No, if there was qn existing debt--for the moment, assume there was; I know you dispute it, though we'll get to that in a moment--and the debtor sends the creditor a check, then, regardless of any papers or offers accompanying the check, or anything written on the check itself, the debtor may cash or deposit the check and apply it against the balance owed. That's why, when you owe someone money, never send them amounts which you dispute until you first have in writing that they accept your terms.Since you dispute the debt, you may need to litigate to resolve it--if doing so is cost effective. Even representing yourself will cost something in court costs and also time; hiring a lawyer would, of course, cost money. Since the only way to resolve a dispute like this is litigation, your choices are:1) Bring a legal action, if you deem it worthwhile2) Don't pay, and if the HOA takes legal action, decide whether it's worth defending yourself (be careful of impacts on your credit rating)3) Pay the debt4) Negiate a settlement, if possible, then pay.