There are two steps on how to write a check for a wedding correctly. This article will guide you in addressing the couple and even discuss the amount you should write for a wedding check.
We also recommend reading what is a wishing well as the wedding you’re attending might have one. It is usually where you’ll put your monetary gifts to the couple.
How To Correctly Write A Check To Newlyweds
Step 1. Use the couple’s pre-married names
One of the trickiest parts of writing a check for a wedding is knowing the names you’ll put on it. Guests often wonder if you’ll write the couple’s pre-married names.
However, remember that changing the name can take time, or the couple might use the check for honeymoon expenses. For these reasons, it’s better to use the couple’s maiden names for their convenience at the bank.
You must also always use the word “or” instead of “and” for the conjunction of the couple’s names. This way, they can deposit the check individually if needed, or even if you misspelled one name, they could still cash their check.
Step 2. Make sure everything is correct on the check
After writing the wedding check, make sure that everything is correct. It’s also better to ask anyone close to the couple beforehand instead of assuming their names.
For example, not all brides will take their groom’s last name. You also don’t want to write hyphenated last names if you don’t know the order.
If the names are too complicated, perhaps it’s better to make the wedding check out to someone the couple trusts. Perhaps they enlisted someone to collect their monetary gifts.
Additional tips when writing a check for a wedding:
- Make sure your address is valid for your check
- Date the check correctly
- Verify if you have enough funds for the wedding check
- Use black ink and write legibly
- Determine how you want to endorse the check, whether individually or as a pair
- Make sure all the fields needed are filled out
- Record the check for your personal tracking of expenditures
When in doubt, check for a cash registry
Perhaps the couple has a cash registry that you can consider instead of writing a check. You’ll avoid the stress of not knowing what to write at the check since cash registries are already linked to the couple’s bank account.
Check the couple’s wedding website, where they might include a cash gifting option. Most couples nowadays have a cash registry rather than collecting cash and checks.
How Do You Write A Check Out To A Married Couple?
If the married couple already has the same surname, you can address them as “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” instead of repeating the last name for each couple. You’ll address the married couple this way on the “Payable To” line, but only if they have the same last names.
Or vs and when writing a wedding check
Some couples still keep their individual last names, so you might need to enter both of their full names even if they’re married. So for newlyweds, “or” is the preferred conjunction between the couple’s respective names so either of them can cash or deposit the check.
Using “and” on the other hand, means both individuals must sign the check. This can be inconvenient because neither the bride nor groom can cash or deposit the check without their spouse’s consent.
How Much Should You Pay For A Wedding Check?
The general rule is don’t give a check less than $50. However, your personal finances, cultural norms, and closeness to the couple will also affect the amount you can provide.
The average cost of monetary gifts given to weddings in the US range from $75 to $200, where $160 is the norm. This is because it is expected to give something the same value as what the wedding hosts spent for each guest.
Is It Better To Give Cash Or Write A Check For A Wedding Gift?
Choosing between giving cash or writing a check for a wedding depends on what you think is more convenient. For example, cash would be easier for the couple since they won’t need to visit the bank with a check.
On the other hand, some guests prefer giving a check for security reasons as it’s unlikely to be stolen. But when in doubt, you can ask the couple or someone close to them as weddings vary in traditions.
When Should You Cash Your Wedding Check?
You can deposit your wedding check within a few weeks after your wedding. This is what most couples do if they’re using the money to fund their honeymoon.
More so, waiting too long before cashing the check might cause the person’s account not to have enough funds for it when you cash it.
Will you need financial assistance for your wedding? Read how to ask parents for money for weddings.
Conclusion
And that’s it! We found out how to write a check for a wedding by ensuring that all the necessary fields are filled, we wrote clearly, and address the couple properly.
It’s better to use “or” when combining the couple’s names and using their respective maiden names. This will help them deposit the check even if their names are still not changed.