How Long Do You Have to Cash a Check?

Checks serve as a widely accepted method for transferring funds, offering a documented alternative to cash transactions. Unlike physical currency, however, checks generally have a limited lifespan during which they can be readily cashed or deposited. Understanding these timeframes is important for both those who issue checks and those who receive them, as delays can lead to complications and potential forfeiture of funds.

Standard Validity Periods for Personal and Business Checks

Most personal and business checks typically remain valid for six months from their issue date. Financial institutions are generally not obligated to honor checks presented after this 180-day period. The Uniform Commercial Code states that banks are not required to pay a check, other than a certified check, that is more than six months old.

Some checks may include phrases like “Void After 90 Days” printed on them. While these notations are often intended to encourage prompt cashing, banks frequently honor such checks for the full six-month period, viewing the printed message as a suggestion rather than a strict expiration. It is advisable to deposit or cash checks promptly to avoid issues related to their age.

Special Considerations for Specific Check Types

While most personal and business checks follow a six-month validity period, certain types of checks have different timeframes. Certified checks and cashier’s checks, for example, are backed by the issuing bank, meaning the funds are guaranteed. These checks do not have a strict expiration date, though they may become stale or subject to unclaimed property laws if not cashed. If a cashier’s check has a “void after X days” printed on it, it is best to cash it before that date, but the underlying funds remain guaranteed.

Government checks, such as U.S. Treasury checks for tax refunds or Social Security benefits, have a validity period of one year from their issue date. Even if these federal checks expire, the recipient is entitled to payment and can request a replacement from the issuing agency. Money orders, while having no expiration date, may incur service fees if they remain uncashed for an extended period, which can reduce their value. United States Postal Service (USPS) money orders are an exception, as they do not expire or accrue fees.

Presenting Stale-Dated Checks

A check presented to a bank after its standard validity period is referred to as a “stale-dated check.” While banks are not obligated to honor these checks, they may still honor them, especially if sufficient funds are available in the issuer’s account and no stop payment has been issued. Some banks may choose to process a stale check based on their internal policies.

If you possess a stale-dated check, contact the check issuer first to request a new check. The issuer can often stop payment on the original check and issue a replacement. If reissuing is not an option or the issuer is unreachable, you can inquire with your bank and the issuing bank about their specific policies for handling older checks. Attempting to deposit a stale-dated check without prior confirmation could result in the check being returned and potentially incurring fees.