What are the advantages of 'Account Payee' crossing of a cheque?

The advantages of 'Account Payee' crossing of a cheque are:

1. Payment only to the named payee — The amount of the cheque is credited only to the bank account of the person named as the payee. It cannot be paid to anyone else.

2. Reduces fraud — Even if the cheque is lost or stolen, no one other than the payee can encash it, since the money will go directly into the payee's account.

3. Cannot be transferred — An 'Account Payee' cheque effectively cannot be endorsed or transferred to another person, providing additional security.

4. Safer mode of payment — It is a much safer way to make payments, especially over long distances or to unfamiliar parties.

5. Acts as a record — The collecting bank records the credit, providing a clear audit trail of who actually received the money.