Imagine receiving a check for a large sum of money that looks legitimate, but you’re unsure if it’s real. Knowing how to verify a check is crucial in situations like this to avoid falling for fraud. Whether you're using a check verifier or taking a close look at the check’s front and back, there are reliable ways to make sure it’s legit.
We'll walk you through various methods to help you confidently verify a check online or in person, so you can protect yourself from potential scams.
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How to tell if a check is real
Determining whether a check is real involves a few key steps that focus on both visual inspection and verification through official channels.
Tangible steps to verify a check
A thorough physical inspection of a check can help you identify signs of forgery or fraud. Here are the key visual and tactile elements to examine:
1. Paper quality
Authentic checks are printed on high-quality, thick paper that feels different from regular printer paper. The texture is often rougher or more durable, while counterfeit checks may feel thinner or smoother, lacking this distinct quality.
2. Watermarks
Hold the check up to a light source to search for watermarks, which are commonly used as a security feature on legitimate checks. If a watermark is missing or poorly replicated, it’s a strong indicator the check could be fake.
3. Raised printing
Run your fingers over the check, especially around the check number, issuer’s name, and other key details. Legitimate checks often feature slightly raised printing, while flat or smudged printing may indicate a forgery.
4. Check alignment and layout
Authentic checks are precisely aligned with uniform margins. If the design appears off-center or elements like the check number or date are misaligned, it may suggest tampering or counterfeiting.
5. Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) Line
The MICR line at the bottom of the check contains the routing number, account number, and check number, printed in magnetic ink that bank scanners read. Run your fingers over the MICR line to feel the texture—it should be slightly raised. Fake checks may have a MICR line printed in regular ink or with a flat, non-raised texture, which won’t be detected by bank machines.
6. Routing and account numbers
Carefully inspect the routing and account numbers printed on the check. They should be clearly visible—faded, smudged, or altered numbers are red flags.
7. Check number and duplicate checks
Check the number in the upper right-hand corner to ensure it’s not unusually low (e.g., under 100), as scammers often use low numbers on counterfeit checks. If you receive multiple checks from the same issuer, confirm that the check numbers don’t repeat.
8. Signature
Examine the signature to ensure it appears authentic and consistent with other checks or documents you’ve received from the same issuer. A signature that looks irregular, blurry, or printed rather than handwritten can be a sign of forgery.
Additional steps to verify a check’s authenticity
Beyond physical inspection, there are additional verification steps that help ensure the authenticity of a check:
9. Cross-check issuer information
Verify the check issuer’s details, such as their name, address, and phone number. Conduct an online search to confirm if the business or individual is legitimate, and ensure the contact details match those on their official website. This step is especially crucial for checks from unfamiliar or unexpected sources, as discrepancies may signal potential fraud.
10. Use a check verifier tool
Use online tools and apps to see if a check is real. Services like CrossCheck offer instant verification tools to confirm whether a check is valid. Simply input the routing and account numbers into these tools to check if the payment is legitimate. Some of these services may require a fee for use, so check pricing details before proceeding.
11. Verify bank platforms
To verify a check online, some banks provide online platforms or apps that allow you to verify a check. This method confirms that the check was issued by the bank and ensures the account it’s drawn from is active.
12. Contact the issuing bank
One of the most reliable ways to verify a check is to directly contact the bank that issued it. Use the bank’s official contact details (not the ones printed on the check) and ask if the check was issued and whether sufficient funds are available.
What to do if a check is fake
If you do receive a fake check, you need to know how to take action.
- Avoid depositing the check: Do not attempt to process or deposit the check, as this could lead to overdraft fees, penalties, or issues with your bank.
- Notify your bank: Immediately inform your bank that you have received a fake check, even if you haven’t deposited it, to protect your account and prevent any potential damage.
- Report to authorities: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and/or your local law enforcement. This helps prevent further scams and alerts authorities to potential fraud.
- Contact the issuing bank: Notify the bank that supposedly issued the check. They may investigate the issue, track the scammer, or take steps to prevent similar fraud in the future.
- Monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts for any unusual transactions or unauthorized activity after discovering the fake check, as fraudsters may attempt further actions.
- Dispose of the check safely: Safely shred or securely dispose of the fake check to ensure it cannot be used again by others.
FAQs
What should I do if I suspect a check is fake?
If you suspect a check is fake, do not cash or deposit it. Contact your bank immediately and report your concerns. It's also important to notify the issuing bank and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local law enforcement to help prevent future scams. Taking swift action can protect your finances and prevent the scam from affecting others.
How can I avoid receiving a fake check?
To avoid receiving a fake check, be cautious when accepting checks from unfamiliar individuals or businesses. Be wary of unsolicited offers, prize winnings, or overpayment scams. In large transactions, insist on secure payment methods or verified checks from trusted financial institutions. If something seems too good to be true, it likely is. Always verify the source and legitimacy of the check before accepting it, and avoid rushing into any transaction without thorough due diligence.
What are the risks of depositing a fake check?
Depositing a fake check can lead to serious financial consequences. You could face overdraft fees, account freezes, or be required to repay the entire amount if the check bounces. Additionally, your bank may hold you responsible for any funds withdrawn based on the fake check. In some cases, your account could be flagged for suspicious activity, making it harder to rebuild trust with your bank or other financial institutions.