I sold a car "long distance" earlier this year. The buyer mailed me a cashiers check. It was drawn on his local bank. Thanks to the convenience of the internet, I simply looked up the phone number of the bank and gave them a call. They were happy to verify the check was authentic, giving me the check number, the amount, the date issued, and buyer. Since all this information checked out, (ouch! accidental pun.) I deposited the check and decided to do the deal.

Key thing is to verify the check is authentic. I have read about forged cashiers checks, thanks to the quality of home printers. Look for security features on the check, such as microprinting and an artificial watermark on the back. Then contact the issuing institution and have them confirm the authenticity.

- JimY