Bad Check Laws In Georgia

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Below are the civil and criminal penalties for writing a bad check in Georgia under Code - Contracts - Title 13, Section 13-6-15.

Civil Penalties: The payor of the bad check has 10 days after written demand by the payee to cover the amount of the check plus a service charge of $30.00 or 5 percent of the face amount of the check, whichever is greater, plus the amount of any fees charged to the holder of the check by a bank or financial institution as a result of the check not being honored before the holder of the check can file a civil suit against you. If civil action is taken the maker shall be liable, in addition to the amount owing upon such check, for damages of double the amount of the bad check, but in no case more than $500.00, and any court costs incurred by the payee in taking the action.

Criminal Penalties: Check for less than $100, fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment not to exceed 12 months or both. Check for $100 or more but less than $300, fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment not to exceed 12 months or both. Upon conviction defendant will be required to make restitution of the amount of the check together with all costs incurred.



For more information on bad check laws and for criminal and civil penalties in other states for writing bad checks, please read Bad Check Laws

Check with your state statutes for the most current information on Georgia bad check laws.

You may want to also read Getting A Checking Account While On The Chex System

Learn how to Prevent Overdraft And Bounced Check Fees

Although all information has been written in good faith and has been reviewed, please email us at [email protected] to report any inaccuracies.