The finance sector offers many payment options to enable secure transactions. One of the widely used payment options by customers is a crossed cheque. In this blog, we will discuss what a crossed cheque is, how it works, its benefits, and why it is an important tool to initiate safe transactions.
What is a Crossed Cheque?
A crossed cheque is a type of cheque where two parallel lines are drawn across the face of the cheque, either vertically or diagonally. This crossing signifies that the cheque can only be deposited directly into a bank account and cannot be encashed over the counter. The payee’s name is essential for processing a cheque. There are two main types of crossed cheques general crossing and special crossing.
How Does a Crossed Cheque Work?
When you receive a crossed cheque, you must deposit it into your bank account. You cannot encash it at the bank counter. To do this, you need to have an active bank account. When you deposit the crossed cheque, the funds will be credited directly to your account.
Types of Crossed Cheques:
General Crossing
In general crossed cheque, two parallel lines are drawn on the cheque, either on the sides or across the entire cheque. This means that the money can be deposited only into the payee’s bank account. However, it can be deposited in any bank as the name of the bank is not specified in such cheques.
Special Crossing
A special crossed cheque has the name of a specific bank between the two parallel lines. This means that the cheque can only be deposited into an account held at that particular bank. It also holds necessary that the payee must hold an account in that particular bank.
Benefits of Crossed Cheques
The main reason to use the provision of a crossed cheque is its low-risk factor. The following points explain how a crossed cheque is a safer means of transaction as compared to an open cheque.
Security
A crossed cheque can only be deposited into the payee’s account. In case this cheque is misplaced, lost, or stolen it cannot be misused. Thus, it is a low-risk means of transaction. It is a great option for making transferring large sums.
Reduced Fraud
Since a crossed cheque can only be deposited in the bank, it cannot be used by unauthorized individuals. It can be tracked by the bank and the tracking information is shared with the payee.
Important Considerations
Endorsement
When you receive a crossed cheque, you need to endorse it on the back with your signature to deposit it into your bank account.
Expired Cheques
Like regular cheques, crossed cheques also have an expiration date. Make sure to deposit them before the date mentioned to avoid any inconvenience.
What is an open cheque?
An open cheque does not have any crossing marks on its face and is generally issued to the bearer. A bearer is a person to whom the cheque is addressed. The bearer holds the authority to redeem the cheque or simply cash it. In case, a cheque is lost or stolen it can be missed. Therefore, it is not a safe means of making a transaction, when compared to a crossed cheque.
Advantages of Open Cheques
Quick and Flexible
The open cheque can be taken directly to the bank and can be enchashed by the cheque holder. There are no formalities or verification processes on the part of the bank issuing the cash. The cheque bearer receives the money from the bank and can access funds immediately in case of emergencies.
No Need for a Bank Account
Individuals who do not hold a bank account can easily use an open cheque to receive money. Unlike a cheque, an open cheque can be redeemed by the holder without having to open a bank account.
No formalities to be fulfilled before the transaction: Open cheques are quite easy to handle. They are not supposed to be deposited into the bank before a transaction is to be made. It is a great option that requires no set procedure or formality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crossed cheques are an important financial tool that provides enhanced security and protection against fraud as compared to open cheques. Open cheques are great for a quick access to funds but are not a safe option as it can be easily misused. Whereas, a crossed cheque by restricting encashment and ensuring direct crediting to the payee’s account, offers security. Utilize this secure payment instrument to safeguard your financial interests and keep your transactions hassle-free.
