Bad Check Collection

Collection of NSF Checks in Georgia

For businesses providing goods or services, dealing with a returned check due to insufficient funds is highly frustrating. Fortunately, Georgia’s laws are designed to support creditors, and by following the necessary procedures, you can often reclaim your money along with additional penalties related to bad checks.

Insufficient Funds Check Collection in Georgia

Atlanta is subject to Georgia’s strict penalties for bad check issuance. As a creditor, you may demand up to double the check’s value, capped at $500, plus a $25 administrative fee. Although this doesn’t cover checks with a stop payment, penalties apply to those returned for insufficient funds. Additionally, Georgia has criminal statutes to address such issues. Contact our office for more comprehensive information on these statutes.

I Was Given a Bad Check, What Should I Do?

Even with careful measures, encountering a bad check is sometimes unavoidable. When you’ve offered a service or product, receiving due payment is your right. Thus, discovering a check was returned due to insufficient funds or was drawn on a closed account can be quite exasperating. In Georgia, writing a bad check on such accounts is potentially criminal and may also lead to civil claims for damages, as outlined in OCGA 13-6-15. At Howe & Associates, our experienced bad check collection attorneys in Atlanta are prepared to guide you in pursuing legal action to recover owed amounts, but consider the following steps first.

1. Make a Call to the Check Writer

While some write bad checks intentionally, others might have made a genuine mistake, such as miscalculating their balance or facing a payroll issue. We suggest that business owners first reach out to the customer, inform them of the check’s return, and give them a chance to rectify the situation. If they cannot issue another check, propose a cash payment. Be prepared to follow up if necessary, but always maintain professional communication—avoid calling during early or late hours, and be firm yet courteous.

2. Send a Certified Letter

If phone communication doesn’t resolve the issue, send a certified letter to the check writer asking for payment and detailing the steps you will take if the debt is not settled. Keep a copy of the letter and records of all interactions.

3. Hire a Professional

If you are unable to collect the funds independently, it might be time to seek help from a bad check collection attorney in Atlanta. Legal professionals can assist you in suing for up to twice the check’s amount, limited to $500.

Howe & Associates is dedicated to representing creditors in the process of bad check collection in Atlanta. We stand ready to help you recover your funds and potential statutory penalties associated with these financial obligations.