Based on your financial expertise, provide your response or viewpoint on the given financial question or topic. The response format is open.

What is the purpose of endorsing a check?
I believe the banks are protecting themselves when they "require" your endorsement. Years ago. they used to ask for your endorsement, and not require it. If you endorse the check, it legally authorizes them to debit your account, if the check is later returned for non-sufficient funds (NSF). It mostly protects the bank, and not the customer.