7 Check Endorsement Tips and Why They Matter to You

Paper checks are not used as often these days, but they are still part of everyday banking for many individuals and businesses. That makes it important to know how to endorse a check the right way. A check that is not endorsed correctly can delay your deposit or put you at risk for fraud.

At Capon Valley Bank, we want to help you keep your money safe and your banking simple. Here are seven important things to know about check endorsements.

1. Sign before you deposit

You must endorse the back of the check to deposit it. Sign your name in the blank space near the X before you bring it to the bank. You can deposit it at any CVB location, through the CVB Mobile App, or at a CVB ATM.

2. Match the name on the front

The name you sign on the back should match the payee name written on the front. A simple detail like this keeps everything moving smoothly.

3. Add a restriction for extra security

If you write “For deposit only into account number [your account number] at Capon Valley Bank” beneath your signature, it ensures the check can only be deposited into your account.

4. Giving the check to someone else

If you write “Pay to the order of [person’s name]” under your signature, you are transferring the check to that person. They will also need to sign the back before they can deposit it. Be aware that checks with multiple endorsements are harder to process.

5. More than one payee

If a check is made payable to you and another person and does not include the word “or,” then both of you must endorse it before it can be deposited.

6. Watch for missing endorsements

If someone deposits a check you wrote but forgets to endorse it, that check may be returned to you. This protects you from the risk of someone trying to deposit a check that was lost or stolen.

7. Check your statements for endorsements

Once you have written a check, review the image in your bank statement to make sure it was endorsed by the person you intended to pay. An endorsement serves as a receipt. If the check was not endorsed, you may not have valid proof of payment.

Endorsing checks the right way helps protect your money and keeps your transactions on track. If you have questions, your local Capon Valley Bank team is always here to help.

📞 If you have any questions, contact us at 304-874-3531 or visit a branch to speak with a business banking expert today!