Eligibility

Cook County State's Attorney
Bad Check Restitution Program

Anita Alvarez, State's Attorney

How to Determine a Check's Eligibility for the Program

A check is ELIGIBLE if...

The amount is no more than $5,000 (or multiple checks not exceeding this limit). There are no minimum dollar restrictions.
The check was received in Cook County, 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 10 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.
It is a two-party, government, stop payment, rent, or payroll check.
The identity of the check writer is unknown.
There is no amount, date, or signature on the check.
The bank has not processed the check.
The numeric and written amounts on the check do not match.
The check involves an "extension of credit" or payment on account.

Checks ineligible for the Cook County State's Attorney
Bad Check Restitution Program may be pursued through
Small Claims Court or by a private collection agency.