Trust FundsIntermediateAlabama Exam

A broker receives an earnest money check from a buyer but the seller has not yet accepted the offer. The broker should:

ACash the check and hold the funds in their operating account until acceptance, though this can vary by county
BReturn the check to the buyer until acceptance
CHold the check uncashed or deposit it per written instructions, pending acceptance or per the contract termsCorrect
DSend the check directly to the seller

Why Hold the check uncashed or deposit it per written instructions, pending acceptance or per the contract terms Is Correct

Answer C: Hold the check uncashed or deposit it per written instructions, pending acceptance or per the contract terms

Alabama practice and AREC guidance generally require brokers to hold earnest money checks uncashed (or deposit them per the contract terms) pending offer acceptance. The broker must not cash the check and commingle funds — and must follow the specific terms agreed to by the parties.

Exam Tip: Trust Funds

Trust fund questions test the rules for handling client money. Know the deadlines for depositing trust funds, what constitutes commingling vs. conversion, and the penalties for violations.

Key Trust Funds Terms in This Question

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