A certified check is a personal check written out against a checking account that is guaranteed by prepaid funds set aside by the credit union. The certification process physically marks the check indicating it is now a certified check and earmarks the funds for that check so the funds can’t be used for any other purpose. This is different from a Cashier Check. There may be a fee to certify a check.
Here are some examples of transactions that might require a certified check:
- Mortgage closing fees
- Security deposits for rental property
- Car purchases