Writing Wedding Checks: Who Should It Be Addressed To?

It is possible to write a wedding check to two people, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the couple can deposit the check without any issues. Firstly, use the couple's pre-married or maiden names, as it can take time for name changes to be processed by the bank. Secondly, use or instead of and between their names to ensure either person can deposit the check into their individual account without requiring both parties to be present. For example, write Kim Jones or Jane Smith instead of Kim Jones and Jane Smith. This will provide flexibility and convenience for the couple when depositing the check.

Using or vs and to separate names

When writing a wedding check, it is important to know the implications of using "or" versus "and" to separate the names of the two payees. Here are some key points to consider:

Using "Or"

• Using "or" between the names (e.g., "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia") allows either individual to cash or deposit the check without the other's endorsement. This provides flexibility and convenience, especially if one person is unavailable.
• However, some banks may still require both parties to sign, depending on their policies to protect against fraud.
• Using "or" is generally recommended for wedding checks to ensure the couple can easily deposit or cash the gift, even if they don't have a joint account.

Using "And"

• Using "and" between the names (e.g., "Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia") typically requires both individuals to endorse and cash the check together. This ensures that both parties are involved and provides an extra layer of security.
• If one person is unavailable or unable to sign, the other party may need to request a new check or obtain a notarized power of attorney to handle the transaction on the other's behalf.
• Using "and" is less common for wedding checks but may be appropriate if the giver wants to ensure both individuals are involved in depositing the gift.

In summary, using "or" provides more flexibility, while using "and" adds an extra layer of security. When writing a wedding check, it is generally advisable to use "or" to make it easier for the couple to access the funds, especially if they don't share a joint account. However, it is essential to ensure that the funds are readily available in your account to avoid any issues when the couple deposits the check.

Addressing the check to one person vs two

When addressing a wedding check to two people, there are a few things to consider to ensure the couple can easily cash the gift. Using "or" between the two names (e.g., "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia") will allow either person to deposit the check into their individual account. On the other hand, using "and" (e.g., "Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia") will likely require both individuals to be present at the time of deposit or for the check to be deposited into a joint account.

If you are close to the couple and know their preferences, addressing the check to the person you feel closest to may be the safest option. In this case, use their pre-wedding name or maiden name to avoid any issues with name changes. You can also reference the couple together in the memo portion of the check by writing "To the newlyweds."

Another option is to use both members' pre-married or maiden names on the check, especially if you are unsure about their name change plans. This allows either person to deposit the check, regardless of their name change status. However, be sure to use "or" between their names to provide maximum flexibility.

It is important to note that even if you use "or," the bank may still require both parties to sign due to varying policies across different financial institutions.

To avoid any potential issues, some people prefer to give a wedding check to just one person, usually the groom, as the bride may face challenges depositing the check before changing her name officially. However, this may not be the best option if the couple does not share the same last name or if the bride plans to keep her maiden name.

Depositing a check with two names

If the check is unclear as to whether it is payable to both or just one of the payees (for example, if the word "and/or" is used), it is best to ask the bank about their specific guidelines. It is also worth noting that banks can set their own policies, so it is always a good idea to contact the bank to verify their policy before attempting to deposit or cash the check.

In some cases, the bank may require that the funds be deposited into a joint checking account. This means that both individuals will have full access to the funds and can make deposits and withdrawals without the other person being present. Carefully consider this decision before opening a joint account, as it may not be the best option for everyone.

If you are unable or unwilling to open a joint account, you may have other options. You can ask the person or company that issued the check to reissue it using the word "or" between the names instead of "and" or request that it be written out to only one person. Alternatively, both people can sign the check and bring it to the bank in person to cash it instead of depositing it into an account.

What to do if a check bounces

Bouncing a check can be a troublesome and expensive ordeal. If you've accidentally bounced a check, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue.

What to do if you've bounced a check

• Contact the recipient: As soon as you realize you've bounced a check, get in touch with the bank, company, or individual who received the check. Explain the situation and discuss how you plan to remedy it.
• Make the payment: Arrange to pay the full amount of the check, as well as any associated fees, such as a returned check charge. If you now have the funds in your account, you can ask the recipient to redeposit the check. However, keep in mind that a returned check can generally only be deposited once.
• Pay your fees: After making the payment, pay any fees charged by your bank or credit union. These fees can range from $20 to $40, depending on the state you live in. If this is your first bounced check, your bank may agree to waive the fee, especially if you've been a good customer.
• Make changes to your banking habits: Review your banking habits to ensure that you don't encounter this issue again in the future.

What to do if you've received a bounced check

• Contact the sender: Get in touch with the person or company who sent the bounced check as soon as possible. Explain the circumstances and politely request payment. If they agree to pay, the issue is resolved.
• Wait and redeposit the check: If the issuer asks you to wait a few days and redeposit the check, try to cash the check at the issuer's bank. This way, if it bounces again, you can avoid an additional NSF charge from your bank.
• Send a "bad check" demand letter: If you're having trouble getting a response from the check issuer, send them a formal request for payment, known as a "bad check" demand letter. Send this letter by certified mail and include as many details as possible.
• Consider taking legal action: If all else fails, you may need to sue the check issuer in small claims court. The terms of suing in small claims court vary by state, but you can generally sue for up to a few thousand dollars. Be sure to bring all relevant documentation to court, including the bounced check, correspondence, and the certified demand letter.

How to write a thank-you note for a check

It is possible to write a wedding check to two people, but there are certain protocols to follow. Firstly, it is important to use the couple's pre-married or maiden names. Secondly, use the word "or" instead of "and" between their names to ensure either person can cash the check without the other present.

Now, onto the thank-you note! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to write a meaningful thank-you note for a check, perhaps received as a wedding gift:

Step 1: Keep it genuine

The goal of expressing appreciation is to let the person know how their actions have impacted you. Ensure your message is authentic and avoid any hidden agendas.

Step 2: Share what you appreciate and why

Focus on the impact of the gift on you and explain what you appreciate about it and why. For example, you could say, "Thank you for your generosity. We are so pleased you decided to help us with our endeavour." This will help the giver understand why you feel the way you do.

Step 3: Choose an appropriate card

Select a card that fits the occasion. For instance, a card sent after a birthday can be light-hearted and colourful, whereas a card sent after a funeral should be more subdued.

Step 4: Express gratitude and provide details

Begin with gratitude for the giver's presence at the event, their generosity, attentiveness, or any other suitable sentiment. Then, provide more detail on how you will use the money and why you are happy to have received it. For example, "We were dreaming of a honeymoon in Hawaii, and your present is one of the reasons we can afford it now."

Step 5: Make it personal

When saying thank you for money, ensure your note is personalised and sincere. Include specific details on how you will use the gift.

Step 6: Write neatly

If you don't often write by hand, practice your thank-you note before writing it on the card. Ensure your handwriting is legible.

Step 7: Send it

Handwritten cards are more likely to be saved than emails, so consider writing your message on a card and giving it directly to the person or sending it via mail.

Remember to be prompt with your thank-you note and always mean what you write!

Frequently asked questions