There are several ways you can use to cash your check, such as contacting a teller, cash the check at an ATM, using a bank app to deposit the check electronically, and so on.
What can I do with a ripped check?
Do you have a ripped or damaged check and are afraid you won’t be able to get your money? There are several solutions that you can learn to cash your check.
You probably know that when you receive a check, you can either cash it or deposit it in your account. However, what can you do if you accidentally ripped a check before you cash it? Of course, if a check is torn, it can hinder him go through the bank’s automated processing machines and make it difficult to gain access to your money. Thus, the cashing of a damaged check may or may not be carried out depending on a number of reasons. However, before taking any action, you should make sure that the check is valid.
As you know, a check can be sent by various senders such as employer, friends or family, survey sites, and so on. However, regardless of the sender, you must recognize whether the received check is real, because if the check contains invalid information, it cannot be cashed. However, what should you pay attention to?
First of all, in order to make sure that the check is valid, you must check an account number, the signature of the check writer, an amount of the check (both in words and numbers), check writer’s name, the date the check was drawn and so on. Also, you should pay attention to the fact that the check must have a certain length, size and paper. Since the check goes through the bank check reading machines, it must be printed with a special magnetic ink. However, if the check is seriously damaged, then tellers may refuse you to cash it, since the machines will not be able to read all the necessary details of the check. Also, if the check is invalid, then it cannot be cashed even if the teller will tape the pieces back together.
How to cash a check?
You have several options to try if your check is torn, ripped or damaged. Pay attention to the main ones:
- Cash your check with a teller
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is to visit the nearest bank branch. Fortunately, most banks have multiple branches so you don’t have to search long. Also, you can always find on the Internet the address of the branch nearest to you. Another important point: if you decide to visit the bank, then you must have your original ID, passport or driver’s license with you. A debit card is also often required. If you do not have one, the teller may ask you to fill out additional forms, which will take some time.
Please note that in some banks it is necessary to deposit the check to your bank account before you cash it out, especially if the check is from another bank. Most banks do not charge any fees, but if the check bounces, the bank can reimburse themselves from your bank account. Please be aware that many banks charge a processing fee for a returned payment. Thus, be prepared for additional costs.
- Cash the check at the ATM
While cashing a check with a teller is the most common way, it’s not the only one. Another good option you can use is to cash your check at the ATMs of most banks. If you cash a check at an ATM, then often you do not have to present your photo ID, but you will need a debit card, which will help you identify your account. Also note that in an ATM money is often available immediately.
- Use a retailer
If you are looking to cash a government check or payroll check, then you can also turn to large retailers. Remember, they only accept certain types of checks, and will most likely refuse if you have a personal check. Also, of course, there are options that will help you cash a personal check, however, they charge some fee for this, which may depend on your location or the amount of the check.
- Deposit the check electronically
Most banks give their customers the ability to electronically deposit checks into their accounts. In order to do this, you need a smartphone and a mobile app. Typically, banks require you to download their app and then photograph both sides of the check. However, remember that every bank has its own process, so read the instructions before taking any action.
- Use a prepaid card
You probably know that now more and more banks are issuing a prepaid card to people without accounts. So you can also deposit a check to withdraw cash at some ATMs if you have a prepaid card. However, it is important to know that this option includes a commission that depends on the type of card.
How can I cash a ripped check?
Of course, most people are interested in the question of whether they can cash out a ripped check, but no one can provide a definite answer to this question. Often, how banks handle damaged or ripped checks depends on banking policy. If you accidentally ripped a check, all you can do is take it to your bank and ask the teller if it can be cashed. However, it also depends on the condition of the check and your bank. Often, if the routing numbers and printed accounts are damaged, then the ATM will not be able to process the check. Also, you should be aware that the policy of some banks does not allow the processing of torn or damaged checks, even in electronic form.
