How do you get access money when somebody writes you a check? You need to know how to cash a check or deposit it.
This time of year, people often write checks as gifts. If you cash a check, you'll get cash in your hands that you can spend immediately. You can also deposit the check and spend the money later, or put it into a savings account or CD that pays interest.
You should generally only cash a check if you intend to spend the cash soon. Your money is safer in the bank, and you'll be tempted to spend more if the money is burning a hole in your pocket.
Learn what to do with checks:

