
Cashier's checks are a type of negotiable instrument that can be a convenient way to make large purchases or pay bills. However, they can be tricky to get your money back from if things don't go as planned.
The issuer of the cashier's check is responsible for ensuring that the check is valid and that the funds are available when the check is cashed. This means that if the issuer doesn't have enough money in their account to cover the check, the check will likely be returned to you.
You can try to get your money back from a cashier's check by contacting the issuer and asking them to refund the amount. If the issuer is unwilling or unable to refund the money, you may need to contact the bank or financial institution that issued the check.
Getting Money Back
You can usually get your money back for a cashier's check as long as you follow your bank's procedures.
It can take a few months in the case of a lost or stolen check.
You'll need to follow your bank's procedures to initiate the process, which may involve filling out forms or contacting their customer service.
The time it takes to get your money back can vary depending on the circumstances, but in general, it's a few months.
Validity and Time Constraints
A cashier's check can be valid for an indefinite period as long as the bank is still operating, but it's best to check for an expiration date on the check and confirm with the bank.
The timeframe for canceling a cashier's check is usually around 90 days, after which the process can become more complicated.
You should check the check for an expiration date and confirm with the bank to ensure the check remains valid.
Time Constraints
Time constraints can be a challenge when dealing with cashier's checks. Banks often have a limited timeframe for canceling a cashier's check, usually around 90 days.

If you don't act within this window, the cancellation process can become more complicated. Missing the deadline altogether may prevent you from canceling the check at all.
You should check the check for an expiration date, as it may be specific or indefinite. The bank can provide guidance on how long the check is valid for.
After a period of three years, a cashier's check can become unclaimed property, as noted by the California State Controller.
Potential Issues When
Potential issues arise when dealing with time constraints, such as the pressure to meet deadlines. This can lead to hasty decision-making and a lack of thorough evaluation, as seen in the case of the rush to launch a new product without adequate testing.
The validity of data can be compromised if it's collected within a short time frame, resulting in incomplete or inaccurate information. For instance, a survey conducted over a weekend may not capture the full range of opinions.

Time constraints can also lead to a narrow focus, causing important details to be overlooked. In the example of the project manager who prioritized tasks based on urgency, some critical aspects of the project were neglected.
In situations where time is limited, it's essential to prioritize tasks effectively to ensure that all necessary steps are taken. However, as demonstrated by the scenario where the team was forced to cut corners to meet the deadline, this can sometimes lead to subpar results.
What If You Don't Know the Issuing Bank?
If you don't know the issuing bank, you'll need to get in touch with the person or entity who gave you the check and find out which bank they used to issue the cashier's check.
You may not have the issuing bank's contact information, but you can usually find it on the cashier's check itself or on the bank's website.
It's essential to gather as much information as possible about the transaction, including the date the cashier's check was issued, the amount of the check, and the name of the person or entity that received the check.

