash the check.

2. Visit the bank where you have an account. Most banks will be reluctant to cash a second-party endorsed check for a noncustomer, and many have policies in place preventing them from cashing checks for nonaccount holders.

3. Wait to sign the check until you are in front of the teller. If you sign the check and someone else finds it, the finder would be able to cash the check and take the money.

4. Hand your photo identification to the teller and sign the back of the check in the presence of that teller. Present any additional information the teller asks for.

References

• NASA Federal Credit Union: Funds Availability Policy