---
title: What Is the Difference Between Single-Check and Split-Check Closings?
description: Single-check closings pay commission to the brokerage first, while split-check closings pay agents at closing with broker authorization.
---
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May 23, 2026
# What Is the Difference Between Single-Check and Split-Check Closings?
## A single-check closing sends the full commission to the brokerage, which then pays the agent. A split-check closing allows the title company to pay agents directly at closing, but only with written authorization from the broker, usually through a CDA.
### The Simple Explanation
Both methods describe how commission is paid at closing.
The difference is who handles the final payment to the agent.
Single-check means the brokerage handles it after closing.
Split-check means the closing agent handles it at closing, with broker approval.
### Single-Check Closings
In a single-check closing, all commission is paid to the brokerage.
The title company sends one payment to the broker for that side of the transaction.
After closing:
- The brokerage deposits the funds
- The brokerage calculates splits
- The brokerage pays the agent
This is the traditional way commission is handled
.
### How Single-Check Works
At closing:
Seller → Title Company → Brokerage
After closing:
Brokerage → Agent
The agent gets paid after the brokerage processes the transaction.
### Split-Check Closings
In a split-check closing, the commission is divided and paid directly at the closing table.
Instead of sending one check to the brokerage, the title company issues separate payments based on instructions.
Those instructions come from the broker, not the agent.
### How Split-Check Works
At closing:
Seller → Title Company → Multiple parties
This can include:
- Brokerage
- Listing agent
- Buyer’s agent
- Referral parties
The closing agent distributes the funds according to a CDA.
### The Role of the CDA
A split-check closing only works if the broker authorizes it.
The CDA tells the title company:
- How to split the commission
- Who gets paid
- Where to send the money
Without a CDA, the title company will not release commission funds to individual agents.
### Key Difference
The difference is not who earns the money.
The broker always earns the commission.
The difference is how the agent gets paid.
Single-check:
The brokerage pays the agent after closing
Split-check:
The title company pays the agent at closing, under broker instruction
### What Does Not Change
No matter which method is used:
- The brokerage earns the commission
- The broker controls the funds
- The broker approves the payment
Split-check does not bypass the broker.
It only changes the timing and mechanics of payment.
### Why Split-Check Is Used
Split-check closings are commonly used when:
- Agents want to be paid at closing
- There are multiple parties involved
- The brokerage wants faster disbursement
It simplifies the payout process while staying compliant.
### Common Misunderstanding
Many agents think:
“In split-check, the title company pays me directly.”
That is not accurate.
The title company is following the broker’s instructions.
The broker is still controlling the payment.
### Bottom Line
Single-check closings send all commission to the brokerage first, then the brokerage pays the agent.
Split-check closings allow payment at closing, but only with the broker’s authorization through a CDA.
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