Can You Send Checks Through the Mail?

Sending checks through the mail remains a common practice for various transactions, including bill payments and gifts. While generally permissible, this method carries inherent risks. Understanding these vulnerabilities and taking precautions is important for protecting personal financial information.

Understanding the Risks of Mailing Checks

Mailing checks can expose individuals to specific security threats, primarily mail theft and check washing. Mail theft involves criminals stealing checks directly from mailboxes, including residential ones and U.S. Postal Service collection boxes. There has been an increase in mail theft incidents and robberies targeting mail carriers, highlighting vulnerabilities within traditional mail channels.

Once a check is stolen, fraudsters may employ a technique known as “check washing.” This involves using chemicals to remove the original ink, leaving only the signature. The altered check can then be rewritten with a different payee and a larger amount, leading to significant financial loss for the account holder. Beyond direct monetary loss, checks contain sensitive information such as names, addresses, and bank account details, which can be exploited for identity theft.

Safeguarding Checks Sent by Mail

To mitigate the risks associated with mailing checks, take several steps. Using a permanent black gel ink pen for writing checks is highly recommended, as this ink resists chemical alteration, making “check washing” more difficult. It is advisable to fill out all fields completely, avoiding blank spaces on the payee or amount lines, and to write out the full amount in words and numbers clearly.

Instead of leaving outgoing mail in an unsecured personal mailbox with the flag raised, drop checks inside a post office, use an official postal collection box, or hand them directly to a uniformed mail carrier. Consider using security envelopes to conceal the contents. Making checks payable to a specific person or entity rather than “cash” adds a layer of security, as checks made out to “cash” can be cashed by anyone possessing them. For enhanced security, Certified Mail offers tracking capabilities and requires a recipient’s signature upon delivery, providing proof of receipt.

Actions If a Mailed Check Is Compromised

If a mailed check is suspected to be lost, stolen, or fraudulently altered, act promptly. First, immediately contact your bank or financial institution to report the issue and request a stop payment on the check. Provide all available details, including the check number, amount, payee’s name, and the date it was written. A stop payment order can prevent the check from being processed if it has not yet cleared, though a fee may apply for this service.

Monitor bank accounts for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If fraud is confirmed or strongly suspected, file a police report with local law enforcement. Additionally, report mail theft incidents to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Notifying the intended recipient of the check about the potential compromise is also advisable so they can anticipate a delay or request a new payment.

Alternative Payment Methods

Considering the risks of mailing physical checks, several more secure and efficient alternative payment methods are available. Online bill pay services offered by banks allow for electronic payments directly from an account, often providing features like automation and centralized payment history. These services typically offer strong security measures, including encryption, to protect financial information.

Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs), encompassing methods like direct deposit and Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers, facilitate the electronic movement of money between bank accounts without physical checks. EFTs are generally faster, more convenient, and offer enhanced security compared to paper checks, reducing the risk of theft or counterfeiting. Digital payment platforms and mobile apps, such as those used for person-to-person payments, also provide secure options with features like encryption, two-factor authentication, and fraud detection. Utilizing these digital alternatives can offer increased security, speed, and convenience for financial transactions.