How do I endorse a check made out to me so that someone else can cash it or deposit it to their account?

Third Party check:
Second party signs and then puts “Pay to the Order of” name on back of check? Third party then endorses below and submits to bank.
http://www.bankingquestions.com/checkingaccounts/q_3rdpartyckhtml.html

@SeventhSense is correct. Be advised that some banks require the transaction to happen at the teller window, with both parties present to show their IDs.

I third @SeventhSense. Beware though, some tellers can be a real pain in the butt about it.

Yes it’s rarely done anymore but there are times when it’s beneficial such as avoiding a paper trail. It’s best to just deposit it and write them another check.

@kevbo, you can endorse it “Pay to the Order of PandoraBoxx” and then sign your name. As PandoraBoxx, I will then sign it and deposit it to my account. My bank will then accept it for deposit, and then put a hold on the funds until the check clears. I would not be able to go to the original bank and cash the check.

The correct term for this transaction makes me the “holder in due course.”

I’ve always endorsed it, then written below my name “for deposit only to the account of Joe Blow” or whatever, then they endorse it.

On back of check:
Signature
Pay to the order of xxxx xxxxxxx

I had to do this recently for my grown son who wanted me to deposit his paycheck into my account because he was getting ready to leave on the weekend & would be traveling. My bank was kind enough to do it for me since they recognize me, but warned me they usually like to have the 2nd party present. So they are getting more difficult about it.