Chase's policy on third-party checks
Chase does not accept third-party checks for deposit through most channels. A third-party check is one made out to someone other than you — for example, a check written to your spouse that they sign over to you, or a paycheck made out to your business partner that they endorse to you. Chase stopped accepting these checks years ago and has not reversed the policy.
The restriction applies whether you deposit in person at a branch, through a mobile app, or at an ATM. If you try to deposit a third-party check, Chase will reject it. The check will be returned to the person who deposited it, not to the original payee.
This policy exists because third-party checks carry higher fraud risk. The bank cannot easily verify that the original payee authorized the endorsement, and disputes over forged signatures or unauthorized transfers are expensive to resolve. Rather than manage that risk, Chase simply does not process them.
Key Takeaways
- Chase will not deposit a check made out to someone else, even if that person signs it over to you.
- The restriction covers all deposit methods: branch deposits, mobile deposits, and ATM deposits.
- If you receive a check made out to another person, that person must deposit it into their own account first, then transfer the money to you.
- Some smaller banks and credit unions still accept third-party checks, so moving the account is an option if you receive them regularly.
- A personal check written directly to you has no restrictions at Chase, regardless of the amount.
What happens when you try to deposit a third-party check at Chase
If you attempt a mobile deposit of a third-party check through the Chase app, the system will reject it before it reaches the bank. The app will display an error message stating that the check cannot be processed because it is not made out to you. The check image is not submitted, and no hold is placed on your account.
If you try to deposit a third-party check at an ATM, the machine will reject the check physically. It will not be scanned or held. You will need to retrieve it from the ATM slot.
If you walk into a Chase branch and hand a teller a third-party check, the teller will refuse it and explain the policy. They cannot override this rule, even for long-time customers or large amounts. The check goes back to you, not to the original payee.
The legal reason: endorsement and liability
Banks are liable if they cash a forged check or process one without proper authorization. When a check is third-party, the bank has to trust two endorsements instead of one: the original payee's signature and yours. If either signature is forged, the bank may have to cover the loss.
Federal banking regulations do not prohibit third-party checks outright, but they allow banks to refuse them. Chase decided the risk was not worth the processing cost and chose a blanket no-policy rather than evaluating each check individually.
This is different from a two-party check, which is made out to two people (like "John Smith and Jane Smith"). Chase will deposit two-party checks if both payees are present or if one payee signs it over to the other — though practices vary by branch.
What to do if you receive a check made out to someone else
The person whose name is on the check must deposit it into their own bank account first. Once the check clears and the money is in their account, they can transfer the funds to you by any method: ACH transfer, wire, Venmo, or a check written directly to you.
This adds a delay — typically one to three business days for the check to clear — but it is the only way to move the money through Chase. If the original payee banks elsewhere, they can deposit it there and then send you the money.
If the original payee is unwilling or unable to deposit the check, you have no recourse through Chase. You would need to contact the check writer and ask them to issue a new check made out to you instead.
Banks that still accept third-party checks
Some regional banks and credit unions have not adopted Chase's policy and will still process third-party checks. These institutions typically require the original payee to be present at the time of deposit, or they may require a notarized endorsement for larger amounts.
If you receive third-party checks regularly — for example, as a business that receives payments made out to a partner — switching to a bank with a more flexible policy may be worth considering. Call ahead to confirm the bank's current policy, because policies change and vary by branch.
Online banks generally follow Chase's lead and do not accept third-party checks, since they have no physical branch to verify identity in person.
Distinguishing third-party checks from similar situations
A check made out to "John Smith or Jane Smith" (with "or" between the names) is not a third-party check. Either person can deposit it alone. Chase will process it.
A check made out to "John Smith and Jane Smith" (with "and" between the names) requires both people to sign it, or one person to sign and the other to endorse it. Chase's handling of these checks varies by branch, so call ahead if you have one.
A check made out to a business name (like "Acme LLC") is not a third-party check if you are an authorized signer on the business account. You can deposit it into the business account using your personal ID.
A postdated check — one dated in the future — is not rejected by Chase for that reason alone. Chase may hold it until the date passes, but the policy on third-party endorsement still applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit a check made out to my spouse if they sign it?
No. Even with a signature or endorsement from your spouse, Chase will not process it. The check must be deposited into your spouse's account first, then the money can be transferred to you. This applies even if you are married and have joint accounts.
What if I have a power of attorney for the check writer?
A power of attorney does not override Chase's third-party check policy. The bank does not accept third-party checks under any circumstance, regardless of legal authority. The original payee must deposit the check themselves.
Can a Chase teller make an exception for a large check?
No. Tellers have no authority to waive this policy. It is a blanket rule that applies to all checks, all amounts, and all customers. The answer will be the same whether the check is for $50 or $5,000.
Will Chase accept a third-party check if I notarize the endorsement?
No. A notarized signature does not change Chase's policy. The bank does not process third-party checks regardless of how the endorsement is documented or verified. Notarization may help at other banks, but not at Chase.
What if the check is from a government agency or employer?
Chase treats all third-party checks the same way, regardless of the source. A government check, tax refund, or paycheck made out to someone else will be rejected if you try to deposit it. The original payee must deposit it first.