How long are different types of checks valid?
Personal, business and payroll checks
Most personal, business, and payroll checks are generally treated as stale-dated after six months. A bank may choose whether to accept or decline an older check, depending on its policies and the circumstances.
U.S. Treasury checks
These checks are generally valid for one year from the issue date. After that, you may be able to request a replacement from the issuing agency.
State or local government checks
State and local government checks often include their own timelines, which may range from six months to a year. Check the printed language on the check or contact the issuing agency to confirm
Cashier’s checks
Cashier’s checks do not have one universal expiration timeline. The issuing bank’s policy, state law and any “void after” language on the check may affect what happens next.
Money orders
Many money orders, such as those issued by the USPS, do not have an expiration date, but rules vary by issuer. Some issuers may charge fees over time or require additional steps to replace or cash an older money order, which can reduce the value.
Trying to choose between a cashier’s check or money order? Read Cashier’s Check vs Money Order to learn more.
Traveler’s checks
Traveler’s checks typically do not expire, but acceptance can vary. If you have older traveler’s checks, contact the issuer for options to use, redeem or replace them.
What should you do if you have an old check?
If you received an older check, start by checking the date and looking for any “void after” language. Then contact your bank or the check issuer before trying to deposit or cash it.
If you received the check, you can:
- Look for a printed “void after” date or other expiration language.
- Contact your bank or the check issuer.
- Ask whether a replacement can be issued if the check can no longer be used.
If you wrote the check and it has not cleared, you can:
- Contact the payee to confirm whether they still have the check.
- Ask whether the check was lost or needs to be reissued.
- Ask your bank about stop payment options if the check may be lost or you’re concerned it could be cashed later. Fees and timing may apply.
- Continue monitoring your account.
The bottom line on stale checks
Depositing or cashing a check soon after you receive it can help you avoid delays and reduce the chance of issues with older checks. If you’re unsure whether a check can still be used, check for any “void after” language and contact your bank or the issuer before taking your next step.
Check expiration FAQ
Can you deposit a check after six months?
You may be able to deposit a check after six months, but the bank can decide whether to accept it based on guidelines for different check types. Many banks review older checks before processing them because they may be considered stale-dated.
What is a “stale-dated” check?
A stale-dated check is old enough that a bank may choose not to accept or process it. For many personal, business and payroll checks, that often means the check is more than six months past the issue date. A stale-dated check is not always automatically invalid, but the bank may review it, decline it or ask for more information before processing it.
Can a bank still cash a stale-dated check?
A bank may cash a stale-dated check, but it is not required to do so. The decision can depend on the bank’s policy and the condition of the check.
What does “void after 90 days” mean on a check?
“Void after 90 days” encourages you to deposit the check sooner. The check may still be processed after that date, but acceptance can vary by bank.
Can you get a replacement for an expired check?
You can often request a replacement check from the issuer. The process can vary based on who issued the check and how much time has passed.
How long are payroll checks good for?
Payroll checks are typically valid for up to six months. Some employers may include a shorter time frame on the check, such as 90 days, to encourage earlier use. You can avoid check cashing stress by enrolling in direct deposit.
Do cashier’s checks expire?
Cashier’s checks do not follow a standard expiration timeline. Banks may apply their own policies or include a “void after” date on the check.
Do money orders expire?
Many money orders do not expire, but some issuers may charge fees over time. These fees can reduce the value of the money order.
Do government checks expire?
U.S. Treasury checks are valid for one year from the issue date. State and local government checks often follow timelines between six months and one year.
Can a check bounce after a long time?
A check may still be returned if there are not enough funds in the account when it is processed. This can happen even if time has passed since the check was written.
