How Long Is a Personal Check Good for to Cash?

Personal checks have a standard validity period for cashing or deposit. Understanding these timeframes is important to avoid complications for both the check writer and recipient.

Standard Validity Period

Personal checks are typically valid for six months, or 180 days, from the date they are written. This standard is based on the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), which states banks are not obligated to honor a check presented more than six months after its date.

This six-month period is a guideline, not a strict legal mandate. Banks retain the discretion to pay a check older than six months, especially if the account has sufficient funds and there are no other issues.

Factors Affecting Check Validity

If a check explicitly includes a “void after X days” clause, such as “void after 90 days,” this instruction typically overrides the standard six-month period. The clause is intended to encourage prompt deposit.

For post-dated checks, where a future date is written on the check, the validity period begins from that future date. However, a bank may cash or deposit a post-dated check before its indicated date.

Checks presented beyond the six-month guideline are referred to as “stale checks.” Banks have the discretion to pay or refuse payment on stale checks. They may contact the issuer to confirm funds and intent, protecting against issues like insufficient funds or fraud.

Presenting an Expired Check

If a check is past its stated or implied validity period, the bank has the right to refuse to honor it. The bank may reject the check, which can result in funds being removed from the recipient’s account and fees charged.

When a check is refused due to being stale or expired, the holder should contact the issuer to request a new one. Holding onto checks for an extended period also increases the risk that the issuer’s account might not have sufficient funds later, or that a stop payment order may have been placed on the original check.

Handling Checks Promptly

To avoid validity issues, recipients should cash or deposit personal checks promptly. This ensures funds are available and reduces the risk of the check becoming stale. Always double-check the date written on the check and look for any “void after” clauses.

If a delay is unavoidable, or a check is approaching its expiration date, communicate with the issuer. This allows the issuer to confirm funds or provide a replacement. While paper checks remain a common payment method, digital alternatives such as direct deposit or electronic transfers can eliminate time-related concerns and offer greater security.