Banks will usually reject cheques that are more than six months old, however it's at their discretion. Cheques remain legally valid for six years [http://www.fool.co.uk/news/your-money/current-accounts/2006/07/20/your-essential-banking-guide.aspx].
In the UK, a cheque is typically valid for 6 months from the date it was issued. After this period, the cheque may be considered stale-dated, and the bank may refuse to honor it. It is important to cash or deposit a cheque within this timeframe to avoid any issues with processing or acceptance by the bank.
To write a cheque in the UK, you need to fill in the recipient's name, the amount in words and figures, the date, and your signature. Make sure the cheque is properly filled out and signed to be valid.
3 months
Until six months after it is dated
6 Months from date of issue
A cheque is valid for a period of six months only.
A cheque issued without a date is not a valid instrument. You cannot cash a cheque that doesnt have a date on it.
The cheque is not valid and should be returned for reissue
Currently in India (As of 2013), all cheques are valid for a period of 3 months only. This rule is irrespective of the bank whose cheque is being used. So, a UCO bank cheque, an ICICI Bank cheque and an HDFC Bank cheque, all of them are valid only for 3 months from the date of issue.
An HSBC bank Cheque is valid for a period of about six months but some banks require a check be cashed within ninety days of the issue date or else the funds go forfeited. Other banks may allow checks to be valid for years.
The validity of a cheque typically depends on the banking regulations of the country where it was issued. In many countries, including the United States and Canada, a cheque is typically valid for six months from the date of issue. After this period, the cheque may be considered stale-dated, and the bank may choose not to honor it. It is always advisable to cash or deposit a cheque promptly to avoid any issues with its validity.
a bank cheque (UK) (check)(US)