Legal Definitions - general indorsement

A general indorsement is when a signature is placed on the back of a negotiable instrument, like a check, to transfer or guarantee the instrument or to acknowledge payment. It can also refer to the signature or notation itself.

For example, if someone signs the back of a check without specifying a specific payee, it becomes a blank indorsement or a general indorsement. This makes the check payable to the bearer and negotiable by delivery only.

Another example is a qualified indorsement, which limits the liability of the indorser if the instrument is dishonored. This is done by writing "without recourse" or "sans recourse" over the signature.

Overall, a general indorsement is a way to transfer or guarantee a negotiable instrument through a signature on the back.