Check 21
Applies to all checking account holders
What you need to know
Legislation went into effect on October 28th, 2004 which enhanced the security of our country’s financial system and streamlined the way checks are processed.
What is Check 21?
Check 21 is a law that allows financial institutions to replace paper checks with “substitute” checks created from an electronic imaging process.
Why do we need this system?
In the past, checks have been physically transported from one place to another. After the September 11th terrorist attacks, it became apparent that this outdated system left the nation’s economy vulnerable to disruptions. Check 21 will serve the dual purpose of protecting our economy and speeding up check processing.
How will this change my checking account?
If you normally receive cancelled checks with your statement, some of these may be replaced by substitute checks. They will look different, but they will contain all the information on the front and back of your original check. It’s also important to understand that your checks will clear sooner, so you will need to be sure you have funds available whenever you write a check. For further information, please feel free to contact us.
How do I make a claim for a refund?
If you believe that you have suffered a loss relating to a substitute check that you received and that was posted to your account, please contact us toll-free at 1.866.844.7500. You must contact us within 40 calendar days of the date that we mailed (or otherwise delivered by a means to which you agreed) the substitute check in question or the account statement showing that the substitute check was posted to your account, whichever is later. We will extend this time period if you were not able to make a timely claim because of extraordinary circumstances.
Your claim must include:
- A description of why you have suffered a loss (for example, you think the amount withdrawn was incorrect);
- An estimate of the amount of your loss;
- An explanation of why the substitute check you received is insufficient to confirm that you suffered a loss; and
- A copy of the substitute check and/or the following information to help us identify the substitute check: (identifying information, for example the check number, the name of the person to whom you wrote the check, the amount of the check).