• Money
    • Budget
    • Shop
    • Travel
    • Stories
  • Career
    • Advice
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Freelance
    • Small Business
  • Investing
    • General
    • IRA + 401K
    • Stocks + Bonds
    • Retirement Planning
    • Estate
  • The Basics
    • Student Loans
    • Credit Cards
    • Debt
    • Taxes
    • More
  1. Home
  2. The Basics
  3. Saving
  4. Can Parents Cash Checks Made Out to Minor Children?

Can Parents Cash Checks Made Out to Minor Children?

August 1, 2011
By: Madison Garcia
  • Share
  • Share on Facebook

Parents and legal guardians are able to endorse checks and savings bonds on behalf of minor children. However, they often need to include a signed statement verifying their relationship with the child and their intentions. As an alternative to cashing the check, parents can open up a bank account for their minor child or open a joint bank account.

Super close-up photo of a ballpoint pen, and a bank check
Can Parents Cash Checks Made Out to Minor Children
credit: Mshake/iStock/GettyImages

Endorsing Checks

In most cases, parents can cash checks made out to minor children with the proper documentation. According to the U.S. Department of State, the parent of a minor who provides chief support to the minor may endorse a check. In some cases, the parent or supporter must present a signed statement that contains the age of the child and his or her residence, and asserts that the proceeds will be used for the minor's benefit.

Cashing Bonds

In addition to endorsing personal checks for your minor child, you can also cash his or her bonds. The U.S. Department of the Treasury allows parents to redeem a child's savings bonds if the child is too young to sign or if the parent has legal custody of the child. Parents should include a formal request with the bond certifying that they have legal custody and that the child is too young to make the request him or herself.

Video of the Day

Opening a Bank Account

As an alternative to cashing a check on behalf of a child, you can use it to set up a bank account. Many banks allow minors to set up bank accounts, but require a parent to be a cosigner on the account. If your bank doesn't have an account specifically designed for minors, you can open a joint checking or savings account. Not only will this make it easier to cash the child's checks in the future, it gives him or her an opportunity to save money and learn about banking.

Calling Ahead

If you're attempting to endorse a child's check or bond or open a new account, it's best to call the bank ahead of time so you don't go home frustrated. The U.S. Department of State and Treasury outline specific regulations for these transactions, but exact policies and procedures differ by bank.

Show Comments

Related Articles

Banks That Open Checking Accounts for Kids

Banks That Open Checking Accounts for Kids

The Basics
Saving
By: Lindsey Thompson
Can a Minor Legally Purchase a Car?

Can a Minor Legally Purchase a Car?

The Basics
Cars
By: James Rada, Jr.

PARTNER CONTENT

4 Habits That Helped Me Stop Scraping By

4 Habits That Helped Me Stop Scraping By

Are Social Security Benefits for Children Taxable?

Are Social Security Benefits for Children Taxable?

The Basics
Taxes
By: Gail Sessoms
How to Get a Job When You Are 13 Years Old

How to Get a Job When You Are 13 Years Old

Investing
General
By: Alicia Bodine
Does My 14-Year-Old Have to File a Tax Return?

Does My 14-Year-Old Have to File a Tax Return?

The Basics
Taxes
By: Jeff Franco J.D./M.A./M.B.A.

Get Weekly Savings& Finance Tips.

  • Money
  • Career
  • Investing
  • The Basics
  • About
  • Contact Us
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy
  • Copyright Policy
© 2019 Leaf Group Ltd. Leaf Group Media

Get Weekly Savings
& Finance Tips.

Money Made Easier.

Please enter a valid email.