I found $1200 in amex travelers checks.?

Question

They were just laying on the sidewalk in an envelope. The checks were never signed by the person who purchased them. Can I sign them and go to my bank and cash them? Is the owner able to track them when they are cash and find out who cashed them?

Answer 1

When you purchase American Express travelers checks, a receipt stays on file with American Express that lists the serial number run and the purchaser's name and address, plus an example of the purchaser's signature. If you cash any of them, it will leave an easily traceable record.

You can find out who purchased them by calling American Express at 1-800-525-7641. Just because they haven't been reported stolen yet doesn't mean they won't be.

Answer 2

You bet, there are numbers on the checks.  Once the owner realizes they are missing, they report those numbers to AmEx and they go on a list.  By attempting to cash them, you would be guilty of theft and would have to pay the consequences.

Answer 3

The are traceable. If you sign them, you will have to sign with the same name that is on the checks - that is considered to be forgery. Definitely a crime. Mail them back to Amex. Call Amex for the lost checks department address. Be honest and forget you ever found them. Include your name and address, there may be a reward.