Wedding Check Etiquette: Crafting The Perfect Payee

Writing a cheque as a wedding gift can be tricky. It can feel impersonal, but many couples prefer cash gifts as they can spend the money on whatever they like. If you're going to give a cheque, it's important to make sure you do it correctly so the couple can easily cash the gift.

Firstly, it's best to write the cheque to only one person. This means the couple won't have to wait for a joint bank account to be set up before depositing the cheque. It's also a good idea to use the individual's maiden name, as they may not have changed their name legally yet, or may not plan to at all. Using or instead of and between the names of a couple will also ensure that either person can deposit the cheque.

It's also a good idea to put the cheque inside a greeting card with a personal message. This will make the gift feel more meaningful.

Use the couple's pre-wedding names

When writing a wedding check, it's important to use the couple's full, legal pre-wedding names. This is because, even if they plan to change their names after the wedding, they will most likely want to cash the check before the paperwork is filed. Using their pre-wedding names ensures that the name on the check matches the name on the bank account. In the case of a name change, using the couple's pre-wedding or maiden names on the check is the best option.

It is recommended to use full names whenever possible. While it may be tempting to turn the check into a sentimental document by using a playful format such as "Mr. and Mrs. Carter," this could cause issues at the bank. As a contract to pay a certain individual or set of individuals, a check should be treated as such. Using full names helps to ensure that the check will be accepted by the couple's specific bank and can be deposited without any hassle.

You can make the check out to one person or both partners. If you are writing the check to both members of the couple, separate their names with "or" instead of "and." This ensures that either partner can endorse and deposit the check into their own account without requiring multiple signatures. Using "and" between their names may require both individuals to be present at the bank or for the account to be held jointly by both payees.

When writing a check to a couple, it is important to double-check the spelling and the names themselves. Many wedding invitations and websites use first and middle names, which can be misleading if you are not familiar with both spouses. When in doubt, use the first and last names that you know best for the check.

Use or instead of and between names

When writing a wedding check, it's important to use the word "or" instead of "and" between the couple's names. This allows either person to deposit the check into their individual account without the need for both signatures. For example, write "Kim Jones or Jackie Garcia" instead of "Kim Jones and Jackie Garcia". The latter may require both individuals to be present at the time of deposit or for the account used to be in both their names.

Using "or" provides flexibility and convenience for the couple, especially if they have different last names or if one person is unable to go to the bank. It's also a good idea to use the couple's pre-married or maiden names, as name changes can take time, and they may want to cash the check before or after the wedding, such as for honeymoon expenses. By using their pre-married names, you can be sure that either member of the couple can deposit the check without any issues or delays.

Additionally, it's crucial to double-check the spelling of the couple's names and avoid making assumptions about name changes. If you're unsure, it's best to ask someone close to the couple to confirm their official names. This will prevent any complications or confusion when they go to deposit the check.

When writing the check, be sure to follow the standard best practices. Use permanent ink, write the correct date, fill in the numeric gift amount, and write out the amount in words. Don't forget to sign the check, as your signature authorizes the indicated party to cash it. These steps will ensure that the couple can smoothly cash their wedding check without any unnecessary hassles or delays.

Include a memo

Memos are optional, but they are encouraged, especially if you've only addressed the cheque to one half of the couple. This reinforces the idea that the gift is for both parties. You could write something like "To the newlyweds!" in the memo field.

If you are mailing the cheque, you could also include a note with a personal message inside the card. Address the card to both the bride and groom, and congratulate them on their wedding. Include a personal statement, such as a shared memory.

If you are giving a cheque as a wedding gift, it's important to make sure you nail the details. Incorporating the right names in the right format can be the difference between the happy couple using your gift immediately or facing a back-and-forth with their bank.

Gift-wrap the check

If you're giving a check as a wedding gift and want to make it fancier than simply putting it in an envelope, you can gift-wrap it. Here are some ideas on how to do this:

Choose a Box

Since envelopes containing greeting cards can be mislaid or accidentally thrown away, consider putting the check in a small box. A box with some size and weight is much less likely to be lost.

Wrap the Box

You can wrap the box in nice paper with a ribbon around it. It's always classic to use white or silver wrapping paper or ribbon. If you're planning on giving an envelope containing money or gift cards, transform it into a gift by using a generous length of double satin ivory or white ribbon, or other trimmings to embellish the outside.

Include a Note Card

Even if you gift-wrap the check, still include a note card with a personal message. ALWAYS attach your gift tag or card securely to the gift – it’s very stressful for newlyweds or their family to try to remember who gave what, or match loose cards to random gifts.

Add Embellishments

If you're a little bit crafty, you can make a wonderful impression with embellishments. For example, going simple, especially for a summer, garden or beach wedding, can be fun and classy – maybe add a little bit of lace on plain white or brown paper, or even some newspaper with tulle.

Mail the check

Mailing a wedding check is a great way to ensure that your gift doesn't get lost in the shuffle of the wedding day. It's also a good option if you're travelling to the wedding and don't want to worry about carrying a bulky gift with you. Here are some tips for mailing a wedding check:

• Mail the check to a permanent address where you know one or both members of the couple will receive it.
• Include a greeting card with a personal message. Address the card to both the bride and groom, and include a personal statement or a shared memory.
• Make the check out to only one person, so they don't have to wait for a joint bank account to be set up before depositing the check. Use their pre-married or maiden name, as they may not have changed their name legally yet.
• Consider giving a gift card instead of a check. This can be more convenient for the recipient, as they won't have to go to the bank to cash it.
• If you're mailing the check after the wedding, don't wait more than three months to send it.
• Use permanent ink to fill out the check, and be sure to include the date, the full numeric value, and your signature.

Frequently asked questions