Can You Deposit a Ripped Check? All That You Should Know

It may happen that you or your child accidentally ripped your check, putting you into confusion about whether it can be used again. Can you deposit a ripped check? Are there any ways to deposit the check? The answers to your questions are provided in this blog. We will help you find out the real solution to your problem.

Is it possible for you to deposit a ripped check?

If your check is not severely damaged, you should be able to cash it. However, the final decision rests with your bank and the check’s physical condition. 

There’s a good chance the check can’t be cashed if the account and routing numbers are illegible. In addition, certain financial institutions will not accept a damaged check for electronic deposit. Before going into a bank to cash it, know their policies. 

Also read: How to Check My Credit Score?

What are the best ways to deposit a ripped check?

Normally, when you find that the check got damaged, most people try to tape or glue it. Doing this reduces the chances of depositing the check as the scanners might fail to prove the check’s validity. Once you identify that your check got damaged, mostly the bank from where you had drawn the check might be willing to accept it. 

The best ways you can adopt are: 

Speak to a bank teller

You should hand the check to a teller and gently explain the situation. If the check is damaged, they may still cash it for you, but you should expect to pay a higher fee for the service. 

Use an ATM

If a teller refuses to accept your ripped check, you might be able to deposit it using an ATM. Remember that many banks still physically process checks and utilize ATMs as a delivery method to cut down on customer wait times. 

Use the mobile deposit option

You can use the mobile deposit option available in the bank’s mobile app if you do not want human interaction. You’ll need to take a picture of the back and front of the check using your phone’s camera after signing the back of the check and inputting the amount you’d like to deposit.  

Go to a retailer

Cashing the check at a retailer may be an option if you don’t have a bank account or if a branch is not conveniently located. Before heading out to the retailer, visit the website to learn about applicable restrictions or additional costs. 

To cash a personal check, you should verify that the amount is below the cashing limit. 

When will a bank reject a ripped check?

Different banks have different policies, and due to these varying policies, some banks may accept your check while others won’t. 

The primary things that should not go missing in a ripped check are: 

• Your account number 
• Amount 
• Date 
• Signature 
• Routing number 
• Payer and payee name 
• Check number 

What to do if you cannot cash your check?

If the bank that issued the check refuses to cash it for you, you might try depositing it at the personal bank. If you want to deposit it, you should probably go to the branch instead of using the mobile deposit feature. 

It can happen that the personal bank also refuses to deposit the check. In that case, what you can do is request a new check.  

A damaged check may prevent a bank from validating it. In that scenario, you should contact the bank or organization that issued the check and request a replacement check. 

It might be difficult to admit that you failed to handle the check properly, but telling the truth is the only way to get a replacement.  

Always keep in mind that it is common practice for businesses to reissue checks that have been lost, stolen, or otherwise compromised. In a short amount of time, you will obtain the money you are entitled to after they simply cancel the original check and issue a new one.  

Bottom line

It may be annoying to deal with a damaged check, but there are still ways to cash your ripped check. You can quickly and easily deposit your torn check using one of the methods we described above. However, it’s time to request a new check if crucial details are missing or unreadable, including routing numbers or bank information. Contact the bank or institution that issued the check to obtain a replacement check. 

Way.com, the auto super app will find you the best auto refinance, gas discounts, EV charging near you, auto insurance, and more. We’ll also help you find and book the best parking and car washes near you. 

You can now save up to $3000/year and enjoy the best deals with additional cashback. 

Our app offers the most extensive coverage on car services, so you can always find what you need.  

Get ready to save big and own a car in smarter way using the Way App!