While cash back cards and digital wallets dominate today's spending landscape, checks haven't gone extinct. In fact, in some situations, they offer unique advantages.
So, before relegating your checkbook to the back of your desk drawer, consider these scenarios where checks might be your unexpected financial allies.
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1. You want to trace a payment
A check is a smart money move if you want to create a paper trail for payments if you need a transaction record or want to trace the payment.
For example, you might want to use a check for things such as the down payment for a home, a deposit in a retirement account or investment fund, or to confirm you paid your taxes.
Own a car? Here's 7 warning signs you're paying too much for car insurance. 2. You're sending a payment through the mail
Most experts recommend against sending cash through the mail. A check is a much better option.
A check is more secure; you can stop payment if it's intercepted before getting to your recipient.
3. You're hiring a contractor or landscaper
Contractors, landscapers, and other service providers usually prefer receiving a check or cash. Some self-employed folks might not even have the option to accept credit card payments.
From your perspective, using a check to pay for these services gives you a paper trail in case of any dispute.
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4. You're making large purchases
When you make a down payment on a car or house, there's little chance you'll be allowed to pay in cash or use a credit card. A check remains the preferred method of payment.
Just note that in many cases, you might need to get a cashier's check from your bank for these payments rather than writing a personal check.
5. You want some time before money is taken from your account
Personal checks take time to clear. So, a check can be the way to go if you need a day or two of grace before the money disappears from your account.
This is particularly true if you are mailing a payment, where it will likely take several days or more before the money disappears from your account.
6. Your recipient needs money, but not right away
If a family member or friend needs money — but not right away — you can write a check now, and they can hold it for weeks or even months before cashing it at their convenience.
Just be aware that some banks might be wary of cashing a check that’s more than six months old.
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If you're nervous that your credit card information or identity will be stolen and used for crooked purposes, you might prefer paying with a check.
It's not always easy to keep your private information private, especially when a third party, such as a retailer, is hacked and your credit card information suddenly becomes available to shady folks.
8. You don’t want to pay credit card fees
Some businesses or organizations will take your credit card payments for a transaction but pass the credit card fee on to you.
Instead, you can write a check to pay for things like rent or taxes to avoid the additional fee.
9. You want to save a small business from paying credit card fees
Businesses have to pay processing fees for each credit card transaction. That is why some small businesses don’t even accept credit cards.
If you believe in helping out small businesses, paying with a check might help your favorite local business by allowing it to avoid paying a transaction fee on a credit card purchase.
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Bottom line
From building trust with small businesses to managing finances with a paper trail, checks remain relevant tools for the savvy spender.
So, compare the top checking accounts and reacquaint yourself with the humble checkbook. You might be surprised at how it can complement your modern financial toolkit.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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