New Law Clears Checks Faster
By: Import User
Updated: January 7, 2009
Don`t write a check you can`t cover anymore.
A new check processing system is now in effect that speeds the time it takes for a check to clear.
The Check 21 law shortens the one to five day period between the time you write a check and the time the money is taken from your account.
Banks can now transmit electronic images of your checks instead of having to transport them.
"By electronifying the process, you enable the industry to take steps out of the process speed it up and by speeding it up you not only bring about efficiency, you aid in fraud detection and counterfeit detection," explained Fred Herr, Federal Reserve Bank, Minneapolis branch.
Consumer advocates say be sure to watch your bank statements to make sure no checks are debited twice.
The Federal Reserve pushed for the change after transportation was disrupted on Sept. 11.
