Money 101: Do checks expire?

Checks are a common form of payment that many people use for various transactions. However, checks can expire if they are not cashed within a certain timeframe. Here's what you need to know about check validity and what to do with expired checks.

Check validity

The validity of a check refers to how long it can be used for payment or deposited into a bank account. In the United States, the validity of checks depends on the type. Personal checks are typically valid for six months from the date they were written. After this time, banks may refuse to cash or deposit the check.

Business checks, depending on the issuer, are usually valid between six months and 180 days. Government-issued checks typically stay valid for six months up to one year. 

Reasons for check expiration

There are a few reasons why checks expire after a certain time. First, it's for security purposes to prevent fraud or identity theft. As the check gets older, there is a higher risk of someone altering the check or using stolen information to cash it. 

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Checks also become outdated or “go stale” for the benefit of the issuer. When someone writes a check, they plan for those funds to be removed from their account. But if a significant amount of time goes by, they may no longer have the funds to cover that withdrawal. In other words - the check could bounce. 

What happens if you try to cash an expired check?

If you try to cash or deposit an expired check, the bank may refuse it. If they do accept it, they may place a hold on the funds until they can confirm that there are enough funds in the account to cover the check. This process can take several days and may result in a returned check fee if there are not enough funds.

What to do with expired checks

If you have an expired check, there are a few options for what to do with it. The best option is typically to contact the issuer of the check and request a new one. They may also be able to issue the payment through an electronic transfer or other means. If that's not possible, you can also try contacting the bank and explaining the situation to see if they will make an exception and cash the check.

FAQs about expired checks

Q: Can I still deposit an expired check?

A: You can certainly try, but it's best to contact the issuer of the check or the bank to see if they will accept it.

Q: How long are checks usually valid for?

A: In the United States, checks are typically valid for at least six months from the date they were written.

Q: Can I still cash a check after 6 months?

A: Technically, a check doesn’t expire if that money is owed. But, most checks “go stale,” become “outdated” or have an expiration date after six months. So to ensure the check doesn’t bounce, it's best to contact the issuer of the check or the bank to see if they will accept it.

Q: Do personal checks expire?

A: Most personal checks in the United States expire after six months. 

Q: Can I request a new check if mine has expired?

A: Yes, it's best to contact the issuer of the check and request a new one. They may also be able to issue payment through electronic transfer or other means.

Q: Why do checks expire after 6 months?

A: It's for security purposes and to help ensure the availability of funds.

Q: Can I still deposit a post-dated check after it has expired?

A: You can attempt it, but to ensure the funds are available from the check issuer, it's best to contact the issuer of the check or the bank to see if they will accept it.

Q: Can I cash a payroll check after it has expired?

A: It's best to contact the issuer of the check or the bank to see if they will accept it. If not, then you may need to request a new, reissued check. 

Q: What happens to unclaimed checks after they expire?

A: Unclaimed checks may be sent to the state's unclaimed property department after a certain period.

Q: Can I still use a cashier's check after it expires?

A: Cashier’s checks have different expiration or void dates depending on the state in which they’re issued. So it's best to contact the issuer of the check or the bank to see if they will accept it.

In summary, checks typically expire after six months from the date they were written, although some check types have later expiration dates. It's important to cash or deposit a check within this timeframe to avoid any issues. If you have an expired check, contact the issuer or bank for a resolution.

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