Sometimes a check is returned to the bank where it was first deposited. If a bank refuses to honor a check, it must return it to the bank where it was first deposited within a certain period specified by law. How Banks Deal with Problem Checks E very time a bank cashes a check or accepts a check for deposit, it is taking a risk. Stop-Payment Orders Under certain circumstances, a checkwriter may want to stop payment on a check. A checkwriter may request a stop payment in person, by telephone, or in writing.
Many banks require written confirmation of a telephone request.
The order should specify the check number and the exact dollar amount. Banks usually charge a fee, which varies from bank to bank, for this service. Banks are not required, and may be extremely reluctant, to stop payment on certified or cashier's checks. The degree of risk to the bank is greater for checks presented by new customers because the risk of fraud is greater. Personal checks are riskier to banks than other types since they are more likely to bounce because of insufficient funds.