How Long Is a Check Good For If Not Cashed?

Checks are a traditional payment method, instructing a financial institution to pay a specified amount from one account to another. While widely used, these instruments do not maintain indefinite validity. Understanding a check’s lifespan is important for both the issuer and the recipient, as uncashed checks can lead to various complications if not handled promptly.

Standard Validity Period for Personal and Business Checks

Most personal and business checks are valid for six months (180 days) from their issue date. This timeframe is a common banking practice and is often rooted in the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), which provides a framework for commercial transactions across the United States. The UCC states that banks are not obligated to honor a check presented more than six months after its date.

However, this does not mean a check automatically becomes invalid after this period. Financial institutions may honor checks beyond the 180-day mark, though they are not legally required to do so. Some businesses print “void after 90 days” on checks, but banks typically honor them for the standard 180 days. It is best to deposit or cash these checks promptly to avoid potential issues.

Special Considerations for Other Check Types

The validity period can differ significantly for certain specialized check types.

Certified Checks

Certified checks typically do not have a strict expiration date because the issuing bank guarantees the funds. The funds are secured by the bank, which sets aside the amount, ensuring payment. While not strictly expiring, certified checks can be considered “stale” after 90 days to a year, and may become subject to state unclaimed property laws if uncashed for too long.

Cashier’s Checks

Cashier’s checks, drawn on the bank’s own funds, also offer strong guarantees. There is no universally set expiration date for cashier’s checks, though some may have a “void by” date printed, typically ranging from 90 days to a year. If uncashed, these funds might eventually be turned over to the state as unclaimed property.

Government-Issued Checks

Government-issued checks, like those from the U.S. Treasury (including federal tax refunds and Social Security benefits), commonly have a validity period of one year from their issue date. State and local government checks also tend to have longer validity, often ranging from six months to a year, though specific rules can vary by jurisdiction. Even if a government check expires, the payee is still entitled to the funds and can request a reissued check from the relevant agency.

Post-Dated Checks

Post-dated checks have a future date written on them and are not valid for payment until that date arrives. The standard six-month validity period for these checks begins from the future date indicated on the check, not the date it was physically written.

What Happens When a Check Becomes Stale-Dated

A check is deemed “stale-dated” when it is presented for payment after its recommended validity period, typically six months from its issue date for personal and business checks. Once a check becomes stale-dated, the financial institution is no longer obligated to honor it. Banks have the discretion to return such a check unpaid, which can lead to significant inconvenience.

In some situations, a bank might still choose to process a stale-dated check, particularly if the funds are available and the account is in good standing. However, before honoring it, the bank may contact the check’s issuer to confirm approval for payment. Attempting to deposit or cash a stale-dated check carries a risk of it being returned, potentially incurring fees for the person trying to cash it. This emphasizes the importance of timely deposit.

Steps for Payees and Issuers Regarding Old Checks

For individuals who have received an old, uncashed check, the primary actionable step is to communicate with the check’s issuer. It is advisable to contact the person or entity who wrote the check to confirm if the funds are still available and to request a reissued check. Trying to cash a very old check without prior communication might result in the check being returned, potentially leading to fees from your bank. Obtaining a new check can prevent unnecessary complications and ensure the payment is successfully processed.

From the issuer’s perspective, regularly reconciling bank statements is a prudent practice to identify any outstanding checks that have not yet been cashed. Maintaining sufficient funds in the account for any uncashed checks is also a responsible financial habit. If a check remains uncashed for an extended period, the issuer might consider placing a stop payment on it, especially if a new check is being issued. This formal request prevents the original check from being cashed, though banks typically charge a fee for this service, often ranging from $10 to $35. A stop payment order usually remains in effect for a specific period, such as six months or even up to 24 months, and cannot typically be placed on cashier’s or certified checks.