How Long Is a Check Good for After the Date?
Understand how long a check is typically valid and what happens when it gets old. Get practical advice for handling old or uncashed checks.
While checks do not have a strict expiration date, there are generally accepted timeframes for their validity. Understanding these periods is important for anyone who writes or receives a check. This knowledge helps prevent complications and ensures financial transactions proceed smoothly.
Standard Check Validity Periods
The typical validity period for most personal and business checks is six months from their issue date. This timeframe is a widely accepted banking practice, rooted in principles outlined in the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). Financial institutions are not obligated to honor these checks after this 180-day period, though it does not automatically render the check worthless.
Certain types of checks, such as certified checks, cashier’s checks, and money orders, generally have longer or even indefinite validity periods. Certified checks, for instance, are backed by the issuing bank, with funds often set aside, making them theoretically valid for an extended time. Government checks, including federal tax refunds or state-issued payments, often have their own specific validity rules, commonly ranging from six months to one year.
Understanding Stale Checks
A check becomes “stale” when it is presented for payment a significant time after its original issue date, typically exceeding the standard six-month period for personal and business checks. Once a check is considered stale, the bank on which it is drawn is no longer legally compelled to pay it. This provision, supported by banking guidelines, protects the check issuer from unexpected deductions long after they might have accounted for the funds.
The purpose of this practice is to encourage the timely presentment of checks and to mitigate potential financial complications for the issuer. An old check could pose issues if the issuer’s account no longer holds sufficient funds or if the issuer has closed the account. While banks have discretion, the lack of obligation means they can refuse payment without liability.
Bank Discretion and Handling of Old Checks
When a check is presented beyond its standard validity period, the payer bank exercises discretion in deciding whether to honor it. Banks may choose to contact the original issuer for authorization before processing an old check, especially if it is for a substantial amount. Factors influencing a bank’s decision can include the check’s value, the relationship with the account holder, and the overall age of the instrument.
Some checks, particularly those from businesses, may include printed language such as “void after 90 days” or “void after 180 days.” While this serves as a strong instruction from the issuer to prompt quick deposit, banks typically adhere to the general six-month guideline for personal and business checks, even if a shorter void date is printed. If a bank decides to pay a stale check, the funds are deducted from the issuer’s account. Conversely, if payment is refused, the check is returned unpaid, potentially incurring fees for the person attempting to deposit it.
Recommended Actions for Check Holders and Issuers
For individuals holding an old check, the most direct action is to contact the issuer. Requesting a new check is often the simplest solution, especially if the original is nearing or has passed its typical validity period. While it is possible to attempt to deposit an old check, it might be returned unpaid, which could lead to fees from your bank.
Check issuers should regularly monitor their bank statements for outstanding checks that have not cleared. If a check remains uncashed for a prolonged period, considering a stop payment order through your bank is an option to prevent unexpected future deductions. Stop payment orders often incur a fee and are generally effective for a limited time, commonly six months. Reconciling accounts helps track outstanding payments and manage financial records. Funds from very old uncashed checks may eventually be turned over to the state as unclaimed property, a process known as escheatment, after a dormancy period.