How Long Is a Check Good For? And What Happens If It Expires
Uncover how long checks remain valid and the financial consequences of delayed deposits. Understand other factors that can impact a check's acceptance.
A check functions as a written instruction directing a bank to transfer a specific sum of money from one account to another. It serves as a common payment instrument, facilitating transactions between parties without requiring physical currency. Understanding the time-sensitive nature of checks is important for both the person writing the check and the recipient.
Check Validity Periods
Personal and business checks generally maintain validity for a period of six months from their issue date. The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Section 4-404 states that banks are not obligated to honor checks presented more than six months after their date. However, banks may still cash older checks. Some business checks may include printed phrases like “void after 90 days” to encourage prompt cashing, though most banks will still honor them for the full six-month period.
Certified checks and cashier’s checks typically operate under different validity guidelines due to their guaranteed nature. These checks are backed by the issuing bank, with funds often set aside at the time of issuance, providing a higher level of assurance. While many do not have a strict expiration date, some may become “stale” after a period ranging from 60 days to a year, or may have a specific void-after date printed on them. Banks might exercise caution with very old instruments, although the underlying funds remain guaranteed.
Government checks, such as those issued by the U.S. Treasury, often come with explicit expiration dates. U.S. Treasury checks are generally valid for one year from their issue date, and recipients must adhere to this timeframe. Checks from state or local governments vary in their validity periods, but typically range from six months to a year. Money orders also generally have long or no expiration dates; however, it is advisable to check the specific issuer’s policy as some may begin to deduct service fees after a certain period, such as one to three years.
Handling Expired Checks
When a personal or business check is presented after its six-month validity period, it is considered “stale-dated.” A bank may, at its discretion, choose to honor such a check, but is not legally obligated to do so. This decision often depends on the bank’s internal policies, the check’s age, and the relationship with the account holder.
If a bank refuses to honor a stale check, it is returned unpaid. The payee must contact the issuer for a new check. Depositing a stale check can result in fees if rejected.
Even if a bank does not pay a stale check, the underlying debt remains. The issuer remains legally liable for payment. Recipients should present checks promptly to avoid complications.
Other Factors Affecting Check Cashing
Checks can be rejected for reasons unrelated to age. One common reason is insufficient funds (NSF). The check is “bounced” or returned unpaid, and both the issuer and recipient may incur fees.
An issuer can place a stop payment order on a check, instructing the bank to prevent it from being honored. This renders the check uncashable, even within its validity period. Stop payment orders are used if a check is lost, stolen, or if there is a payment dispute.
Post-dated checks cannot be cashed before their specified date. The issuer could place a stop payment if the check is cashed early. Any material alteration to a check, such as changes to the amount or payee, can invalidate it and lead to rejection.
Checks may not be honored if the account is closed. Upon notification of the account holder’s death, a bank may freeze the account, preventing outstanding checks from processing. Timely presentation and verification are important for both parties.