You've just received that highly anticipated IRS refund check in the mail, but wait! There are two names on it. What now? Don't fret, this is a common scenario, especially for married couples filing jointly, or even in other unique situations. Cashing an IRS check with two names on it can be a little different from cashing a regular check, but with the right steps, it's totally manageable.
So, are you ready to get that refund into your pocket? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand the Key Players and the Check's Wording
The first and most crucial step is to understand who needs to sign the check and how the names are written on it. This seemingly small detail makes all the difference in the cashing process.
Sub-heading: The "And" vs. "Or" Rule
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"John AND Jane Doe" (or "John & Jane Doe" / "John + Jane Doe"): If the names on your IRS check are joined by "AND" (or the "&" symbol or "+"), it means that both individuals named on the check MUST endorse it. This is a joint endorsement, and banks will generally require both signatures before processing the check. In many cases, banks might even require both parties to be physically present with their IDs. This is the more common scenario for joint tax refunds.
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"John OR Jane Doe": If the names on your IRS check are joined by "OR", it means that either individual named on the check can endorse and cash/deposit it. This offers more flexibility, as only one signature is typically needed. While less common for IRS checks, it's good to be aware of this distinction.
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What if it's just a comma? If the names are separated by a simple comma, like "John Doe, Jane Doe," some banks might allow either party to endorse, while others may still require both. It's always best to contact your bank in this specific situation for clarification.
Step 2: Proper Endorsement of the Check
Once you've identified who needs to sign, the next step is to properly endorse the check. This is where you physically sign the back of the check.
Sub-heading: The Endorsement Process
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Locate the Endorsement Area: On the back of the check, typically near the left short edge, you'll find a section marked "Endorse Here" or a blank space designated for signatures. There's often a line below it stating, "Do not write, stamp, or sign below this line."
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Sign Exactly As Written: Each person whose name appears on the check must sign their name exactly as it is written on the "Pay to the Order Of" line on the front of the check. If there's a slight misspelling on the check, sign it with the misspelled name first, then sign your correct name below it.
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For Deposit Only (Recommended!): To enhance security and ensure the check is only deposited into an account, consider adding a "restrictive endorsement." Below your signature(s), write:
- For Deposit Only to Account Number [Your Account Number] (This is the most secure method as it ties the check directly to a specific account.)
- Alternatively, you can just write ***"For Deposit Only"***. While less secure than including the account number, it still instructs the bank to deposit rather than cash it.
Why is "For Deposit Only" important? If the check were to be lost or stolen after endorsement, adding "For Deposit Only" makes it much harder for someone else to fraudulently cash it.
Step 3: Choosing Your Cashing/Depositing Method
You have a few options for cashing or depositing your IRS check with two names. The best method depends on your banking relationship and the check's specific wording ("AND" vs. "OR").
Sub-heading: Options for Getting Your Funds
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Depositing into a Joint Bank Account (Most Common and Easiest):
- If you have a joint bank account with both names listed on the check, this is usually the simplest and most straightforward option.
- Requirements: Both individuals should endorse the check (especially if it says "AND"), but in many cases, if the funds are going into a joint account, some banks might be more lenient and not require both parties to be present. However, it's always safest to have both parties present with valid IDs.
- Process: Take the properly endorsed check to your bank. You can deposit it at a teller window, through an ATM, or via mobile deposit (if your bank allows multi-endorsement checks through their app).
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Depositing into an Individual Bank Account:
- This can be trickier, especially if the check is made out with "AND."
- Requirements for "AND" checks: Most banks will not allow an "AND" check to be deposited into an individual account, even with both signatures. They want to ensure both parties have a legal claim to the funds. Some banks might allow it if the account holder is one of the named payees and the other payee provides specific authorization or is present with ID. This varies significantly by bank.
- Requirements for "OR" checks: If the check says "OR," either person can usually deposit it into their individual account after endorsing it.
- Process: Contact your bank beforehand to understand their specific policy for depositing a joint check into an individual account. You might need additional documentation or both parties present.
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Cashing at Your Bank (or a Check Cashing Service):
- Cashing a check with two names, especially an IRS check, can be the most challenging option.
- Requirements:
- Both individuals MUST be present (if it's an "AND" check) with valid government-issued identification (driver's license, passport, state ID).
- Both individuals MUST endorse the check in front of the teller.
- Be prepared for the bank to verify the check's legitimacy.
- If you don't have an account at the bank, they might charge a fee or refuse to cash it altogether, especially for large amounts.
- Check Cashing Services: While some check cashing services exist, they often charge high fees and may have even stricter requirements for multi-party checks, particularly government-issued ones. This is generally not recommended due to the fees and potential for complications.
