What to Do If a Check Is Lost in the Mail?

A check lost in the mail can create concern for both the intended recipient and the issuer. This common occurrence can disrupt financial plans and raise questions about payment security. Addressing a missing check promptly helps mitigate financial risks and ensures funds are received or accounted for. This guide offers practical steps to navigate such a situation.

Confirming a Missing Check and Initial Information Gathering

Before taking action, allow a reasonable period for mail delivery, as checks can be delayed rather than truly lost. For most standard mail, waiting approximately 7 to 10 business days from the expected delivery date is a practical approach before assuming a check is missing. During this waiting period, check all possible locations where the mail might have been misplaced, such as different mailboxes, with household members, or neighbors.

Once the waiting period has passed, the next step involves making an initial contact with the check’s sender if you are the payee, or the recipient if you are the payer, to confirm the check was sent or not yet received. This preliminary communication helps establish whether the check was indeed mailed and has not arrived. Gather specific details about the check: the exact amount, the date it was issued or expected, the full name of the sender, the full name of the intended recipient, and, if known, the check number. Having these details will streamline communication with financial institutions.

Actions for the Intended Recipient

If you are the intended recipient and have confirmed the check is missing, notify the sender. Clearly communicate that the check has not arrived and provide them with the relevant details you gathered, such as the check amount, issue date, and check number (if provided). This information is important for the sender to initiate a stop payment on the original check.

After notifying the sender, request a replacement check. The sender may have specific procedures or forms for re-issuing payments, especially if they are a business or organization. The re-issuance process will take some time, as the sender will need to confirm the stop payment on the original check before issuing a new one. Some entities may also require a notarized “Claim of Lost Check” form to attest to non-receipt of the original payment.

Actions for the Check Issuer

If you are the check issuer and have been informed that your check is lost, act promptly to protect your funds. Before contacting your bank, gather all critical information related to the lost check. This includes the exact check number, the precise amount the check was written for, the date it was issued, the full name of the payee, and your bank account number. This detailed information is essential for your bank to accurately identify and process a stop payment order.

Initiate a stop payment on the lost check with your bank. This can typically be done through various channels, including online banking platforms, by calling customer service, or by visiting a bank branch. A stop payment order instructs your bank not to honor the original check if it is presented for payment. Banks commonly charge a fee for this service, ranging from approximately $15 to $35, though specific fees vary by institution. Most stop payment orders remain in effect for about six months, but policies can vary.

Once the stop payment is placed, issue a new check to the intended recipient. Maintain records of both the original lost check and the stop payment order, along with details of the newly issued replacement check. This documentation provides a clear audit trail and can be helpful for reconciliation or in case of any future disputes.