So, it might seem like checks are a thing of the past.
After all, if the US government has already switched to direct deposits for Social Security transactions, the rest of the country can’t be far behind, right?
What Is A Two-Party Check?
Two-party checks are checks made out to two payees. These can be particularly common as wedding presents, or as a pay-out from the IRS when filing jointly.
A small word makes a huge difference on a two-party check.
The check could either be made out to “Person A or Person B” or “Person A and Person B.”
If the check says ‘or,’ either person will be able to cash the check without the other person present.
If the check says ‘and’ it can be much more complicated.
The law requires that everyone on the check endorses it. Sometimes this even means that both people need to be present for the deposit.
What’s more, some banks require that two-party checks are deposited into a joint account, with the names on the check matching the names on the account.
How To Cash A Two-Party Check
If you’re cashing a two-party check with an ‘or’ between the parties, either person can endorse the check and cash it in the same way that you would any other check.
From your local casino to the supermarket, there are plenty of places that will cash this type of check for you.
But, if you’re cashing a two-party check with an ‘and’ between the parties, you may need to go directly to your bank branch, as many casinos avoid cashing these checks.
Depending on where you bank, both people may also need to be present and show ID. At some banks, the two parties will need to have a joint account for the funds to be deposited.
We strongly advise against signing the check and depositing it at an ATM as this may mean that you’ll need to get the check reissued, costing you even more time.
Instead, speak to a bank teller or go to the casino together and think of it as a fun excursion with your fellow check recipient.
Just be sure to always ring the casino first to check if they offer this service, then go enjoy your cash.
Who knows, if you get lucky you could come out with a lot more than you went in with!
BookiesWoman thinking about homeless charity and animal charity
If you haven’t already, it’s better to begin planning with a clear picture of what and who you want to raise funds for, rather than a vague idea.
If you can visualize your end goal it’ll motivate you when you hit the hard work and headaches.
It’s also worth thinking about your target audience and what is most likely to encourage people to attend and donate — a local, national, international, or global issue?
You need to make sure you research the appropriate state or local charitable gambling laws and apply them throughout the planning stages, as well as when actioning any requirements before or on the day.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to gambling-related fundraising, as there are different laws applied to everything from games and raffles, through to bingo and auctions.
And every state has its own rules and laws.
And every state has its own rules and laws.
When you’re trying to raise money for a cause or organization, the last thing you want to do is land yourself, the charity or non-profit, donors and attendees in hot water.
Failing to follow the rules can lead to criminal penalties.
Whether you will need gambling and alcohol licenses.
If different types of gambling and games are legal in your state or require multiple/different licenses.
Age restrictions of attendees and participants. Check out our guide on legal US gambling ages by state.
Procedures around handling money and the value of prizes.
Whether proceeds must be kept in any special bank accounts.
The timeframe between fundraising and transferring funds to the charity or non-profit.
Who you can hire to work at the event.