Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act
About | Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Check 21
General
1. What is Check 21 and what is its basic purpose?
2. How will Check 21 make check processing more efficient?
3. Is electronic check processing secure?
4. Does Check 21 mean that customers can't get their checks back in their account statements?
5. What changes can I expect when Check 21 goes into effect?
6. Will Check 21 increase the speed with which checks are cleared between banks?
7. Will Check 21 change how fast my bank must make my check deposits available for withdrawal?
8. What is the difference between Check 21 and programs that convert checks to electronic payments?
Substitute Checks
9. What is a substitute check?
10. When is a substitute check legally the same as the original check?
11. Can I use a substitute check as proof of payment?
12. How are image statements different from substitute checks?
13. Can I demand a substitute check from my bank instead of a copy?
14. What should I do if something is wrong with the substitute check that I receive?
15. Is my bank required to tell me about substitute checks?
Original Checks
16. Can I still get my canceled checks back?
17. Can I get my original check if I need it?
18. Can I prevent others from using my original check to create a substitute check?
19. What if I receive a substitute check representing a fraudulent original check?
20. Do I need to use magnetic ink or toner when printing checks?
Consumer Protection
21. How am I protected under Check 21?
23. If I suffer a loss related to a substitute check I received, can I file a claim with my bank?
25. How do I make a claim under the Check 21 refund procedure?
26. How quickly must my bank handle my claim, and when will my account be refunded?
27. How will I know if my bank has refunded my account?
28. Can my bank delay my ability to withdraw the amount that it refunds?
29. What happens if my bank says it charged my account correctly?