A man looking for a lost cashier's check

What Happens if You Lose a Cashier's Check?

Published on: October 5, 2023

Losing a cashier's check can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when it involves a substantial amount of money. Whether you misplaced it during a move, had it stolen, or simply can't seem to locate it, the good news is that you can take steps to address the situation. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of handling a lost cashier's check, from confirming the loss to obtaining a replacement.

Key Takeaways:

Cashier's checks provide an ironclad guarantee of funds, making them a secure payment method for significant transactions.
A structured approach is essential When faced with a lost cashier's check. This includes confirming the loss, recording all relevant details, contacting your bank immediately, and requesting a stop payment on the lost check. Completing a Declaration of Loss Form accurately is a critical step.
If you require the funds from the lost cashier's check before the standard 90-day processing period, communicate your situation with your bank to see what other available options.
Unlike personal checks, you cannot stop payment on a cashier's check through your bank account.

What Is a Cashier's Check?

A cashier's check comes with a guarantee of funds from an issuing bank that takes full responsibility for the payment, assuring the recipient that the check will be honored without fail. This assurance stems from the fact that the bank first collects the specified amount from the purchaser and then issues the cashier's check, effectively earmarking those funds in their possession for the payee.

Due to this ironclad guarantee, cashier's checks are widely considered one of the most secure methods of payment available in the financial world. When you receive a cashier's check, you can be confident that the funds are legitimate and readily available, making it a preferred choice for transactions where trust and reliability are paramount.

How To Handle a Lost Cashier's Check

Steps to handle a lost cashier's check

To handle a lost cashier's check, you'll need to contact your bank, request a stop payment, fill out a Declaration of Loss Form, wait for the bank's investigation, and regain the replacement check.

What To Do If You Lose a Cashier's Check

Losing a cashier's check can happen to anyone, and it's important not to panic. Follow these steps to navigate the process of handling a lost cashier's check efficiently and effectively.

Step 1: Confirm the Loss

The first step is to confirm that the cashier's check is indeed lost. Double-check your home, your personal belongings, and any place where you might have stored the check. Sometimes, it's hiding in plain sight, and a thorough search can save you a lot of trouble.

Step 2: Record All Relevant Information

Once you are certain the cashier's check is lost, it's crucial to gather all relevant information related to the check. This includes the check's exact amount, the payee's name, the check number, and the date it was issued.

Step 3: Contact Your Bank Immediately

Time is of the essence when dealing with a lost cashier's check. Reach out to your bank or the financial institution that issued the check as soon as possible. Most banks have a specific department or customer service line for cashier's checks and lost items.

Step 4: Request a Stop Payment

Inform your bank about the lost cashier's check and request a stop payment on it. This action will prevent anyone from cashing the check if they happen to find it. Be prepared to provide the bank with all the details you gathered in step 2.

Step 5: Obtain a Declaration of Loss Form

Your bank will typically require you to complete a Declaration of Loss Form as part of the process to handle a lost cashier's check. This form serves as an official and legal document that reports the loss of the cashier's check to the bank. It plays a critical role in initiating the necessary procedures to stop payment on the lost check and, ultimately, to either issue a replacement cashier's check or reimburse you for the lost funds.

How do I get a Declaration of Loss Form? You can usually obtain the Declaration of Loss Form through your bank's official channels, such as their website, or by visiting a branch in person. It's important to note that this form will request specific information related to the lost cashier's check (here is a sample Declaration of Loss form from Synchrony)

Completing the Declaration of Loss Form accurately and thoroughly is crucial, as any discrepancies or errors in the information you provide could potentially delay the processing of your request. Therefore, take your time to fill out the form carefully and ensure that all the details you provide align with the information associated with the lost cashier's check.

Step 6: Fill Out the Declaration of Loss Form

Carefully fill out the Declaration of Loss Form, providing all the necessary information about the lost cashier's check. Be accurate and thorough in your responses, as any discrepancies could cause delays in the process.

Besides your personal information and banking information, a Declaration of Loss Form will likely include:

Details of the Lost Cashier's Check. The exact amount of the cashier's check, the check number (if available), the date the check was issued, and the payee's name (the person or entity to whom the check was made payable).
Circumstances of Loss. A description of how and where the cashier's check was lost or what led to its disappearance. Include any relevant details that may help in the investigation.

Step 7: Submit the Completed Form

Once the Declaration of Loss Form is filled out, return it to your bank as instructed. You may need to submit it in person, by mail, or electronically, depending on your bank's policies.

Step 8: Wait for the Processing Period

After you've submitted the Declaration of Loss Form, your bank will typically initiate an investigation to confirm the loss and ensure that no one has cashed the check. This process may take several weeks, so patience is key.

Step 9: Pay Any Associated Fees

Be aware that banks often charge a fee for processing a stop payment on a cashier's check. The fee amount can vary depending on the bank's policies and the amount of the lost check. Check with your bank to understand the fee structure.

Step 10: Receive a New Cashier’s Check or Reimbursement

Once the investigation is complete, your bank will either issue a new cashier's check or reimburse you for the lost one, minus any applicable fees. You can then proceed with your original transaction.

Step 11: Learn from the Experience

Lastly, take this experience as an opportunity to be more vigilant with important financial documents and transactions in the future. It's always a good idea to keep records and receipts in an organized manner to avoid such mishaps.

Need the Check Payment Before 90 Days Are Up?

Sometimes, waiting for the full 90-day processing period might not be an option, especially if you urgently require the funds from the lost cashier's check. In such situations, it's crucial to communicate your specific circumstances directly with your bank.

Banks are aware that unexpected financial needs can arise, and they may have mechanisms in place to expedite the process or provide temporary solutions. When discussing your situation with your bank, inquire about any available options for expediting the resolution or accessing the funds more quickly.

These options might include:

Expedited Processing. Some banks can prioritize the investigation process for lost cashier's checks if there is a genuine need for urgency. They may work to expedite the resolution to ensure you receive the funds as soon as possible.
Temporary Credit. In certain cases, banks may offer to provide you with a temporary credit or advance while the investigation is ongoing. This can help you access the funds you need without waiting for the entire processing period.
Purchase an indemnity bond. If the lost cashier's check is presented and endorsed, you may be required to purchase an indemnity bond. This safeguards the bank from potential losses. In the event that both the lost and reissued checks are cashed, the bank can seek reimbursement from the surety company. You would then need to repay the surety company. Indemnity bonds are typically available through insurance companies, though not all insurers offer them.

Remember that the availability of these options and their specific terms may vary from one bank to another.

Can You Cancel or Stop Payment on a Cashier's Check?

Unfortunately, no, you cannot stop payment on a cashier's check. Unlike personal checks, which you can stop payment on through your own bank account, cashier's checks require the involvement of the issuing bank. Attempting to cancel or stop payment on a cashier's check without going through the proper channels is not recommended and may result in legal consequences.