I have a personal check from December 2006, can i still cash it?

Question

I received a check around Christmas 2006 and found it in my dresser. Can i still cash it?

Answer 1

Banking laws differ from state to state. Most states consider that checks in excess of 6 months are "stale dated." Contrary to popular belief, a stale dated check can still be cashed... but the drawee's bank has the right to refuse payment on the check or "bounce" it.

You might consider calling the issuer of the check and ask him/her to reissue a new check to avoid potential problems.

Answer 2

Maybe. Legally, checks do not have an expiration date unless the date is printed on the check. However, banks are not required to honor checks they consider 'stale'. Most banks use 6 months as the standard for a 'stale' check.

Answer 3

Technically you have a problem. The bank does not have to honor it and could be angry if you just dump it on them.

The person who wrote the check could rewrite it. If you don't want them to know, remember it will be on their monthly statement and they may be called to verify you cashing it.

Visit the bank and ask for help. They have no reason to not cash the check, but don't want any surprises.

Answer 4

It depends from when in December, because I remember checks either being valid for 3 or 6 months.