Skip to content

Question & Answer

Question: I know if we want to return a check for insufficient funds we just stamp it NSF and send it back through the work. We have a check that came in today for payment, through the work, and the maker's signature (our customer who is the signer on the account) is forged. It isn't an NSF check, so how do we mark it and send it back? Do we have to send an affidavit of forgery with it?

Answer: If you are sure the signature is forged, mark the check "Signature does not agree with one on file". Some financial institutions also mark it "Refer to Maker". Then just return it through the work. You do not have to send an affidavit of forgery on a timely return. (Actually, there is no way to do that.) Many return item departments will also punch a hole in the account number of the check before it is returned to be sure it doesn't slide in again without your knowledge.

It would be good of you to call the depositary bank immediately. The depositary bank may call you after the check is returned and request an affidavit of forgery. You probably will wish to cooperate with them and assist them in recovering their funds if you can.

Copyright © 1995 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 5, No. 11, 8/95

First published on 08/01/1995

Filed under: 
Filed under operations as: 

Search Topics