Joint Endorsement

Joint Endorsement on Checks: Definition and How It Works

What is a joint endorsement?

A joint endorsement is the requirement that all named payees on a check must sign (endorse) the check before it can be cashed or deposited. It prevents one payee from unilaterally negotiating a check made out to two or more people.

How it works

• If a check is made out to multiple people with “and” (or an ampersand/symbol that means “and”), banks commonly require every named payee to endorse the back of the check.
• If the check uses “or” between names, either payee can typically endorse and negotiate the check.
• Banks and credit unions set their own practices, so exceptions exist. The type of check (e.g., government-issued tax refund) can also affect endorsement rules.

How specific wording affects endorsements

• “Jane Doe and John Doe”, “Jane Doe & John Doe”, or “Jane Doe + John Doe”: generally requires signatures from both payees.
• “Jane Doe or John Doe” or “Jane Doe, John Doe”: often allows either party to endorse, though some institutions still require both.
• Because financial institutions vary, a check’s exact wording isn’t the only determinant—ask the receiving bank if you’re unsure.

Key factors and common exceptions

• Joint accounts: Deposits to a true joint account often don’t require both payees to sign because either account holder already has access to the funds.
• Government checks (e.g., tax refunds) frequently require joint endorsement even when deposited to a joint account.
• State rules and individual bank policies can create different requirements.

Landlord–tenant and roommate situations

• Security deposits written to multiple tenants (often noted as joint tenants, “JT,” or with “and”) usually require all tenants to endorse before the check can be deposited into one person’s account.
• When roommates have separate bank accounts, typical practice is:
• All tenants endorse the refund check.
• One tenant deposits it and then issues a separate payment (check or electronic transfer) to the other tenant(s).

Special situations and complications

• Divorce, restraining orders, or absent payees can complicate joint endorsement. Banks may:
• Ask each party to visit separately and endorse in person.
• Request a reissued check payable differently (e.g., separate checks).
• Require additional documentation to release funds.
• If a payee cannot be reached, request the issuer to reissue the check in a form that reflects current circumstances.

Endorsing a check to someone else (third-party endorsement)

To transfer a check made out to you to another person:
– Endorse the back of the check with your signature.
– Write “Pay to the order of [recipient’s name]” above your signature.
Note: Many banks are reluctant to accept third-party endorsements and may refuse the deposit, so confirm acceptance with the receiving institution beforehand.

Practical tips

• Check the exact payee wording before endorsing.
• Contact your bank if you’re unsure about their endorsement policy—especially for government checks.
• If multiple payees cannot sign together, ask the issuer to reissue separate checks when possible.
• For roommate or landlord refunds, get written confirmation of how the refund will be handled to avoid disputes.

Bottom line

Whether a joint endorsement is required depends primarily on the check’s wording (“and” vs. “or”), the issuing party (private vs. government), and the policies of the bank where the check is negotiated. When in doubt, confirm with the issuing party and the bank to avoid delays or rejected deposits.