A self cheque is a simple way to withdraw cash from your own bank account by writing a cheque payable to yourself instead of another person.
Quick Summary
- Payee name: Write “Self”
- Purpose: Cash withdrawal from your own account
- Who can encash: Only the account holder
- Where: At your bank branch (sometimes via drop-box + teller)
- Safety: Carry valid ID when withdrawing cash
What Is a Self Cheque?
A self cheque is a cheque drawn by an account holder to self to withdraw money directly from their bank account. It’s commonly used when you need cash but don’t want to use an ATM or when ATM limits are insufficient.
How to Write a Self Cheque (Step-by-Step)
- Date: Write the current date.
- Pay: Write “Self” in the payee field.
- Amount (figures): Write the amount (e.g., ₹10,000).
- Amount (words): Write the amount in words.
- Signature: Sign exactly as per bank records.
- Optional (safety): Write “Bearer” if you intend to withdraw at the counter (many banks allow default bearer).
Tip: Don’t overwrite. Use black/blue ink only.
How to Encash a Self Cheque
- Visit your home branch (some banks allow non-home branches).
- Submit the cheque at the cash counter.
- Show a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
- Cash is paid after verification.
When Should You Use a Self Cheque?
- ATM cash withdrawal limit exhausted
- Need a large cash amount
- ATM not working / no nearby ATM
- Account has sufficient balance but card issues
Self Cheque vs Bearer Cheque vs Account Payee
| Feature | Self Cheque | Bearer Cheque | Account Payee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payee | “Self” | Anyone holding it | Named account only |
| Cash withdrawal | Yes (by holder) | Yes | No |
| Safety | Medium | Low | High |
| Common use | Own cash withdrawal | Cash payments | Transfers/deposits |
Important Rules & Things to Remember
- Funds must be available in your account.
- Signature must match bank records.
- Banks may ask for ID verification.
- Some banks set branch-level limits for cash payouts.
- Post-dated or stale cheques may be rejected.
FAQs on Self Cheque
Q1. Can someone else encash my self cheque?
A. Typically no. Banks usually require the account holder’s presence and ID.
Q2. Is a self cheque the same as a bearer cheque?
A. Not exactly. A self cheque is specifically drawn to yourself. Bearer cheques can be encashed by anyone holding them.
Q3. Can I deposit a self cheque in another account?
A. Generally, self cheques are meant for cash withdrawal, not transfers. Use an account payee cheque for deposits.
Q4. Is there a limit on self cheque withdrawals?
A. Limits may vary by bank/branch. Check with your branch for same-day cash availability.
Troubleshooting
- Cheque bounced/rejected: Recheck date, amount mismatch, or signature.
- Insufficient cash at branch: Ask for partial payment or revisit later.
- Non-home branch issue: Confirm acceptance rules beforehand.
Security Tips
- Avoid writing bearer unless necessary.
- Don’t share signed cheques.
- Cancel unused cheques by crossing and writing “Cancelled”.
Conclusion
A self cheque is a quick, traditional, and reliable way to withdraw cash from your own bank account—especially useful when ATMs aren’t an option. Write it carefully, carry ID, and check branch rules for a smooth experience.
