How to Deposit a Check Made Out to a Minor

Checks are often made out directly to minors for gifts. Minors generally cannot directly deposit checks or independently manage bank accounts due to legal restrictions. Adult involvement is necessary to facilitate the deposit of these funds into an appropriate account, ensuring compliance with banking regulations.

Types of Accounts for Minors

Custodial accounts, typically established under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), are common. An adult custodian manages these accounts for the minor’s benefit until the minor reaches the age of majority (generally 18 or 21, depending on the state). UGMA accounts hold cash and securities, while UTMA accounts offer broader flexibility to include various asset types like real estate or art.

Another option is a joint account between an adult and a minor. Both parties are typically listed, though the adult usually maintains primary control over transactions. While some banks may offer debit cards for minors on joint accounts, the extent of the minor’s access and ownership can vary significantly by financial institution and the minor’s age.

Some financial institutions also permit minors to have their own savings or checking accounts, often referred to as teen or youth accounts. These accounts almost always require an adult co-signer, such as a parent or guardian, who is responsible for the account and any potential overdrafts. These accounts allow the minor to learn about money management, but adult oversight remains in place.

Required Documentation and Check Endorsement

Gathering necessary documentation is essential before depositing a check made out to a minor.

Required Documentation

For the minor, acceptable identification includes a birth certificate or a Social Security card. The adult facilitating the deposit needs a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Proof of relationship to the minor is also required. This can be the minor’s birth certificate or court orders if the adult is a legal guardian. For a custodial account, documentation proving the adult’s custodial status, like initial account opening documents, may be needed.

Check Endorsement

Properly endorsing the check is important. The adult must endorse the check on behalf of the minor, and specific wording varies by bank. Common endorsement methods include writing the minor’s name followed by “minor,” then the adult’s name with their relationship (e.g., “parent” or “custodian”), and the adult’s signature. For a custodial account, an endorsement might read: “[Minor’s Name], by [Adult’s Name], Custodian for [Minor’s Name] under UGMA/UTMA,” along with the account number. Contact the bank beforehand to confirm their precise endorsement requirements.

The Deposit Process

Once documentation is gathered and the check is endorsed, the deposit can proceed. For an in-person deposit at a bank branch, visit with all identification documents and the endorsed check. Engaging directly with a teller is the most straightforward approach, as they can verify the documentation and ensure the check is processed correctly into the minor’s account.

ATM Deposit

Depositing a minor’s check via an ATM can be less straightforward due to complex endorsement requirements. While some ATMs may accept checks with multiple endorsements, banks may still require human verification, potentially leading to a hold or rejection if the endorsement is unclear or incomplete. It is more reliable to deposit such checks directly with a bank representative.

Mobile Check Deposit

Mobile check deposit, while convenient, presents specific considerations for checks made out to minors. Many banks have strict mobile deposit terms, often requiring a “For Mobile Deposit Only” endorsement in addition to the standard endorsement for the minor. Due to the layered endorsement needed, some financial institutions may not support mobile deposit for these transactions. Always consult your bank’s mobile app terms or contact customer service for their specific policies. After a deposit, funds are typically available within one to five business days, though holds may be placed on larger amounts.