I have a joint checking acct with my spouse. However, the old set of checks were issued under my name only...?

Question

Can I let her issue and sign old checks under my name because she's now a joint account holder?

Answer 1

If it is the same account number, she can sign the old checks too. The only time when you'll have a problem is at the store. But for mailing bill payments, she can sign the old ones since the bank has her as an member on the account.

Answer 2

Yes. The name or names on the actual check are immaterial. On the other hand if your spouse tries to write a check at WalMart or some other retailer, it could be a problem. If the check is being written to pay the electric bill or the paper carrier or some other such bill, it won't be a problem.

Answer 3

A smart clerk won't accept joint account checks without both names preprinted on the checks. The receiving bank (Meaning the bank getting your funds.. Such as, for example, Publix deposits the check into their account, which is, for example, Bank of America, and you're drawing on, for example, Bank Atlantic) will probably kick them back if she signs her name, and your bank may go after her for forgery if she signs yours. Just get new checks issued. A good friend of mine went through a nightmarish incident with joint account without both names on the check.