endossos

Endossos are endorsements on negotiable instruments, such as checks, promissory notes, or bills of exchange, consisting of signatures or transfer inscriptions placed on the back of the document. Through an endoso, the holder transfers the rights to collect payment to another person or imposes liability on the signer if the instrument is not paid. Endossos facilitate the transfer of an instrument without requiring the issuer’s involvement and help maintain liquidity in payments.

The two most common forms are blank endorsements and special endorsements. A blank endorsement contains only the endorser’s signature, converting the instrument into bearer paper that can be negotiated by possession. A special endorsement names a specific endorsee, directing payment to that person. Endossos may also include qualifiers. A qualified endorsement or the phrase “without recourse” can exclude or limit the endorser’s liability if the instrument later fails. Conversely, ordinary endoso generally preserves the endorser’s liability upon dishonor. The rules governing endossos vary by jurisdiction, but many legal systems require the endorsement to be genuine, dated, and authorized; forged or unauthorized endorsements can render the instrument invalid or expose the endorser to penalties.

In practice, endossos are widely used in banking and commerce to move rights efficiently, enable interim ownership, and simplify collection processes. They are distinct from the original issuer’s sole liability to pay, though the issuer’s obligation remains until the instrument is fully paid or discharged.