Wedding Account Checks: Ensure Your Money Is Secure

Writing a cheque as a wedding gift can be tricky, and you want to make sure the happy couple can easily access your gift. Here are some tips to ensure your cheque is written correctly and avoid any potential issues for the newlyweds. Firstly, it's best to use the couple's full legal names and pre-wedding names. Even if one or both plan to change their names, using their pre-wedding names will allow them to deposit the cheque without waiting for the name change process to be completed. If writing the cheque to both individuals, separate their names with or instead of and to ensure either person can deposit the cheque without requiring multiple signatures. Using permanent ink, write the exact date, the numeric gift amount, and the amount in words, filling any remaining space with a line to prevent alterations. Include a memo like To the newlyweds! and don't forget to sign the cheque. Finally, place the cheque in a greeting card with a personal message. It's best to mail the cheque to a permanent address to avoid it being misplaced at the wedding.

Use or instead of and between names

When writing a wedding check, it's important to ensure that the couple will be able to easily deposit their gift. Using the word "or" between the names of the two recipients, instead of "and", means that either person can deposit the check into their account without the other person needing to be present. This is because using "and" indicates that the payment is for both recipients and both endorsements are typically required for the check to be processed.

For example, if you are writing a check to Kim Jones and their partner Jackie Garcia, you would write the names as "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia". This means that Kim or Jackie can deposit the check without the other person needing to endorse the check or be at the bank with them. If you use "and" instead of "or", in this case, most banks will require both Kim and Jackie to be present at the bank and endorse the check.

Using "or" is especially important if the couple does not have a joint bank account. Even if they do have a joint account, using "or" gives them the flexibility to deposit the check into either their joint account or their individual accounts.

In addition to using "or" instead of "and", it's important to use the couple's full pre-married or legal names. Avoid using honorifics such as Mr. or Mrs. or playful formats such as "Mr. and Mrs. Carter". Using full names helps to ensure that the couple will be able to easily deposit the check.

Use pre-wedding names

When writing a wedding check, it's important to use the couple's full, legal names. If you're writing a check to the couple, separate their names with "or" instead of "and". This will ensure that either person can deposit the check into their account without the other person's endorsement.

It's also best to stick with the couple's pre-wedding names. Although either or both newlyweds may plan to change their name after the wedding, they will most likely want to cash the check before that paperwork is filed. Using their pre-wedding names will also avoid any issues with the bank if the check is addressed to their not-yet-official new name(s). If you're unsure whether the couple will be changing their names, using their pre-wedding names is the safest option.

If you're addressing the check to just one member of the couple, you can reference the couple together in the memo portion of the check by writing "To the newlyweds".

Include a memo

Memos are optional but encouraged. Feel free to write something like "To the newlyweds!" in this field, especially if you've only addressed one person on the cheque. This reinforces the idea that the gift is for both parties.

If you are addressing the cheque to just one person, you can reference the couple in the memo portion of the cheque by writing "To the newlyweds" or "congrats Chris and Kris".

If you are sending the cheque after the wedding, you could also write the couple's wedding date as the date on the cheque.

Use permanent ink

When writing a wedding cheque, it's important to use permanent ink. This is because permanent ink seeps into the paper, making it harder for scammers to tamper with your cheque. Regular blue or black pens typically contain dye-based ink that can be washed off easily. Scammers use a method called "check washing" to steal your money. They erase the original name and dollar amount on the cheque and replace it with a different payee and a higher amount. Permanent ink helps to prevent this type of fraud.

To ensure the best protection against cheque fraud, use black gel ink that is "indelible", or long-lasting. Gel ink soaks into the paper fibres and is much harder to remove. You can also use fountain pen ink, but be aware that not all fountain pen inks are created equal when it comes to fraud protection. Some recommended fountain pen inks for fraud protection include R&K Salix, Sailor Souboku, and Noodler's Black and Warden series. These inks are waterproof and resistant to common solvents used by forgers.

In addition to using permanent ink, there are other steps you can take to protect yourself from cheque fraud. Mail containing cheques should be brought directly to a post office instead of left in a mailbox. Make payments online from a secure computer whenever possible, and pick up incoming mail promptly. Check your bank account regularly to look for any suspicious activity.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your wedding cheque gift is safely received and cannot be tampered with by scammers.

Mail the cheque

Mailing a cheque as a wedding gift is a great way to ensure the couple receives your gift and can access the funds without any hassle. Here are some tips to make sure your gift arrives safely and can be easily deposited:

Addressing the Envelope

Use a permanent marker to write the address on the envelope. Make sure you have the correct and full address of the couple, including their names, house number, street name, city, state, and zip code. You can address the envelope to one or both members of the couple. If you are unsure about their living situation or prefer to be discreet, you can address it to one person. It is best to avoid addressing it to generic titles such as "Mr. and Mrs." and instead use their names.

Timing

Security

Using a paper clip, attach the cheque to a small card or sturdy paper so that it does not bend during mailing. Place the card and cheque inside the envelope. Seal the envelope securely and consider using a tracking service so you can confirm when the couple has received your gift. This will also help if there are any issues with delivery.

Presentation

Although mailing a cheque may seem less personal than giving a gift in person, you can still make your gift special by including a thoughtful card. Write a meaningful message to the couple, addressing them by name. Congratulate them, share a memory, or wish them well for the future. You can also include a note indicating that the cheque is for a specific purpose, such as a honeymoon or a down payment on a new home. This adds a personal touch and shows that you have put thought into your gift.

Amount

Consider giving an amount that has a special meaning for you and the couple. For example, you could give them enough money to enjoy a nice dinner or contribute towards something on their registry. If you are unsure about how much to give, traditional wedding etiquette suggests the following guidelines:

• Co-worker or distant family friend/relative: $50-75
• Relative or friend: $75-100
• Close relative or close friend: $100-150

Remember to choose an amount that fits within your budget and does not strain your finances.

Writing the Cheque

When writing the cheque, use permanent ink and make it payable to only one person. This will allow the couple to deposit the funds without having to wait for a joint account to be set up. Use their pre-wedding names, especially if one or both are planning to change their last names. Using "OR" between their names will also ensure that either person can deposit the cheque. For example, write the cheque to "John Smith OR Jane Doe."

Be sure to include the date, the numeric gift amount, and spell out the amount in words. For example, for a $150 cheque, write "One hundred fifty and 00/100." Cross out any remaining space after the amount to prevent tampering. You can also include a memo, such as "Congratulations to the newlyweds!" and your signature.

Tracking

Keep a record of the cheque number, the amount, and the date you mailed it. This will help you follow up if there are any issues with the couple receiving or depositing the cheque.

By following these steps, you can confidently mail your wedding gift, knowing that it will be a meaningful and hassle-free contribution to the couple's new life together.

Frequently asked questions