If by "trouble" you mean criminally, technically yes you could have problems.  However, the reality is that the store will probably just notify you that the check was returned and ask you to come in and pay in cash or money order (plus a bounced check charge).  Once you do this the matter will end.  If you do not make good on what you owe, then the store will proceed on this most likely as a civil matter. This means that they can sue you in small claims, put a collection agency after you, and/or ruin your credit.  They will also notify one of the major check clearing systems so that you will probably be unable to cash checsk in the future (other than at your bank).   And again, there is the potential for a criminal charge. To make your life simple, take care of this ASAP.  For such a small sum its not worth all of the "trouble" not paying will cause you.