How to Write a Check for a Wedding Gift

Giving a check as a wedding gift is a common and appreciated gesture, providing couples with financial flexibility as they begin their lives together. This allows newlyweds to apply funds directly toward financial goals, such as a down payment on a home, honeymoon expenses, or building emergency savings. This guide outlines the steps for writing a wedding gift check accurately and securely, ensuring your thoughtful contribution reaches the happy couple effectively.

Gathering Key Information

Before writing a wedding check, gather specific details to ensure the funds can be easily deposited. The accuracy of the payee’s name is important, as banks verify that the name on the check matches the account where it will be deposited. Use the couple’s full, legal pre-married names. While one or both partners may plan to change their names, the legal process for name changes can take time, and they may wish to deposit the check before these changes are finalized.

When making the check out to both individuals, using “or” between their names, such as “Jane Doe or John Smith,” allows either person to deposit the check independently into their account. Conversely, if “and” is used, for example, “Jane Doe and John Smith,” most banks typically require both individuals to be present and endorse the check for deposit, which can be inconvenient. Consider making the check out to only one of the individuals if you know they do not yet have a joint bank account, or if you are closer to one person, to simplify the deposit process. Avoid using honorifics like “Mr. and Mrs.” on the payee line; instead, use their full legal names.

The amount of your gift is a personal decision, often influenced by your budget and relationship with the couple. Ensure sufficient funds are available in your account to cover the check amount, as a bounced check can cause inconvenience for the couple. The date on the check should reflect the day you are writing it, which is important for the check’s validity and for tracking its lifespan, as banks are legally required to honor personal checks for up to six months after the issue date.

Filling Out Your Wedding Check

Fill out the check using permanent ink, such as blue or black, to prevent alterations. Write the current date in the designated field. This date marks when the check was issued. Next, write the recipient’s full legal name(s) on the “Pay to the order of” line, ensuring correct spelling. If making the check out to two people, remember to use “or” between their names for ease of deposit.

In the small box to the right of the payee line, write the numerical amount of the gift. For instance, if gifting one hundred fifty dollars, you would write “$150.00.” Directly below the payee line, write out the dollar amount in words, ensuring it precisely matches the numerical value. For the example of one hundred fifty dollars, you would write “One Hundred Fifty and 00/100” dollars. Even for round numbers, include “and 00/100” to clearly indicate there are no cents, which helps prevent fraudulent alteration.

The memo line is an optional space for a brief note, such as “Wedding Gift” or “Congratulations.” This serves as a helpful reference for both you and the recipients. Sign your name on the signature line, ensuring your signature matches the one on file with your bank. It is also a good practice to draw a line through any unused space on the payee line and the written amount line to prevent anyone from adding extra names or altering the amount.

Presenting and Protecting Your Gift Check

After completing your wedding gift check, present and securely deliver it to the couple. Placing the check inside a congratulatory card with a personal, handwritten message is a thoughtful way to present your gift. This adds a personal touch and ensures the check remains discreetly enclosed until it reaches the couple.

For delivery, bringing the check directly to the wedding reception and placing it in a designated gift box or area is a common and convenient method. If you choose to mail the check, doing so before or shortly after the wedding is acceptable. Mailing a check is more secure than sending cash, as checks are traceable and can only be deposited by the named payee. For added security when mailing, consider using a method with tracking, which allows you to confirm delivery.

Safeguard the check until it is presented to the couple. Avoid leaving the check unattended in unsecured locations, such as an open envelope on a table, especially at a busy event. While checks offer more security than cash, they still contain sensitive banking information. Timely delivery is beneficial, as couples often appreciate receiving gifts within a few months of their wedding to assist with post-nuptial expenses.