If you have any receipts or other documentation related to the transaction, be sure to have them on hand when you contact the bank.
You'll need to explain to the bank that your cashier's check has been lost and that you need a replacement, and they may ask you to provide additional information to verify your identity and the transaction.
The bank will likely need you to provide documentation or information to verify the transaction, so be prepared to provide this information.
Lost or Stolen Checks
If you're a victim of a cashier's check scam or the check was simply lost, you can try to recover the funds. You'll need to report the incident to law enforcement and gather important check information, such as the account number used to purchase the check, check number, check date, amount of the check, and the payee's name and contact details.
To recover the funds, you'll need to fill out a declaration of loss form with the issuing bank, which may require multiple signatures and notarization along with a police report copy. You may also need to obtain an indemnity bond to cover the bank's potential loss. This can involve paying a percentage of the check amount.
It can take up to 90 days to get a replacement check or refund, even if you have an indemnity bond. To prevent this from happening in the future, it's a good idea to keep track of your cashier's checks, use a secure delivery method, and consider electronic payment options.
Recovering a Stolen Item
Recovering a stolen item can be a lengthy and frustrating process, but there are steps you can take to try and get your money back.
Reporting the theft to law enforcement is a crucial step in the process. The OCC recommends filing a police report about check fraud to have evidence to back up your claim with your bank.
Gathering important check information is also essential. You'll need to find your cashier's check receipt, which should include details such as the account number used to purchase the check, check number, check date, amount of the check, and the payee's name and contact details.
Filling out documentation with the issuing bank is the next step. You'll need to complete a declaration of loss form, which may require multiple signatures and notarization, as well as a copy of your police report.
In some cases, you may need to obtain an indemnity bond to cover the bank's risk of paying out twice for the check. This involves finding an insurance company to issue a bond for the exact amount of the check, which may require paying a percentage of the check amount.
The entire process can take up to 90 days before you receive a replacement check or refund, even if you have an indemnity bond.
What to Do If Your Check is Lost?
If your check is lost, the first step is to gather all relevant information, including your cashier's check receipt and other necessary details. This will help you complete the declaration of loss form accurately.
You'll need to reach out to your bank to explain the issue and complete the declaration of loss form. This form typically asks for information about you, the payee, and the check itself, as well as an explanation of why the check is lost.
Obtaining an indemnity bond may be required by your bank to ensure they're not paying out twice for the check. This involves paying a percentage of the check amount to an insurance company.
The entire process can take up to 90 days, during which time the bank may still pay the check to whoever presents it. The bank may notice if the check was stolen, assuming you've alerted them to the fact that the check is missing.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Have your cashier's check receipt and other necessary information handy.
- Reach out to your bank to explain the issue and complete the declaration of loss form.
- Obtain an indemnity bond if your bank requires it.
- Wait for up to 90 days to get a replacement cashier's check or refund to your bank account.
Alternatives and Solutions
If you're unable to cancel a cashier's check, don't worry, there are alternatives to consider. You can ask for a replacement check, but the bank's willingness to issue one depends on the circumstances and the amount of the check.
The bank might reissue the check if you sign an indemnity agreement, which means you'll have to reimburse the bank if the original check is presented and paid. This is more likely to happen if the dollar amount is small.
You can also ask the bank what happens if you need to cancel the check after it's been drawn, so you're not surprised by their policy. If the bank is unwilling to reissue the check, you might need to consider other options, such as negotiating with the payee or seeking a refund from the merchant.
Here are some possible outcomes when asking for a replacement check:
Alternatives to a Cashier's Check
If you're facing difficulties with a cashier's check, you're not alone. Canceling a cashier's check can be a challenge, but there are alternatives to consider.
One alternative is to use a money order, which can be cancelled and refunded if it's lost, stolen, or not used. This way, you can avoid the hassle of trying to cancel a cashier's check.
You can also use electronic payment methods, such as online banking or mobile payments, which can be cancelled or reversed if needed. This option is often faster and more convenient than dealing with a cashier's check.
If you're in a situation where you need to pay someone, but a cashier's check isn't feasible, consider using a personal check instead.
Get a New Faster
If you need a new cashier's check faster than 90 days, you'll need to purchase a Lost Instrument Surety Bond. This bond serves as insurance for the bank, but you'll be responsible for paying the premium, which can range from 1% to 5% of the check amount based on your credit and financial strength.
For example, if you have excellent credit, you might get a 1% rate, so a $10,000 bond would cost you $100. If you have poor credit, you might get a 5% rate, and that same $10,000 bond will cost you $500.

The surety bond is a way for you to guarantee the bank that it won't take a loss for having written a second cashier's check in the event that both are cashed or deposited. If the bank is presented with a claim, the surety will make payment to the bank, and you'll be responsible for repaying the amount.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- You purchase a Lost Instrument Surety Bond for the amount of the cashier's check.
- The bond premium is based on your credit and financial strength.
- If the bank is presented with a claim, the surety will make payment to the bank.
- You'll be responsible for repaying the amount to the surety.
Keep in mind that if you're unable to repay the amount, you could be in legal trouble. It's essential to work with a surety bond broker that has various sureties to work with, so you have the best options for your particular circumstance.
Bank Policies
Some banks may require a waiting period before processing the cancellation of a cashier's check.
Each bank has its own procedures for canceling a cashier's check, and fees may apply for cancellation services.
You might be surprised to learn that some banks issue a replacement check rather than a refund for a canceled cashier's check.
Banks may have different rules for canceling cashier's checks, so it's essential to check with the issuing bank for their specific policies.
It's not uncommon for banks to require additional documentation or information to verify your identity and the transaction when canceling a cashier's check.
You can usually find the contact information for the bank on the cashier's check itself or on the bank's website.
Fees may apply for cancellation services, so be sure to ask about any potential costs when canceling a cashier's check.
It's a good idea to follow up with the bank regularly to ensure that your request for a replacement check is being processed.
A fresh viewpoint: When Can You Get a Heloc
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of canceling a cashier's check can be a significant added expense. Your bank might charge a stop payment fee that runs between $20 and $35.
Wells Fargo is an exception, as they don't charge for stop payment requests. This can save you money, especially if you're dealing with a lost or stolen check.
If your bank does charge for a stop payment, you'll also have to consider the cost of replacing the cashier's check. Bank of America, for example, charges $15, unless you're part of their Preferred Rewards program.
Broaden your view: How to Get Cashier's Check for Mortgage Payment
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I get a cashier's check and don't use it?
If you don't use a cashier's check, you can usually have the cash returned to your bank account by contacting your bank for guidance. No declaration of loss is required in this case.
What happens if you change your mind on a cashier's check?
If you change your mind on a cashier's check, you can return it to your bank to get the money back into your account. Contact your bank for instructions on how to proceed.
Sources
- https://www.sapling.com/7557760/cancel-cashiers-check
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/lost-or-stolen-cashier-s-check-no-longer-need-it-315028
- https://www.suretybondsdirect.com/blog/lost-cashiers-check
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/can-you-cancel-cashiers-check-everything-need-know-bluenotary-rdvxc
- https://fastercapital.com/content/Cashier-s-Check-Reimbursement--What-to-Do-If-It-s-Lost.html
Featured Images: pexels.com