How to Endorse a Check to Someone

Your bank may not accept an endorsed check.

When you endorse a check, you sign the back of it to verify that the amount is correct. Endorsing a check to someone involves taking a check that has been made out to you and giving permission to someone else to cash; this is also known as signing over a check. Endorse a check to someone as opposed to paying them with a personal check or in cash. Certain rules must be followed.

Instructions

1. Flip over the back of the check and endorse it. Endorse a check by signing on the line that should be provided on all checks.

2. Write "Pay to the order of ________" underneath the endorsement. Fill in the blank with the individual's name to whom you are signing the check over.

3. Sign your name again underneath the "Pay to the order of _____." The individual cashing the check will also need to sign his name.

Tips & Warnings

• Different banks have different policies when it comes to cashing signed-over checks. Some will not do it all, while others require that a bank employee witnesses the check being endorsed by both parties.

References

• Banking Questions: Endorsing a Check Over to Someone Else