Can I instantly deposit a government check addressed to someone else if it has been endorsed to me?

[Mommy2three]

My fiancé doesn’t have a bank account and just received a $1,000 child tax credit check from the United States Treasury. He already signed it over to me but my bank said they couldn’t cash it. Can I deposit it through PayPal app even though it’s addressed to him but endorsed to me?

[sharpiemarker]

@Mommy2three 

Generally, government checks are meant to be deposited by the person whose name is on the check that matches the bank account. You can try it to deposit it on the PayPal app BUT do not write “VOID” on your check until you are prompted to do so, after you receive confirmation that your check was approved. If your check is approved, you’ll be prompted to write “VOID” across the front of your check and submit another photo showing it has been voided. 

Here’s explanation on certain checks that can be rejected:

I’m using the Cash a Check service in the PayPal app and my check wasn’t approved. Why?

If your check is rejected, you may try cashing it at Walmart and add up to $500 per transaction (limit $1,500 per day) to your PayPal account via barcode with PayPal app. Other places to try are super markets or check-cashing businesses.

More info:

• What is the Cash a Check service in the PayPal app?

• How do I use the Cash a Check service in the PayPal app?