Can You Deposit a Check After 90 Days?
Is your check too old to deposit? Understand validity rules, bank discretion, and the best way to handle older checks for successful banking.
A check is a written instruction to a bank to transfer money from one account to another. It is a convenient and secure payment method. Checks are not indefinitely valid and typically have specific timeframes for presentation.
Understanding Check Validity Periods
Checks have a defined validity period for deposit or cashing. Most personal and business checks are valid for six months (180 days) under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). After this, a check is “stale-dated,” meaning the bank is not legally obligated to honor it. However, the bank retains discretion to accept or reject it.
A 90-day-old check falls within the six-month UCC guideline and is not stale-dated. However, its age might prompt a bank to exercise caution. Other checks have different validity periods; U.S. Treasury checks are valid for one year, and state and local government checks usually for six months to a year.
Cashier’s checks, backed by the issuing bank, generally have longer validity and may not have a universal expiration date. Some may include a “void after X days” notice (60-180 days), but are typically honored longer due to guaranteed funds. Certified checks also usually do not expire, though they can be considered stale after 90 days to a year and may be subject to state abandoned property laws.
Bank Discretion and Acceptance
Even if a check is not technically stale-dated, banks maintain discretion regarding whether to accept older checks. Individual bank policies can be stricter than UCC guidelines, with some flagging checks older than 90 days. A bank might refuse a check even if it is within the six-month window.
The type of check also plays a role in a bank’s acceptance decision. Government and cashier’s checks are generally more reliable because their funds are guaranteed, making them less likely to be rejected due to age. Personal or business checks carry more risk, as their validity depends on the issuer’s account status. Banks verify if the issuer’s account has sufficient funds and remains open; a closed account or insufficient balance leads to rejection.
Banks are hesitant to accept older checks due to potential fraud, disputes, or stop payment orders. If an older check bounces, the depositor could incur fees, typically ranging from $15 to $35. Smaller checks might clear without manual review, but larger amounts are scrutinized, increasing rejection chances if the check’s age raises concerns.
Actionable Steps for Older Checks
When holding an older check, first contact the issuer. This allows for confirmation of the check’s validity, ensures sufficient funds, and confirms if a stop payment was placed or the account closed.
It is also advisable to contact your bank to inquire about their specific policies regarding older checks before attempting a deposit. Understanding your bank’s internal rules can prevent issues, such as the check being returned and fees being assessed. This proactive approach saves time and avoids complications.
If the original check is too old or the issuer expresses concerns, requesting a new check is often the best course of action. The issuer may need to place a stop payment on the original before issuing a replacement. Timely reissuance ensures funds can be accessed without delay. If a new check is not feasible, discuss alternative payment methods with the issuer, such as an electronic transfer.