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Retailers can accept Travelers Cheques with confidence

American Express Travelers Cheques continue to be a popular payment method for domestic travelers in the United States, as well as for the 47 million visitors who come here from other countries each year. And, of course, they are also used for international trips.

All American Express Travelers Cheque products – including Gift Cheques and Cheques for Two – can be used to pay for purchases in retail stores in the U.S.

Retailers can rest assured that, if they follow a simple “watch and compare” signature check when an American Express Travelers Cheque is presented in their establishments, payment is guaranteed.

Guidelines for retailers

• The retailer’s first step should be to display the “American Express Travelers Cheques Welcome” decal on their window to let consumers know they can use this payment option.

• When a customer presents a travelers cheque in payment, there is no need for additional identification if the retailer watches the customer countersign in the lower left corner of the cheque – and American Express then compares the countersignature to the signature in the upper left corner.

• Payment is guaranteed when the signatures are a reasonable match.

• If the storekeeper suspects a forgery, he or she can request that the customer repeat the signature on the back of the cheque. If, after “watch and compare” is practiced, there is still some suspicion, call Customer Services at 1-800-525-7641.

• Retailers should treat the cheques the same as cash, although they may use their discretion when considering whether or not the requested amount of change is reasonable.

How banks handle travelers cheques

All U.S. banks accept American Express US $ Travelers Cheques, Gift Cheques and Cheques for Two from retail establishments at their face value. A small number of institutions may levy a nominal handling charge – retailers should ask their banks for details.

May 10, 2001

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