If the account owner is unavailable when verifying a check, what must be done?

If the account owner is unavailable when verifying a check, what must be done?

• A. Contact the account officer for approval
• B. Proceed with verification by the teller
• C. Return the item to the customer
• D. Hold until the owner is available

Answer: (A)

When verifying a check, there needs to be proper authorization from someone who has authority over the account. If the account owner isn’t available, the teller must seek approval from the account officer to confirm that the check can be verified and processed. The account officer can confirm the owner’s intent, verify any needed details, and ensure everything complies with bank policies and risk controls. This prevents fraudulent activity and protects both the customer and the bank. Proceeding without that approval can bypass essential safeguards, and holding the item or returning it without attempting to obtain authorization would create delays or unnecessary friction for the customer. So the correct course is to contact the account officer for approval before moving forward.

When verifying a check, there needs to be proper authorization from someone who has authority over the account. If the account owner isn’t available, the teller must seek approval from the account officer to confirm that the check can be verified and processed. The account officer can confirm the owner’s intent, verify any needed details, and ensure everything complies with bank policies and risk controls. This prevents fraudulent activity and protects both the customer and the bank.

Proceeding without that approval can bypass essential safeguards, and holding the item or returning it without attempting to obtain authorization would create delays or unnecessary friction for the customer. So the correct course is to contact the account officer for approval before moving forward.