What Can I Do with Old Checks?

Old checks can often pile up in your home, especially if you no longer use checks as a method of payment. This article will discuss how to handle and reuse old checks, along with tips for properly disposing of them when no longer needed.

Safeguarding Information Security

One of the primary reasons to retire old checks is to enhance your personal information security. Financial documents can contain sensitive details that you may want to protect, particularly if you no longer need them.

Shredding and Disposing of Unnecessary Checks: If your checks or their carbon copies no longer serve any purpose, it's important to securely dispose of them. For old checks from closed bank accounts or cancelled checks, ensure you use a cross-cut shredder to destroy any potentially identifiable information. After thoroughly shreds the document, the shredded pieces can be thrown away in the regular trash.

Tips for Retaining Digital Copies of Checks

Given the digital age, it's becoming less common to use traditional checks, and many banks now offer online and mobile banking features that allow you to store and manage check information electronically. Here are some tips on handling old checks and their digital copies:

Carbon Copies and Digital Access: Most carbon copies of checks do not contain sensitive information that could be misused. Only the payee's name is printed, and even this could be removed if the check was properly shredded. For those who still retain paper copies, checks can often be accessed online for a set period. My bank provides access to check images for up to ten years, allowing for a secure and organized record of transactions.

What About Non-CTS Checks?

Some banks still use non-Clearing Through System (non-CTS) checks, which may have a unique status and requirements for acceptance. It's important to inquire if your branch accepts these or if they need to be returned by a specific day each week. These checks can be used for transactions as long as they are within their valid period. If you choose not to use them, you can return them to the bank or dispose of them yourself. Always ensure that such documents do not fall into the wrong hands, as they could be misused.

Conclusion

Handling old checks responsibly is crucial for maintaining financial security and organizing your personal documents. Whether you choose to discard them, shred them, or retain digital copies, treating old checks with care will help protect both your privacy and your peace of mind. By following these guidelines, you can safely manage and dispose of your old checks.