how long are cheques valid for?

[thewomanwhothoughtshewasahat]

I have a large cheque from an insurance company, but I am disputing it (it should be larger). The whole think is going to the Ombudsman. In the meantime what should I do with the cheque? If - and it's possible - the Ombudsman don;t find in my favour I don;t want to find the cheque is no longer valid and I'm screwed. The cheque is for all my premiums as they are declaring the policy null and void. If I cash it it looks like I am accepting this. any advice?

6 months, I think

You could write to the insurance company saying that you are cashing the cheque as part payment of your claim. Make it clear that you are not accepting it as full and final settlement.

I have asked the ombudsman what to do with it. I think I'll call them this week. just want to set my mind at rest. The problem is they originally set teh cheque in July. I sent it back and complained. They took about 3 months to look at my complaint. They rejected it and sent my the cheque back again - the slight problem is that it was teh same cheque - ie with a July date, even though - second time aruond - they were sending it me in November. god i hope Idon;t get screwed on his. DH will go balistic.

I have paid in personal cheques from relatives over 6m old. However I would check with ombudsman. Also would do as Freckle says if you are worried, and keep a copy of the letter to them. Think that if they didn't increase the amount and cheque was somehow out of date, wouldn't be a problem getting them to reissue.

Good luck with your claim!