To endorse a check, you need to sign your name on the back of the check in the designated endorsement area. This area is usually marked with a box or line labeled "Endorse Here" and is typically about 1.5 inches long, covering the width of the check. You should sign your name exactly as it appears on the front of the check in the "Pay to the Order Of" section. Avoid writing below the line that says "Do not write, stamp, or sign below this line" to prevent processing issues
. Here are the key points for endorsing a check:
- Flip the check over and locate the endorsement box on the back, usually at the top or bottom
- Use a pen (not pencil) to sign your name in cursive within the endorsement box
- If the check is made out to multiple people joined by "and," all payees must endorse it; if joined by "or," any one of them can endorse
- For added security, you can write "For Deposit Only" under your signature to restrict the check to deposit only, which prevents cashing
- If you need to endorse the check to someone else (third-party endorsement), write "Pay to the order of [person's name]" and then sign below
Endorsing a check properly authorizes your bank to process and settle the funds associated with it
. In summary, endorse a check by signing your name in the designated endorsement area on the back of the check, using a pen, and following any specific instructions your bank may provide.
