Cape & Islands District Attorney
Bad Check Restitution Program

Michael O'Keefe, District Attorney

 

 

Introduction

Filing a Report

Why it Works

Eligibility

Acceptance Tips

Report Forms

Contact Us

 

How to determine a check's
eligibility for the program.

 

A check is Eligible if...

  • The amount is no more than $2,500 (or multiple checks not exceeding this limit). There are no minimum dollar restrictions.
  • It was received in Cape & Islands District, deposited in a bank in exchange for goods or services and was presumed "good" at the time of acceptance.
  • A "Courtesy Notice" was sent to check writer allowing 2 days to make check good.
  • It is submitted to the program within 90 days from the date on the check.
  • A photo I.D. (driver's license or state identification card) was recorded at the time of the transaction.

A check is Ineligible if...

  • It is post-dated.
  • Both parties knew there were insufficient funds at the time of transaction.
  • Is an out-of-state, two-party, government, stop payment, or payroll check.
  • The identity of the check writer is unknown.
  • There is no amount, date, or signature on the check.
  • It has not been processed by a bank.
  • The numeric and written amounts on the check do not match.
  • The check involves an "extension of credit" or payment on an account.

Checks ineligible for the Cape & Islands District Attorney Bad Check Restitution
Program may be pursued via small claims court or by a private collection agency.