Where Do I Sign the Back of a Check?

Checks remain a common method for financial transactions, even with the rise of digital payments. Properly endorsing a check is a necessary step to ensure it can be processed for deposit or cashing. Without the correct endorsement, a bank may not accept the check, leading to delays in accessing your funds.

Understanding Check Endorsement

Check endorsement is the act of signing the back of a check to authorize its transfer or processing by a financial institution. This signature confirms that you, as the payee, are allowing the funds to be deposited into an account or cashed. There are three main types of endorsements, each with distinct implications for security and use.

A blank endorsement involves only your signature on the back of the check. This is the simplest method, but it also carries the most risk because once signed, the check becomes payable to anyone who possesses it, similar to cash. It is best to sign a blank endorsement only immediately before depositing or cashing the check.

A restrictive endorsement limits how the check can be used, adding a layer of security. This involves writing “For Deposit Only” followed by your account number above your signature. This ensures that even if the check is lost or stolen, it can only be deposited into the specified account and cannot be cashed.

A special endorsement allows you to transfer the check to a third party. To do this, you write “Pay to the Order of [New Payee’s Name]” above your signature. The new payee must then also endorse the check to deposit or cash it.

Physically Endorsing Your Check

To endorse a check, turn it over to the back. You will find a designated area for endorsement, marked “Endorse Here” or with a line. This area is located at the top back of the check.

Sign your name legibly within this designated space using black or dark blue ink. The signature should match the payee’s name. If your name is misspelled on the check, first sign the incorrect spelling, then sign your correct name directly below it.

For a restrictive endorsement, write “For Deposit Only” and your account number above your signature. For a special endorsement, write “Pay to the Order of [New Payee’s Name]” above your signature. Avoid signing below any “Do not write, stamp, or sign below this line” text. This area is reserved for bank processing, and writing there could invalidate the check.

Common Endorsement Scenarios

When endorsing a check for mobile deposit, specific instructions may apply depending on your bank. Banks often recommend writing “For Mobile Deposit Only” below your signature, or some checks feature a checkbox. Always verify your bank’s mobile deposit requirements within their banking app or website.

Checks made out to multiple payees require careful attention to the wording between the names. If the check states “John AND Jane Smith,” both individuals must endorse the check. However, if it reads “John OR Jane Smith,” either person can endorse it.

For business checks, an authorized company representative must endorse it. This involves writing the business name, followed by their signature and title, such as “Owner” or “Accountant.” Adding a restrictive endorsement like “For Deposit Only” with the business account number is also recommended for security.