My roommate and I received a check for our security deposit but roommate won't sign it, what can I do? (apartment)

[Oportco]

I lived in a three bedroom apartment with two other roommates and had to move out due to my other roommates negligence. Now that we're out we received a check for all three of us to split but my roommate won't sign it. What can my other roommate and I do to get our share of the money?

[Parnassia]

Originally Posted by Oportco

I lived in a three bedroom apartment with two other roommates and had to move out due to my other roommates negligence. Now that we're out we received a check for all three of us to split but my roommate won't sign it. What can my other roommate and I do to get our share of the money?

Were all three of you listed on the lease? If not, who was?

Was the check made out to the three of you? How was the payee line written out? It can make a difference and can also depend on the bank the check is payable by. For example:

If the check was written to Chad or Mike or Joe, any of those payees can cash it.
If it was written out to Chad, Mike, Joe, one of the three may be able to cash it.
If it was written to Chad and Mike and Joe, all three must endorse it.

What about returning the original check to the LL and ask them to issue another to just one of you or a separate check to each. Then, cash it, call or mail the obnoxious roommate and tell him where he can come pick up his share. Consider that an incentive for him to grow up and behave like an adult.