Money Moral Dilemma: Should I tell my great aunt I couldn't cash her cheque?

MSE_Kelvin

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks...

My mum's aunt very kindly sends me a cheque every Christmas. This year, I tried to deposit it via my banking app, but was told the date wasn't legible and to contact her to ask for another cheque or a bank transfer. I feel a bit awkward telling her this - should I just wait and see if she notices I haven't cashed it?

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CookieMonster

Tell her. She may have had her account cleaned out by that Prince from Nigeria...

rach_k

She might be watching her account, keeping the money aside, so I would want her to know in case she thinks you're being ungrateful.  I'd probably not want to tell her myself - it would feel a bit rude even though it really isn't!  Does your mum talk to her regularly?  If she does, I'd ask her to just mention that there was a problem with the cheque so the bank wouldn't pay it but not to worry about a new one, perhaps suggest she treats herself instead.  You'll probably find she sends you a new one anyway but you won't need to feel awkward like you've asked for it.

CRANKY40

Easiest way is to pretend the cheque had a nasty accident and tell her it won't be cashed. The next bit is up to the great aunt to decide.

anita116

Of course you should tell her.   Nothing to be embarrassed about - just say the date wasn't clear enough for the bank - ie it's the bank's fault.   It was given in good faith so be honest.   It's not rude - it would be rude not to.   If you don't say then what about next year and the next etc etc.

AnneMary

I would try paying in at a physical branch first (so 20th century)! 

Andrea9876

I would also go to a branch or even deposit it via cash machine. 

REJP

Tell her.  Then she can write another cheque.  She may not realise there is a problem.

elizabethhull

I was that Aunt a couple of years ago - forgot to sign the darn thing !!
Fortunately my niece told me, as yes, I would have noticed it not being cashed., and then I would have been the embarrassed one wondering how to ask.
Tell her, definitely.
She's now happy with Amazon vouchers,  thank goodness.

mrpunk50

This is a "social niceties dilemma", not really financial or moral...
You should definitely let her know. Personally, if I didn't speak to this relative often, I would feel mercenary phoning and asking for a new cheque. So I would write a letter asking how she is, sharing any news, and mentioning the cheque in passing. I would also tell her not to worry about the money although I was grateful for her generosity. She's likely to send a new cheque regardless. 

sabretoothtigger

Keep it for an emergency and/or when you next speak to her mention the downsides to modern tech as an aside