# Demand Drafts Explained: Differences From Checks and Financial Benefits

![Demand Draft: A prepaid instrument used to transfer money from one bank account to another.](https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vhbHeBdoKXIqeaork0cKQZatIiE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/demanddraft.asp-final-f0d798d5c78649ec8b2292892889558f.png)

*— Investopedia / Julie Bang*

## What Is a Demand Draft?

A demand draft enables individuals to transfer funds securely from one bank account to another. Unlike [checks](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/check.asp), demand drafts don’t require signatures to be cashed and are issued by banks to prevent insufficient funds during transactions. This method, although less flexible, offers a secure way to make large or important payments, particularly in scenarios where you need assurance of payment without the risk of a personal check bouncing.

### Key Takeaways

*   A demand draft is a prepaid instrument that allows bank transfers without requiring the drawer's signature.
*   Unlike checks, demand drafts do not allow payment to be stopped once issued.
*   Regulations improve protection against fraud by allowing victims to reclaim funds from the bank holding the demand draft.
*   Demand drafts are less flexible but offer greater security compared to electronic payment methods.
*   Obtaining a demand draft involves application, identification, fees, and compliance with Know Your Customer regulations.  
    

## How Demand Drafts Function

When a bank prepares a demand draft, it deducts the amount from the customer's account and transfers it to another bank. The drawer requests the demand draft, the [drawee](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/drawee.asp) is the paying bank, and the [payee](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/payee.asp) receives the money. Demand drafts were originally designed to benefit legitimate telemarketers who needed to withdraw funds from customer checking accounts using their bank account numbers and bank routing numbers.

For example, if a small business owner purchases products from another company on credit, the small business owner asks his bank to send a demand draft to the company for payment of the products, making him the drawer. The bank issues the draft, making it the drawee. After the draft matures, the owner of the other company brings the demand draft to his bank and collects his payment, making him the payee.

> **Important**
>
> Because a demand draft is a prepaid instrument, payment cannot be stopped, whereas payment of a check may be denied for insufficient funds.

## How to Obtain a Demand Draft

1.  Choose the issuing bank or financial institution.
2.  Visit the bank branch and provide identification and other required documentation if you're not an account holder.
3.  Fill out an application form with the necessary details, including the amount and the payee’s name.
4.  Provide supporting documents such as proof of identification and address in compliance with [KYC](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/k/knowyourclient.asp) regulations.
5.  Pay the required fees to receive a demand draft with a unique number printed on security paper.
6.  Verify the details on the demand draft before delivering it to the payee.  
    

## Comparing Demand Drafts With Other Payment Methods

### Demand Drafts Compared to Checks

Banks issue demand drafts, while individuals issue checks. Also, a demand draft is drawn by an employee of a bank while a check is drawn by a customer of a bank. Payment of a demand draft may not be stopped by the drawer as it may with a check.

Although a check can be hand-delivered, this is not the case with a demand draft. The draft may be drawn regardless of whether an individual holds an [account](https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/07/child_bank_account.asp) at the bank while a check may be written only by an account holder.

### Demand Drafts Compared to Wire Transfers

A demand draft is a physical payment instrument issued by a bank or financial institution representing a guaranteed form of payment as the purchaser pre-pays the funds. On the other hand, a wire transfer, also known as a bank transfer or electronic funds transfer (EFT), involves the electronic transfer of funds from one bank account to another.

The processing time for a demand draft may vary depending on factors such as the issuing bank and delivery method. However, wire transfers are generally faster than demand drafts. Often completed within hours or minutes, this allows for swift transfer of funds.  

Banks typically charge a fee for issuing a demand draft, which may vary depending on the bank and the amount of the draft. Additional charges may apply for services such as courier delivery. Wire transfers usually also involve transaction fees, which can vary depending on the banks involved, the transfer amount, and whether it is domestic or international.

Demand drafts are commonly used for secure transactions such as large amounts, educational fees, [property purchases](https://www.investopedia.com/purchasing-a-home-4689702), or settling financial obligations. This is the case where substantiation and secure payment delivery are highly important. Though wire transfers may also be used in this case, wire transfers are a more versatile form of payment that includes regular daily transactions of lower importance.

> **Important**
>
> Contact your bank immediately if your demand draft is lost or stolen.

### Demand Drafts Compared to Online Payment Systems

[Online payment systems](https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1111/alternate-methods-of-online-payment.aspx) are digital platforms that facilitate electronic transactions over the Internet, allowing individuals and businesses to make payments or transfer funds between bank accounts or digital wallets without the need for physical instruments. Compared to demand drafts, online payment systems typically offer faster processing times, allowing transactions to be completed in real time.

While demand drafts often incur transaction fees, more and more online payment systems may also offer free transactions for certain transfers or within specific limits. This may be free transactions based on the number of quantities or free transactions based on the size of the transaction. Consider how popular shopping websites can easily facilitate online payments for free.  

Online payment systems have gained significant popularity worldwide, used for various transactions, including e-commerce purchases, bill payments, peer-to-peer transfers, and subscription services. As noted above with wire transfers, demand drafts may be more suitable for more select types of transactions as opposed to online payments which may be used much more broadly.

## How Long Does It Take for a Demand Draft to Clear?

The clearing time for a demand draft can vary depending on factors such as the banks involved and the method of presentation. It typically takes several business days for the demand draft to clear and for the funds to become available to the payee. The exact time frame can depend on the policies and processes of the banks involved.

## What Fees and Charges Are Associated with Demand Drafts?

Fees associated with demand drafts include an issuance fee charged by the bank for providing the draft. Additionally, there may be additional charges for services like courier delivery if the draft needs to be sent to the payee through postal services or courier. The fees can vary between banks, so check with your bank for the specific charges.

## Can I Cancel or Stop a Demand Draft?

Yes, demand drafts can generally be canceled or stopped by the purchaser. If a demand draft needs to be canceled, the purchaser should contact the issuing bank immediately and provide the necessary details. The bank will guide the purchaser through the cancellation process which may involve submitting a written request and paying cancellation fees.

## What Should I Do If My Demand Draft Is Lost or Stolen?

If a demand draft is lost or stolen, it is crucial to take immediate action. Contact the issuing bank and provide them with all relevant details. The bank will guide you through the necessary steps to report the loss or theft. This typically involves submitting a written request, providing any supporting documents, and cooperating with the bank's investigation process to resolve the issue.

## The Bottom Line

A demand draft is a secure prepaid payment method used for bank transfers, offering both security and acceptance. Unlike checks, demand drafts do not require signatures, and funds cannot be stopped once issued.

They are particularly suitable for secure, large transactions or when a verifiable payment is necessary. Individuals must fill out an application, provide identification, and pay applicable fees to obtain a demand draft. Despite its advantages, users should be aware of processing times and potential fees and report any loss or theft immediately to the issuing bank.