Junior Forged The Checks

Do YOU Pay The Claim?

We find that more and more financial institutions are taking a "get tough" attitude when presented with claims for forged checks or withdrawals when the offender is a family member.

With drugs becoming a greater problem every day, we can expect these claims to face us more frequently.

HOW TO HANDLE THEM?
Don't be too quick to pay without a thorough investigation.

Many times, the customer service representative or tellers will know the family and/or the situation and will be able to assist in the investigation.

Ask for a copy of the police report. This way you have proof that the theft has been reported to the authorities, and your customer also understands that they will be joining you in prosecution. Once the customer understands that this is a police matter, and will result in legal action against one of their family or friends, they may decide to drop the claim.

In which case, they may obtain reimbursement directly from the passer, and you will be out of it.

Copyright © 1990 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 1, No. 1, 1/90