Cashing Joint Tax Rebate with One Person?

Question

We got our tax rebate today and it of course has mine and my wifes name on it and reads "me & my wife" of course our names are before and after the "&" I have severe panic disorder and agoraphobia and dont go out at all. So, when she tried to cash the check they wanted me to be present but I cant. So, my question is how in the world are we going to cash the check and me going out isnt an option? Also, we dont have a bank account.

Answer 1

Since both of you are on the check, you both have to sign the back of the check.  Perhaps if you have signed it, she can go someplace else to cash it.

Answer 2

There are plenty of banks that offer free, online banking. Wamu.com, for example. Open a joint account, mail in the check and your wife will be able to withdraw the cash with your new ATM card.

This will also save you the outrageous check-cashing fees you are probably incurring each week.