Can I Use Checks With an Old Address?
If you’re wondering if it’s okay to use checks with an old address, the answer is yes — most of the time.
Having a checkbook with your old address isn’t so unusual these days. Checks can come in handy sometimes, but many of us don’t need to use them too often in this era of online electronic payments. Because of this, it’s easy to see how the address on checks might become outdated.
Key Points
• Using checks with an old address is generally acceptable as long as the routing and account numbers remain accurate for processing payments.
• Informing recipients about an outdated address on a check is advisable to ensure smooth communication regarding payments or receipts.
• New checks should be ordered if there are changes to the bank account number or routing number due to bank mergers or account closures.
• Checks do not expire as long as the bank account is open and the check details are accurate, but closed accounts render checks unusable.
• Alternative payment methods like money orders, cashier’s checks, or P2P transfer apps can be considered if using checks is not preferred.
Can You Use a Personal Check With an Old Address?
It is possible to use a personal check with an old address on it as long as it still has the correct routing and account numbers on it. If those numbers properly identify which bank and account the money should come from in order to pay a check, you’re good to go. However, it’s a good idea to let the bank know about a change of address to ensure they send statements and other important information about the account to the correct location.
In addition, it can be helpful to let the check recipient know that the address on the check is old just in case they need to send a receipt or any other correspondence regarding the payment via mail.
It’s a different story if you get a new bank account number or the bank changed routing numbers — this can happen, for instance, when one bank merges with another. In this situation, it is necessary to order new checks with the correct information on them.
It’s important to make sure a check’s routing numbers and account number are accurate. If someone knowingly writes a check for an account that has already been closed, this is considered writing a bad check, which is a form of fraud. Because of this, it’s a good idea to confirm check details, including your address, are current and accurate whenever you move or switch banks or set up a new checking account.
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Can You Use a Business Check With an Old Address
It is possible to use a business check vs. a personal check that has an old address on it as long as the account number and routing number are accurate. The main difference between business checks and personal checks is that business checks are drawn on personal accounts and business checks are drawn on business accounts.
Can You Use a Personal Check With a Wrong Address?
It’s fair to wonder, is it really okay if my checks have the wrong address? Whether it’s a typo on the check or you moved, this situation definitely happens.
While writing a personal check with the wrong address on it isn’t ideal, it is possible to use one. As mentioned earlier, as long as the routing number and account number for your checking account are accurate, the check can be cashed properly. However, as noted previously, you may want to inform the check recipient of your current correct address in case they need it. And, of course, if you open a new bank account, you’ll want to make sure that your address on the checks you order is correct.
Can You Use a Business Check With a Wrong Address?
Even if the address on a business check isn’t just outdated but wrong, it is still possible to write a business check with the wrong address on it as long as the routing number and account number listed on the check remain accurate.
Most businesses will want to order new checks with the correct address on them to avoid confusion about where their business is located and where correspondence should be directed. But they don’t need to worry if they have old checks left to use up. Those checks should still be fine to use.
Do Unwritten Checks Expire?
As long as an individual keeps their account open and the correct account number and routing number remain on a check, the check won’t expire. There is an important exception, however. If someone closes a bank account, this means the checks associated with the account become unusable.
Another situation to be aware of is that bank routing numbers can change, especially when banks merge. So it’s a good idea to confirm from time to time that a check’s information is up to date.
When Are Checks With an Old Address Unusable?
Checks with an old address on them only become unusable if the routing number or account number listed on the check are inaccurate. This causes problems because these numbers are used to verify that the check is good and identify the account the money needs to be withdrawn from in order to process the check.
Ordering New and Correct Checks
If an individual needs new checks for any reason — such as a desire to update their address — these are the steps they’ll generally take to order new ones.
• Log on to their online bank account. It’s usually possible to order checks online or via a mobile account dashboard.
• Request a counter check. If someone is really in a rush and can’t wait for new checks to come in the mail, they can go to a local bank branch and purchase counter checks. These are temporary checks that will have your account information on them, and they typically cost $1 or $2 per check, though fees may vary.
• Review terms and fees. All banks charge different fees to buy checks or a checkbook, so double check how much doing so will cost.
Changing Your Address on Checks
If you need to change the address listed on the checks in your personal checkbook, order more checks via one of the methods previously mentioned. This can be done online or via your mobile banking app. You may also be able to order checks in person at your bank.
Do You Need to Write Your Address on a Check?
Checks typically have an address already printed on them. Therefore it is not necessary for the check writer to write it on the check themselves. However, some people may prefer that only their name appears on their checks. Maybe they know they’ll be moving soon, or perhaps they simply prefer this for privacy and security reasons.
If you do need to write your address on a check that doesn’t have your address — perhaps because the recipient such as a merchant is requesting it — it’s generally best to:
• Use blue or black pen
• Print your new address under your name at the upper lefthand corner of the check
• See if the business or merchant wants your phone number as well; this is a fairly common request so they can reach you if necessary.
Do Checks Need an Address?
Checks do not need to have an address printed on them. However, if you choose to omit an address (say, because you know you’ll likely be moving soon), some businesses may hesitate to accept the check. They might ask for a form of ID or a phone number in case they need to contact you.
Alternatives to Personal Checks
If an individual doesn’t want to write a check for whatever reason, these are some alternative payment options.
Money Orders
It’s possible to buy a money order from the post office and other locations, including some big box stores and grocery stores. Money orders are a very quick form of payment, and can cost about $2 in fees.
Cashier’s Checks
A cashier’s check, which usually costs a small fee, can be bought at the bank and is a check that is guaranteed by the bank. It will usually require a visit to the bank to get one, though.
P2P Money Transfer Apps
P2P money transfer apps — like Venmo — that allow users to instantly transfer cash electronically to an individual as long as they have enough money in their bank account can be a convenient option. These are often free to use but they can involve a small fee (a percentage of the transaction) in certain situations, such as if you’re sending money via credit card. (Sometimes e-checks, or electronic checks, are a payment option for utilities and other accounts. While not a P2P app, they do allow for a seamless transfer of funds.)
The Takeaway
As long as the routing and account numbers on the check are accurate, it’s possible to use a check with an old, incorrect address on it. That said, it’s a good idea to order new checks with the correct address on them to help lessen any confusion the wrong address might cause with check recipients. Having all your details correct can help make banking as simple as possible.
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FAQ
Does it matter if the address on my check is wrong?
It is possible to use a check with a wrong address on it. The key is to make sure both the routing number and account number are still accurate on the check before using it.
Can you cash a check with an incorrect address?
Yes, you can cash a check with the incorrect address on it as long as the routing and account numbers on the check are accurate.
Do checks need an address?
Checks commonly have an address on them, but it’s not a requirement. If you are using a check without an address, the business or service you are playing may require some additional ID or info.
About the author
Jacqueline DeMarco
Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.
Photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub
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