What Does Pay Any Bank Mean in Legal Terms?

Definition & Meaning

The term "pay any bank" refers to a specific instruction found on a negotiable instrument, such as a check. When an item is indorsed with the phrase "pay any bank," it indicates that any bank can accept the item for payment. This means that the rights of the holder of the item are limited to banks until the item is returned to the original customer who initiated the collection or is specially indorsed by a bank to someone who is not a bank.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if a person writes a check to "pay any bank," that check can be cashed or deposited by any bank. This facilitates easier transactions for the payee. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Indorsement The signature or statement on the back of a negotiable instrument. Indorsement can be general or special, while "pay any bank" is a specific type of general indorsement.
Special Indorsement An indorsement that specifies the person to whom the instrument is payable. Unlike "pay any bank," a special indorsement restricts payment to a specific individual or entity.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you encounter a negotiable instrument marked with "pay any bank," you can present it at any bank for payment. If you are unsure about the process or need to create related documents, consider exploring ready-to-use templates on US Legal Forms. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Typical use: Checks and negotiable instruments
  • Jurisdiction: Governed by the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
  • Key benefit: Facilitates easy payment processing

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means that any bank can accept a negotiable instrument for payment.