Friday, December 12, 2008

Checking Mechanics - Usage of Checks

By Bob Booner

Many think they need to buy their checks from the bank when cheap personal checks are readily available online. The various parties of a check do not care where you buy the check. The drawer or maker of the check, to the depositor or the financial institution that acts as the drawee is oblivious to where you buy your checks.

When you buy your checks online and write a check you are considered a drawer of the check. Another term that means the same is that you "cut a check."

For checking to work you need at least one endorsee. Usually this is the bank that services the payee's account. It could even be a third party.

A payee that accepts a check will typically deposit it in an account at the payee's bank, and have the bank process the check. Sometime, especially if the payee want guarantee that they funds are good will take the check to a branch of the drawee bank, and cash the check there.

With a little investigation, you should be able to find a bank with free checking accounts. It's a good way to save money in this tight economy but it is important to make sure your accounts balance well an are not overdrawn.

If you've experienced chronic bounced check problems in the past, you may think of signing up for overdraft protection. This allows you to write as many checks as you like without the worry of bounced check fees.

It's worth to note that he IRS encourages taxpayers to choose direct deposit when they file their return because it puts an end to lost, stolen or undeliverable checks. This way taxpayers can receive refunds directly into personal checking or savings accounts. Choosing direct deposit status is available for filers of both paper and electronic returns.

When income tax season rolls around, you can have your refund sent to your IRA or investment accounts or to your bank or checking account. Be wary of any kind of instant refund since it could carry high-interest rate and fees since it is a loan. - 16928

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