A simple way to keep copies of your checks safe without storing them yourself.
Check safekeeping is a service where your bank keeps digital images or copies of all the checks written from your account for several years—usually up to 7 years. Instead of sending the physical checks back to you with your monthly statements, the bank keeps everything securely stored, and you can access the copies whenever you need them.
What Is Check Safekeeping?
Check safekeeping is a banking service that stores copies of your canceled checks electronically. If you ever need proof that a payment was made, you can simply log in to your online banking account and view the image of the check. Most banks let you access at least the last 12 months of check images online, and older copies can be requested from the bank if needed.
This service helps you keep your financial records organized without the hassle of saving paper checks at home.
How Check Safekeeping Works
When you write a check and it’s processed, the bank cancels it and saves a digital image instead of sending the check back to you. Here’s what typically happens:
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You write a check to pay someone.
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The check clears, and the bank cancels it.
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A digital copy is stored in the bank’s secure system.
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You can view it anytime through online banking or by visiting your bank.
If you’re a Bank of America customer, for example, you can see photocopies of canceled checks from the past 12 months right in Online Banking or at a branch.
Why Check Safekeeping Matters
1. It keeps you organized
No more piles of old checks or stuffed envelopes. Everything is stored digitally.
2. Easy access when you need proof
Need to confirm a payment for taxes, rent, or a dispute? Just pull up the check image online.
3. Better security
Digital storage means your checks are protected from loss, damage, or theft.
4. Saves time and space
You don’t have to sort or store physical checks anymore.
When You Might Use Check Safekeeping
Here are a few everyday situations where check safekeeping is helpful:
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Proving a bill was paid when a company claims they didn’t receive your check.
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Tracking spending by reviewing old payments.
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Preparing documents for taxes or financial records.
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Resolving disputes with landlords, contractors, or businesses.
Even if you rarely write checks, it’s still useful to have a reliable backup stored by your bank.
Final Thoughts
Check safekeeping makes managing your finances simpler and more secure. By letting the bank store your canceled check images, you get easy access anytime you need proof of payment—without keeping stacks of paper at home. It’s a small service, but it helps keep your financial life organized and stress-free.
If you ever need a copy of a check, just sign in to your online banking account or visit your nearest branch.
