My name is spelt differently on my cash/travellers cheques receipts - should I worry about it?

Question

A week ago I exchanged £450 into US dollars travellers cheques by American Express, and got about £100 worth in cash from my travel agent. My surname has been spelled wrongly on both sales receipts, although only by 2 letters. I rang the travel agent, they said it shouldn't be a problem, how is it not? Obviously my name looks different on the actual cheques themselves, would I need the receipt when using my traveller's cheques? I fly to the US in 3 days.

Also, I've heard that you need to write down all the numbers of your cheques down - do I need to do this, as I only signed them with my name?

Answer 1

The check has your account number on it. Therefore you are being financially identified by your account number, so it doesn't matter how your name is spelled. However, I'd get it fixed anyways just to play it safe. It helps avoid bank errors I suppose.

Yes, in your Transactions Register, you should be writing down the numbers of your checks to ensure that that particular check was an authorized transaction from you.

Answer 2

Where ever you got the cheques I'd go back and have them redone. It might not be a problem with your travel agent, but once you hit the states, they don't have to accept it. You might be out of luck and money!  I wouldn't take the chance.

Get it taken care of before you board.