Writing Wedding Checks: A Guide For Guests

Writing a cheque as a wedding gift is a thoughtful way to ensure the couple can buy something they truly want or need. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the couple can easily cash the cheque without any hassle. Firstly, it's best to avoid using and when writing the names of the couple on the cheque. Instead, use or to ensure either person can deposit the cheque without the other person being present. It's also a good idea to use the couple's pre-married names, as they may not have updated their bank details with their new married name yet. Finally, it's recommended to put the cheque inside a greeting card with a personal message, rather than simply sticking it in an envelope, to add a thoughtful touch.

Use their pre-wedding names

When writing a wedding check, it's important to use the couple's full, legal names. This means that you should use their pre-wedding names, or "maiden names", as they are sometimes known. This is because, even if the couple intends to change their names after the wedding, they may want to cash the check before the paperwork is filed. Additionally, the name-changing process can take time, and the couple could hit a snag with the bank if your check is addressed to their not-yet-official new names. Using their pre-wedding names also allows either member of the couple to cash the check, without the other person needing to be present.

When writing a check to a couple, it's also important to separate their names with "or" instead of "and". For example, write "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia" instead of "Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia". This will ensure that either person can deposit the check into their individual account without the endorsement of the other person.

It's also important to double-check the spelling of the names, as well as the names themselves. Wedding invitations and websites often use first and middle names, which could be misleading if you're not familiar with both spouses. When in doubt, use the first and last names that you know best.

Write the check to one person

Writing a cheque as a wedding gift can be a thoughtful and practical way to ensure the couple can spend the money on whatever they please. Here are some tips on how to write a cheque to one person in the couple:

Use Their Pre-Wedding Name

Use the individual's pre-wedding name, especially if they are changing their last name. This will ensure they can cash the cheque before the name change goes through, which could take months. If you are unsure about their name-change plans, it is best to use their pre-wedding name.

Use "OR" Instead of "AND"

If you are writing a cheque to both individuals in the couple, use "or" instead of "and" between their names. This will ensure that either person can deposit the cheque without the other's endorsement. For example, write "John Smith or Jane Garcia" instead of "John Smith and Jane Garcia".

Make the Cheque Out to One Person

You can avoid the complexity of the above point by simply writing the cheque out to one person. This will also mean the couple does not have to wait for a joint bank account to be set up before depositing the cheque. If you are concerned about offending the other person, you can include a note in the card to clarify that the gift is for both of them.

Mail the Cheque

Mailing the cheque will ensure it does not get misplaced at the wedding. It is appropriate to mail the cheque any time before the wedding or shortly after. Do not wait more than three months post-wedding to mail the cheque. Address it to a permanent address where you know the couple will receive it.

Include a Personal Note

Put the cheque in a greeting card with a personal message. Congratulate the couple and include a personal statement, such as a shared memory. This will make the gift more meaningful and show that it is intended to carry significance.

Use or instead of and

When writing a cheque for a wedding gift, it is important to use the word "or" instead of "and" between the names of the couple. For example, if the couple's names are Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia, the cheque should be written as "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia". This is because, if you use "and", most banks will require both people to be present at the time of deposit or for the account used to be in both their names. Using "or" ensures that either person can deposit the cheque into their individual account without the endorsement of the other person.

This tip can also be applied to other situations, such as writing a cheque for a child. In this case, you can write the minor's name along with "or [parent's name]". This allows the family to deposit the cheque however they manage their finances.

It is also important to use the couple's full, legal pre-married names on the cheque. Although one or both individuals may plan to change their names after the wedding, they will most likely want to cash the cheque before the paperwork is filed. Using their pre-married names ensures that the name on the cheque matches the name on the bank account at the time of deposit.

When writing a wedding cheque, it is also crucial to follow other basic check-writing guidelines. Use permanent ink, write the exact date, fill in the numeric gift amount and write it out in words, and make sure to sign the cheque. Additionally, it is recommended to put the cheque in a wedding card, as this is considered thoughtful and keeps the cheque secure.

Include a memo

Memos are optional, but they are encouraged. You can write something like "To the newlyweds!" in this field, especially if you've only made the check out to one person. This reinforces the idea that the gift is for both parties. If you are making the check out to the bride, make it out in her maiden name because she most likely hasn't changed her name at the bank yet. You can also write a personal message in the memo, such as addressing a shared memory.

Put the check in a card

When you're giving a wedding gift, it's important to make sure that the happy couple will be able to use your gift without any hassle. Putting your cheque in a card is a great way to ensure your gift is secure, and it's also a nice touch to include a meaningful message to the newlyweds. Here are some tips to make sure your gift is extra special:

Choose the Right Card

Select a wedding card that is large enough to fit your cheque without folding it. You can also opt for a small gift box and wrap it with nice paper and a ribbon. This adds a fancier presentation and ensures your gift doesn't get lost or thrown away accidentally.

Write a Thoughtful Message

Address the card to both the bride and groom, and include a personal message. Congratulate them, wish them a happy life together, and share a memory or anecdote. You can also use this opportunity to explain what your gift is for, especially if you're giving them enough for a specific purchase, like dinner at their favourite restaurant.

Seal and Deliver

Seal your card and put it in an envelope. If you're mailing your gift, make sure to use permanent ink and address it to a permanent address where you know one or both members of the couple will receive it. It's appropriate to mail your gift any time before the wedding or shortly after, but don't wait more than three months post-wedding. If you're attending the wedding, you can also give your gift in person.

Frequently asked questions