Step 4: What to Bring and What to Expect
No matter which method you choose, being prepared will make the process much smoother.
Sub-heading: Essential Documents and Considerations
- Valid Government-Issued ID: Both individuals named on the check should bring their valid photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, etc.). The names on the IDs should match the names on the check.
- The IRS Check: Ensure it's correctly endorsed (or ready to be endorsed in front of the teller).
- Your Bank Account Information: If depositing, have your account number readily available.
- Copy of Your Tax Return (Optional but Recommended): In some cases, especially if there are discrepancies or questions, the bank might ask for a copy of the tax return associated with the refund to verify the legitimacy of the check and the relationship between the payees.
- Be Prepared for Questions: The bank's primary concern is preventing fraud. Don't be surprised if the teller asks questions about the check's origin or your relationship with the other payee. Be patient and cooperative.
- Large Checks: For very large refund checks, banks might place a hold on the funds for a few business days to ensure the check clears. This is standard procedure and not a cause for alarm.
Step 5: Special Circumstances and Troubleshooting
Life happens, and sometimes one of the named individuals might not be able to participate in the cashing process.
Sub-heading: Navigating Unique Situations
- One Person is Deceased: If one of the individuals named on the check is deceased, the process becomes more complex. You'll likely need to provide a death certificate and potentially documentation proving you are the executor of their estate or have legal authority to act on their behalf. It's highly recommended to contact the IRS and your bank directly in this scenario for specific instructions. The IRS may need to reissue the check in the name of the surviving payee or the estate.
- One Person is Incapacitated or Unavailable: Similar to the above, if one person cannot physically sign or be present, you might need a power of attorney (POA) or other legal documentation granting one person the authority to act on behalf of the other. Again, consult your bank and potentially legal counsel for the precise requirements.
- Divorce or Separation: If the check is issued jointly to individuals who are now divorced or separated, this can be particularly challenging. If the check says "AND," both signatures are still legally required. If one party is uncooperative, you may need to seek legal advice on how to proceed. The bank cannot compel one party to sign. In such cases, the IRS might need to be contacted to inquire about reissuing separate checks, though this is often a lengthy process and not guaranteed.
- Lost or Stolen Check: If your IRS check with two names is lost or stolen, you'll need to contact the IRS immediately to initiate a trace. You can use the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website or call them directly. They will investigate and, if the check hasn't been cashed, issue a replacement. If it has been fraudulently cashed, you'll need to file a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you further:
How to know if my IRS check requires both signatures?
Check the "Pay to the Order Of" line on the check. If the names are joined by "AND" (or '&', '+'), both signatures are generally required. If it's "OR," either can sign.
How to endorse an IRS check with two names correctly?
Both individuals must sign on the back of the check, exactly as their names appear on the front. It's highly recommended to write "For Deposit Only" and optionally your account number below the signatures for security.
How to deposit an IRS check with two names into a single account?
This is typically only allowed if the names are joined by "OR." If it's "AND," most banks will require a joint account or specific authorization/presence of both parties. Always check with your bank's policy first.
How to cash an IRS check with two names if one person isn't available?
If the check says "AND," it will be very difficult to cash without both parties present and signing. You may need a power of attorney or, in cases of death, legal documentation for the estate. Contact your bank for specific requirements.
How to get a replacement for a lost or stolen IRS check with two names?
Contact the IRS directly (via their website's "Where's My Refund?" tool or by phone) to initiate a trace and request a replacement. Be prepared to provide identification and details about the original check.
How to handle an IRS check with two names if we are divorced?
If the check states "AND," both signatures are still legally required. If cooperation is an issue, consider seeking legal advice. The IRS may not reissue separate checks easily.
How to avoid issues when cashing a joint IRS check?
Always check the wording ("AND" vs. "OR"), ensure both parties endorse correctly, bring valid IDs for both, and ideally, deposit into a joint account. Calling your bank beforehand to confirm their specific policies is always a good idea.
How to know if a bank will accept mobile deposit for a joint IRS check?
Mobile deposit policies vary by bank. Many banks have restrictions on multi-endorsement checks for mobile deposit. Check your bank's mobile app guidelines or contact their customer service to confirm.
How to verify an IRS check's legitimacy?
IRS checks are official U.S. Treasury checks. Banks have procedures to verify their authenticity. You can also look for security features like a watermark, security thread, and color-shifting ink.
How to get help from the IRS if I have problems cashing my joint check?
You can call the IRS directly on their toll-free number (800-829-1040) for assistance with refund inquiries. Have your tax return information and the check details ready.
