How to Place a Stop Payment on a Check
Prevent an uncashed check from clearing your account. Get essential guidance on initiating and understanding stop payments.
A stop payment order instructs your bank to prevent a check you wrote from being cashed or deposited. This measure is used when you no longer wish for a payment to proceed, perhaps due to a dispute, a lost or stolen check, or an error in the payment details.
Gathering Necessary Information
Before contacting your bank to place a stop payment, gather specific details about the check. Banks require precise information to identify and halt the payment effectively. Key details include the check number, the exact amount of the check, the full name of the payee, and the date the check was written.
You can usually find these details in your checkbook register or on your bank’s online statements. Acting quickly is beneficial, as a stop payment can only be placed before the check is processed and the funds are withdrawn from your account.
Initiating a Stop Payment Order
Once you have the necessary check information, you can initiate the stop payment order through various methods offered by your bank. Many banks provide options for placing a stop payment online, over the phone, or in person at a branch. The specific steps may vary slightly depending on your bank’s systems.
If using online banking, navigate to a “stop payment” or “account services” section, select the relevant account, and input the required check details. After confirming the information, submit the request. For phone requests, call customer service, verify your identity, and provide the check information. Visiting a branch allows you to complete the request with a teller or representative, often requiring a form. Regardless of the method, obtain a confirmation number or written acknowledgment for your records.
Understanding the Stop Payment Order
A stop payment order remains active for a specific duration. For personal checks, this period is typically six months, though some banks may offer longer durations, such as 24 months. An oral stop payment request might only be effective for 14 calendar days unless confirmed in writing. If the check is not presented within the initial period, the order may expire, and the check could clear if presented later.
Banks commonly charge a fee for stop payment services. This fee can range from $20 to $35, with the average being around $30 to $32. Consult your bank’s fee schedule or inquire directly about the cost, as fees vary by institution and account type. If a stop payment order is nearing expiration and the check has not cleared, you may renew it for an additional period, though this may incur another fee.