How Long Are Personal Checks Good For?

Checks remain a common method for financial transactions, despite the rise of digital payment options. Understanding how long a personal check is valid is important for both the person writing the check and the person receiving it. The period of validity can impact whether a check can be successfully deposited or cashed.

The Standard Validity Period for Personal Checks

A personal check generally has a standard validity period of six months, or 180 days, from the date it was written. The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) governs commercial transactions across the United States. UCC Section 4-404 states that banks are not obligated to pay a check presented more than six months after its date. This framework applies to uncertified personal, business, and payroll checks.

This rule helps manage financial records and reduces fraud risk. Indefinite validity could create uncertainty for account holders regarding balances and increase misuse potential. While some checks include a “void after 90 days” notice, banks typically still honor them for the full 180-day period, as this shorter message encourages prompt deposit.

Bank Policies for Stale-Dated Checks

Once a personal check passes its standard six-month validity period, it is considered “stale-dated.” Banks are not legally required to honor stale-dated checks under the UCC, but they may choose to do so at their discretion. This can vary significantly between financial institutions.

If a bank honors a stale-dated check, it typically depends on factors like available funds in the check writer’s account and the absence of a stop payment order. For the recipient, attempting to cash or deposit a stale-dated check risks rejection and potential returned check fees. For the writer, funds might still be debited, leading to unexpected depletion if they no longer account for that outstanding amount.

Validity Periods for Other Check Types

The validity period for checks can differ based on their type.

Cashier’s and Certified Checks

Cashier’s checks, guaranteed by the issuing bank, generally do not have a set expiration date, though some may be considered “stale-dated” after 90 days to a year. Funds from uncashed cashier’s checks may eventually be subject to escheatment laws, turned over to the state as unclaimed property after a period, typically three to five years. Certified checks, similar to cashier’s checks, also guarantee funds by setting them aside. They typically do not expire but can become subject to state unclaimed property laws if uncashed for an extended time.

Traveler’s Checks

Traveler’s checks, while less common, historically have no expiration date and remain valid as long as the issuing company is in business.

Government Checks

Government checks, such as those from the U.S. Treasury for tax refunds or Social Security benefits, have a specific validity period of one year from their issue date. Checks issued by state or local government agencies typically have validity periods ranging from six months to a year, varying by jurisdiction. If a government check expires, the payee is still entitled to the funds and can request a reissuance from the relevant agency.

Managing Older Personal Checks

For individuals holding personal checks, prompt deposit or cashing is advisable to avoid stale-dating issues. If a personal check has passed the six-month mark, the recipient should contact the check writer for a new check. Attempting to deposit a very old check without prior communication could result in it being returned and potential fees.

For those who have written checks that remain uncashed, keep sufficient funds in the account, as the bank might still honor an older check. A check writer can also place a stop payment order on an old, outstanding check to prevent it from being cashed. This typically incurs a fee and remains effective for a limited period, depending on the financial institution.