How should a check made out to two people be endorsed?

It all depends on how the names are written on the check: If it says "John and Jane Doe," both people have to sign the check before you can cash or deposit it. If it says "John or Jane Doe," either person can sign and handle the check alone. If it’s unclear, like "John, Jane Doe," most banks treat it like an "or," meaning one person can sign. But, to be safe, ask your bank if you're unsure.

Can you deposit a check with two names using a mobile app?

Yep, many banks let you deposit checks with two names through their mobile apps! If it says "or" between the names, only one person needs to sign, and they can deposit it into their account. If it says "and" , both people need to sign the check, and it might have to go into a joint account. Always double-check your bank’s mobile deposit rules, especially if the check is for both people.

Are there special rules for depositing government checks with two names?

Government checks, like tax refunds, can be a little stricter. Usually: Both people need to sign if the check is made out to two names. You’ll probably need to deposit it into a joint account that both people own. You can’t just sign it over to a third person—it’s not allowed for government-issued checks. If you’re not sure what to do, your bank can guide you through the process.

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How to Deposit a Check with Two Names

June 10, 2025

4 min Read

Written by Rudri Patel

Edited by Emily Gadd

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If you’ve been given a check that has been made out to you and another person, you might need to take a few extra steps to deposit it.

Endorsement Types

The important difference to remember is how the names are connected.

Check written as Pay to the Order of Person A and Person B

Requirement: Both parties need to sign the back of the check.
Bank Policies: Many banks require a check addressed to two people to be deposited into a joint account.
Example: A check addressed to “Pay to the Order of Jane and Jack Doe” requires both parties to sign.

Check written as Pay to the Order of Person A or Person B

Requirement: Only one party needs to sign the back of the check.
Bank Policies: The check can typically be deposited into the account of either person, even if it is not a joint account.
Example: A check addressed to Pay to the Order of Jane or Jack Doe,” requires one party to sign the check.

Step-by-Step Guide for Depositing a Check With Two Names

Confirm how the names are written on the check. Names joined by “and” will require both parties to sign the back of the check. Names connected by “or” only need one signature.
Endorse the check correctly. If both signatures are needed, both parties sign the back of the check. If it’s an “or” check, then only one of you needs to sign.
Decide how you want to deposit the check. You can decide to deposit the check online, but for “and” checks, it’s often easier to go to the bank together. It can help avoid any back-and-forth with the bank.
Pick the account. Before heading to the bank, decide whose account the check will go into, especially for checks requiring dual endorsement.
Have proper identification ready. Especially for checks requiring both signatures, the bank may ask for identification from both parties.
Fill out any additional bank forms. Some banks might have extra paperwork for checks made out to two people. Be ready to fill these out.

The Bottom Line

If you’re unsure if your bank’s policies for accepting checks made out to two people, it’s best to contact their customer service.

This will help you avoid any delays in getting your check processed.

River Jean-Noel contributed to the reporting for this article.

FAQ

Depositing a check with two names can sometimes feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether it’s a personal, business, or government-issued check, understanding the rules around endorsements and bank policies can save you time and hassle.

How should a check made out to two people be endorsed?
- It all depends on how the names are written on the check:
  - If it says "John and Jane Doe," both people have to sign the check before you can cash or deposit it.
  - If it says "John or Jane Doe," either person can sign and handle the check alone.
  - If it’s unclear, like "John, Jane Doe," most banks treat it like an "or," meaning one person can sign. But, to be safe, ask your bank if you're unsure.
Can you deposit a check with two names using a mobile app?
- Yep, many banks let you deposit checks with two names through their mobile apps!
  - If it says "or" between the names, only one person needs to sign, and they can deposit it into their account.
  - If it says "and", both people need to sign the check, and it might have to go into a joint account. Always double-check your bank’s mobile deposit rules, especially if the check is for both people.
Are there special rules for depositing government checks with two names?
- Government checks, like tax refunds, can be a little stricter. Usually:
  - Both people need to sign if the check is made out to two names.
  - You’ll probably need to deposit it into a joint account that both people own.
  - You can’t just sign it over to a third person—it’s not allowed for government-issued checks. If you’re not sure what to do, your bank can guide you through the process.