If you wish to use your check to pay a note due at some other bank, or in buying real estate, or stocks, or bonds, you may find it necessary to get the check certified. This is done by an officer of the bank who writes or stamps across the face of the check the words "Certified" or "Good when properly indorsed" and signs his name. (See illustration.) The amount will immediately be deducted from your account, and the bank, by guaranteeing your check, becomes responsible for its payment. Banks will usually certify any check drawn upon them if the depositor has the amount called for to his credit, no matter who presents the check. If you should get a check certified and then not use it, deposit it in your bank, otherwise your account will be short the amount for which it is drawn. In Canada, all checks are presented to the "ledger keeper" for certification before being presented to the paying teller.

A Certified Check.