Recovering Bad Checks

[berkshire bee]

I assume in this case, you couldn't contact the person. The good part is that you eventually got the check cashed but the bad part is you ended up with $21 of a $40 sale. One other possibility would have been to talk to your bank and see if they would waive the return fee. I accidentally used the wrong deposit slip once, then wrote a check to another bank, thinking their was enough money in my account. I got a double whammy and charged by both banks. When I realized what had happened, I went to the banks and explained, with proof of my good intentions and both banks waived the fees.

[Jeffrey Todd]

Regarding bad checks and bank fees: I would shop for a GOOD credit union. Mine charges only $2 for a deposited check that has insufficient funds. I would even be sure to let the manager of your current bank know that you will be taking your money elsewhere because of the outrageous fee they are charging you for someone else's bad check.
He might be inclined to refund your money and not charge you for future bad checks, but if not, good riddance.
CentralPA guy is right; bankers are like thieves, pirates, or politicians in that they separate you from your money without giving you anything in return. Exercise your free-market rights and find someone who values your business.

[Deeptime]

I'm curious, If you specifically ask, or better yet, have included on the bill of sale, a signed statement that they confirm that there are suffucient funds to cover the check, does that then make them guilty of some law for theft by wilfull misrepresentation?

[peacekeeperapiaries]

Here in FL it is a crime to write a bad check, I am sure it is the same in most other states. I suggest getting a DRIVERS LICENSE number written on the check along with a phone number, and physical address (PO BOX is no good). FL courts will not prosecute without a DRIVERS LICENSE number. With proper information you might be able to contact the person and recoup your bank fees.