What Happens If You Lose a Check? Here’s What to Do

Losing a check, whether one you were expecting to receive or one you issued, can be a source of concern. While such an event might seem complicated, established procedures exist to help you navigate the situation. Understanding these steps can provide clarity and help protect your financial interests.

If You Lost a Check You Were Supposed to Receive

If you were anticipating a check that has not arrived or you misplaced it after receiving it, the first action involves contacting the check’s issuer. Inform them promptly that the check is missing. This communication is important not only to prevent potential fraudulent cashing of the original check but also to facilitate the process for issuing a replacement.

You may also consider reviewing your own bank account to confirm the check has not been processed. This check is particularly relevant if you were expecting a direct deposit or if it was a physical check that might have been deposited but has not yet cleared. Confirming the check’s status with both the sender and your bank helps in determining the next appropriate steps.

If You Wrote a Check That Was Lost

If a check you wrote is lost or stolen, or if the payee informs you it was not received, contact your bank immediately. This swift action helps prevent the original check from being fraudulently cashed. Your bank can then initiate a stop payment order.

Placing a Stop Payment Order

Executing a stop payment order is a direct way to prevent a lost or stolen check from being cashed. You can typically place a stop payment through various channels, including online banking platforms, a phone call to your bank’s customer service, or by visiting a branch in person. Many banks accept verbal requests but may require a written confirmation within a short timeframe, often around 14 days, for the order to remain effective.

When initiating a stop payment, you will need to provide specific information to your bank, such as the check number, the amount, the date it was written, and the payee’s name. Financial institutions generally charge a fee for this service, which can range from approximately $20 to $35, though this amount can vary by bank. A stop payment order is typically valid for about six months, and some institutions allow for renewal if needed.

A stop payment order is effective only if the check has not yet been processed or cashed. If the check is cashed despite a properly placed stop payment order, the bank may be liable for the amount of the check. This liability generally arises when the bank fails to honor a valid stop payment instruction.

Getting a New Check Issued

Once a stop payment order has been successfully placed on the original lost check, the next step involves arranging for a replacement. From the recipient’s perspective, it is important to communicate with the sender to confirm that the stop payment has been processed and that it is safe to issue a new check. This ensures that the original check cannot be cashed.

From the sender’s side, after confirming the stop payment is active, a new check can be safely issued. This replacement check can be sent through the mail, delivered in person, or, in some cases, the funds might be transferred electronically if that option is available and preferred by both parties. Confirming receipt of the new check by the payee helps ensure the transaction is completed.