How to Write a Check to Newlyweds the Right Way

When preparing a wedding gift, a check often provides a thoughtful and practical contribution to a newly married couple’s future. Understanding how to accurately complete a check ensures your gift is easily accessible to the recipients. This guide outlines the proper method for filling out a check as a wedding present, focusing on details that prevent processing delays and provide clarity for the couple.

Addressing the Payee Line

The “Pay to the Order of” line is the most important field on a check for newlyweds, as it determines who can legally deposit the funds. It is important to use the couple’s full, legal names to avoid issues with their bank. If you use both names, consider using “or” between them, such as “Jane Doe or John Smith,” to allow either individual to deposit the check without the other’s endorsement. Using “and” between their names, like “Jane Doe and John Smith,” requires both parties to endorse the check and may necessitate both being present at the bank for deposit. Banks may also be more stringent in checking identities or requiring a joint account if “and” is used.

When one spouse plans to take the other’s last name, it is advised to write the check using their pre-married names. The process of legally changing a name and updating bank accounts can take time, and the couple may wish to deposit the check before these changes are finalized. Addressing the check to their original names, for example, “Jane Doe or John Smith,” ensures they can deposit it promptly without waiting for new legal documentation to be processed.

If the couple opts for a hyphenated or combined last name, it is advisable to use their legal names as they appear before marriage. While the couple might intend to combine their names, the official record-keeping and bank updates can lag behind. When in doubt about name changes, the safest approach is to use both individuals’ full original names.

For situations where you are uncertain about the couple’s chosen names or their banking arrangements, discreetly asking a close family member, such as a parent of the bride or groom, or a member of the wedding party can provide clarity. If asking is not an option, writing the check to both individuals using their full original names with “or” as the conjunction remains an acceptable and convenient solution. This method simplifies the deposit process for the couple, as either party can access the funds.

Some informal options, such as “Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]” or “The Happy Couple,” are sometimes used, but these can pose challenges for the newlyweds when attempting to deposit the check. Banks may not accept checks made out to such informal titles because they do not match the legal names on the couple’s accounts. Using the couple’s full, legal names, separated by “or,” is the secure and recommended practice to ensure your gift can be easily utilized.

Completing Other Check Fields

After addressing the payee line, accurately completing the remaining fields on the check is straightforward but important. Begin by writing the current date clearly in the designated space, typically located in the upper right corner of the check. This date indicates when the check was written and can be helpful for both your records and the recipient’s.

Next, fill in the numeric value of your gift in the dollar box, ensuring the numbers are clear and precise. It is a good practice to fill the space completely, preventing any alteration of the amount. On the line below the payee name, write out the amount in words. For whole dollar amounts, include “and 00/100” or “and no/100” to explicitly indicate there are no cents, further protecting against fraudulent additions. Draw a line through any remaining blank space on this line to prevent unauthorized changes.

The memo line, located in the bottom left corner, is optional but serves as a useful space for personal notes or record-keeping. You can write “Wedding Gift,” “Congratulations,” or a similar sentiment. This entry does not affect the check’s validity but provides context for both you and the recipients. Finally, sign your check legibly in the bottom right corner using permanent ink, preferably blue or black, as your signature authorizes the payment. Without your signature, the check is invalid.