Edit Legal California Bad Checks Forms For Free

Writing a bad check is a crime if the check writer knew that there were insufficient funds to cover the check and intended to defraud you. It is also a crime to forge a check or write a check.

Key Takeaways. A bad check refers to a check that can't be negotiated or honored because it's drawn on a nonexistent account or one that has insufficient funds. A bad check is also known as a hot check.

But whether you'll face criminal penalties can depend on the laws in your state and if you cashed a bad check intentionally. If you are the victim of a scam and deposited a bad check in good faith, you're unlikely to face criminal charges. But if you knowingly deposited a check, you might face fines and jail time.

Send certified mail. The check you wrote for $________, dated ______, which was made payable to _____________(write your/payee's name here), was returned by ______________ (write name of bank) because ____________(account was closed OR the account had insufficient funds).

The Demand Letter Your demand letter must request that you be paid the full amount of the check, any bank fees and the cost of mailing the demand. It also tells the person who gave you the bad check, that if they do not pay within 30 days of your mailing the demand letter, you can sue for the check plus damages.

This letter serves as notice that your check number __________________,drawn on _______________________Bank or Credit Union, dated _________________, in the amount of $________________, made payable to _____________________, has been refused payment by your bank for the reason of lack of funds, insufficient funds, stop ...