How do you endorse a check for deposit only?
The most secure way to endorse a check is to:
- Write: For Deposit Only to Account Number XXXXXXXXXX
- Sign your name below that, but still within the endorsement area of the check
This method specifically instructs the bank that the check should be deposited into the account identified in the endorsement. Whether you are taking the check directly to the bank or if a friend is taking the check to your bank for you, we recommend that you use this method as a more secure option.
Keep in mind that the check writer may see a copy of the check through their bank. They typically get to see the front and back of the check. If you’re uncomfortable with someone else seeing your bank account number, you can write, “For Deposit Only” and then sign the check.
This is a less secure option than including the account number, but most banks will follow the instructions and only accept the check for deposit. Please keep in mind that most banks will print the account number on the back of the check during processing. Chances are your bank account will still be visible.
Also, to help protect yourself further from check fraud, wait till you’re at the bank to endorse the check, or if you do a mobile deposit–deposit it right away. This is important to keep in mind because if you lose the check after you endorse it, someone can steal the check and alter the endorsement.
How do you endorse a check to someone else?
If someone pays you with a check and you want to hand that check over to a third person for a payment that you owe them, then you can do this with an endorsement.
Write:
- Pay to the order of [Person’s Name]
- Then sign the check
This is not considered a good practice to do, but it can be done. Some banks will not accept third-party checks due to the risk of fraud and most check-cashing places won’t accept them either.
What is a blank endorsement?
This is the least secure way to endorse a check, but it’s the most common. You do a blank endorsement by simply signing your name on the back of the check. Then, when you’re at the bank, you tell the teller if you want to cash it or deposit it.
People will also do a blank endorsement when they’re depositing a check through an ATM or using mobile deposit. If you’re doing a blank endorsement, sign the check just before you deposit the check.
How do you endorse a check for mobile deposit?
Some banks will require you to add “Mobile Deposit” to the endorsement when you deposit a check using your phone. Some banks will accept other endorsement styles for mobile deposit. Check with your bank to find out if they need a special mobile endorsement.
How do you endorse a check made out to a business?
If a check is made payable to a business, then an authorized person must endorse the check on behalf of the business.
- Sign the name of the business as it appears on the pay-to line
- Sign your name
Write your title with the company (Owner, Accountant, etc.)
Add any restrictions like “For Deposit Only”
What is an FBO endorsement on a check?
Sometimes checks will be payable to a person or company for the benefit of another person.
For example, someone might write a check to an assisted living facility for the benefit of an elderly or special needs family member. The “Pay to the Order Of” line may look like this:
- Assisted Living Facility FBO Jane Smith
- Assisted Living Facility for the Benefit of Jane Smith
Writing a FBO check helps to ensure that the funds will be used for a specific purpose, but in this case, the assisted living facility is considered as the custodian of the funds. The custodian endorses the check.
Some banks will require both parties to endorse the check. Consult your bank and the organization receiving the check to find out how to write an FBO check for them. This can get tricky if the bank requires both signatures and the person receiving the benefit of the check is incapacitated and cannot endorse it.
Frequently asked questions about endorsing a check
What does it mean to endorse a check?
Endorsing a check means signing the back of the check to authorize a bank to process it. Your endorsement helps verify that you're the intended recipient of the funds and allows the bank to complete the transaction.
When someone pays you with a check, you can typically cash it at the issuing bank or deposit it into your account. Depending on the type of endorsement you use, you may also add instructions about how the funds can be handled.
Do you always have to endorse a check?
Some banks may accept a check without an endorsement. They may set a dollar amount limit, place a longer hold on the funds, or ask you to verify your identity. Certain types of checks may still require an endorsement.
Where do you endorse a check?
You endorse a check on the back, usually in the area marked “Endorse Here.” Many checks also include a line that says not to write, stamp, or sign below it. Keep your signature and any instructions within the endorsement area.
What do you write when endorsing a check for deposit only?
For a restrictive endorsement, you can write “For Deposit Only” and sign your name below it. You may also include the account number if you want to direct the deposit to a specific account. Keep in mind that the check writer may be able to see a copy of the front and back of the check.
Can you deposit a check without endorsing it?
Some banks may accept a check without an endorsement. The bank may set a dollar limit, place a longer hold on the funds, or require identity verification. Certain types of checks may still require an endorsement.
How do you endorse a check for mobile deposit?
Some banks may ask you to add “Mobile Deposit” when you endorse a check for deposit through a mobile app. Check with your bank to learn whether it requires specific wording for mobile deposits.
Who endorses a check made out to two people?
The pay-to line can help determine who needs to endorse the check. If the check is made out to two people using “and,” both people usually endorse it. If the check uses “or,” either person may be able to endorse it.
What is the safest way to endorse a check?
A restrictive endorsement can help direct how the check is handled. You can write “For Deposit Only” and sign your name. You may also include an account number, though the check writer may be able to see the back of the check through their bank.
Can you endorse a check to someone else?
You may be able to endorse a check to a third party by writing “Pay to the order of [Person’s Name]” and signing the check. Some banks and check-cashing locations may not accept third-party checks because of fraud risk.
