How to verify a check
Quick insights
- Verifying a check can help prevent bounced payments that could result in fees or other hassles.
- Some ways to help verify a check include reviewing the check’s details or contacting the bank named on the check.
- If you think you’ve received a fraudulent check or suspect a scam, acting fast can help safeguard your funds and possibly prevent further loss.
If you receive an unexpected check or simply want to be cautious before depositing one, knowing how to verify a check can help protect your finances.
This guide explains what check verification is, some ways to help verify checks and potential steps to take if you suspect a check is fake.
What is check verification?
Check verification is the process of confirming that a check is drawn on a valid, active account and that the issuer generally has sufficient funds to cover the amount. Rather than depositing a check and waiting to see if it clears, verification involves taking proactive steps to authenticate the document before you accept or deposit it.
Typically, this process evaluates details like the routing number, account number and the physical security features of the paper check itself. While financial institutions have their own backend systems to process and verify checks during the official clearing process, consumer check verification is about the initial screening you can do on your end.
Understanding the basic components of a legitimate check can help add an extra layer of protection to your financial routine.
Verifying a check
If you’d like to verify a check before cashing or depositing it, there are several steps you can take. Some ways you can help to verify a check include:
- Reviewing the check’s details: Check for blurred ink, unusual fonts or missing elements. Valid checks typically list the routing number, account number, check number, date and account holder’s name.
- Checking your mobile banking app: Some banking apps may warn you of suspicious checks or flag concerns during mobile deposit. Features vary depending on your bank.
- Looking for security features: Many legitimate checks have added features, like watermarks, microprinting or color-shifting ink. These details can help indicate authenticity.
- Speaking to the check writer: If you have doubts, ask the issuer about the check directly. Be cautious if they pressure you to hurry or ask you to return excess funds.
If anything about the check appears suspicious, you may want to consider refusing the check and asking for an alternative payment method. If a check bounces or is fake, you may be required to repay any withdrawn funds to the bank.
Check verification services
Some third-party providers have online check verification tools where you can enter information such as the account and routing numbers to confirm the account is open and valid. These online services often verify that the account exists, though they may not show available balances or if the check itself is fraudulent.
The services may be useful for those who regularly receive a large number of checks and need to verify them. As these services typically charge a fee, they’re often used by retailers at the point of sale.
Scenarios that may point to a fake check
When you’re depositing a check from a highly trusted and familiar source, you may not feel the need to verify a check. However, there are some circumstances where it may be a good idea to take some extra steps to verify it.
- Unexpected payments: Receiving a check out of nowhere, especially if you didn’t request a refund or rebate.
- Unknown source: You receive a check from an individual or business you do not know well.
- Overpayment scams: Someone sends you more than you’re owed and asks for the excess back.
- Urgency or pressure: The sender insists you quickly deposit the check and send funds before the check has cleared.
- Suspicious business details: There are errors in the business name or address.
If something about a check feels suspicious, trust your instincts and verify it before moving forward.
What to do if you deposit a fake check
If you deposit a fraudulent check, you may not always recover funds, but acting quickly may help limit losses and protect your accounts.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Contacting your bank immediately: Alert your bank right away if something seems amiss to report fraud. They may be able to freeze the funds or help prevent further losses.
- Reporting the incident: You can also submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and may want to consider reaching out to your state attorney general’s office.
- Keeping an eye on your accounts: Monitoring your banking transactions can help you identify unfamiliar charges or indications of continued fraud.
- Reviewing and learning: Taking note of how the scam occurred may help you avoid similar situations in the future.
In summary
Knowing how to verify a check can help you avoid bounced checks and unnecessary fees. Some ways to confirm a check’s legitimacy include reviewing its information, inspecting its security features or contacting the issuing bank.
If you suspect fraud, taking quick action and reporting it may help protect your finances and prevent further loss.
