do checks get returned to you?

Question

i saw my mom leafing through checks that were used several years ago and i didnt know they got sent back....i mean they were used but do all checks get sent back to the address on the check?

Answer 1

They used to do that but nowadays they only send you copies of the cleared checks for your records.

Answer 2

It was an option for account holders to receive their canceled checks once processed. However, with the implementation of Check 21 a few years ago, "paper" checks are no longer processed. Today, after a check is deposited and presented for payment, banks send electronic images through the channels to get collected and the paper checks are destroyed. This came about as a result of 9/11. When airports shut down banks were unable to send its work to get processed. Now, your mom will have a photo copy of the check returned rather than the actual check . The good news-these photos are as good as the originals.

Answer 3

The best answer to this question is "Sometimes."

it depends on the bank and sometimes even the type of account.

smaller banks still return the originals. Many of the larger banks keep a digital copy and send a photocopy of your checks. Most have the option of still sending the originals back to you if you pay a nominal fee. A lot of banks send photocopies in miniature and many don't send you anything unless you request it or pay for it.

I have multiple accounts with multiple banks and they all have different policies when it comes to returning cancelled (processed) checks.

More banks are digitizing vs. sending the originals because it's cheaper and more convenient.

They will usually be sent to the mailing address on the account. Not necessarily the address on the check.

BTW I still get original checks sent back to me with no charge from one of my banks. So I don't believe there is any 9/11 regulation prohibiting this. I know it's still an option for a $2 monthly fee at one of my other banks too.

Hope this answers your question.

Answer 4

Most of the banks have switched to a print out now of the checks that have been paid. You no longer get the actually check written back.

This has just come about recently. I just had my one account change to not returning checks as per bank new policy just in 2006. No more checks returned.

: )

Answer 5

Depends on the bank nowadays. Most don't send your checks back (that's why a lot of people use duplicate checks) and they charge to make you a copy unless you are able to print a photo copy online from your account (my bank has this feature). But up until about 4-5 years ago, my checks did come back to me with my monthly statement.

Answer 6

Not anymore. Now, most banks keep an electonic copy and can send you a print (copy) of the checks. The bank will send it to the current address listed on the bank account.

Answer 7

As you said, they were old cheques. Now you have to request a copy of the cheque if for some reason you need it to prove payment. I haven't seen returned cheques with a statement since the early 1970's.

Answer 8

only if you want your canceled checks back. In my case, I told my bank not to send them, they just mean unnecassary clutter for me but i understand for those who own a business they have to run and keep track of all expenses for the W-9 at tax time.