postdate

Postdate is a verb meaning to assign a date to a document or instrument that is later than the actual date of creation. The related adjective is postdated, and the noun postdating is used when describing the act itself. In everyday use, postdating most commonly appears with financial instruments such as checks, where a check bears a future date. The payer intends that the funds be withdrawn or made available only on or after that date, and the recipient may wait to present the instrument or delay cashing it.

The handling of postdated items varies by jurisdiction and institution. Some banks will honor a postdated check on or after the stated date, while others may place a hold, or refuse payment until the date is reached. Laws governing postdating range from permissive to restricted, and improper postdating can carry legal or contractual risk, especially if used to defraud or mislead.

Postdating can also occur in administrative or record-keeping contexts, to align documents with future events or obligations. It is distinct from backdating, which assigns an earlier date than the actual date. In all cases, the validity and consequences of postdating depend on local law, contract terms, and institution policy.