How does check verification work at retail stores?

Question

My checkbook was recently stolen and before I could close my account, dozens of checks were written. I am in the process of clearing up this mess, but in the meantime my old checking account is frozen, overdrawn, and closed to further activity.

I was able to open a new account after I explained the problem, even though ChexSystems had me in their system as having a ton of bounced checks.

Will I be able to write checks to stores that use check verification systems? Or, even though I have a new account number at a different bank, will they cross-reference my name/driver's license number/phone number and not take my checks?

BTW, I don't use a debit card for two reasons: (1) most banks in my area still charge a monthly fee just to put a debit card on an account (at the same time, I get unlimited free checks), and (2) many of the businesses I shop at locally charge a fee to use a debit/atm card as payment. I know this is absurdly antiquated, but I live in a small, very rural, very backwards area when it comes to this sort of thing. Given this, I haven't yet sprung for a debit card because I refuse to pay extra to have/use it!

BTW, Consumer... check verification does NOT verify funds in the account. That only happens when the merchant electronically debits the check. The verification I am talking about is when the merchant uses a system that checks your information against a database - they ONLY verify that the account is open and not overdrawn. What I want to know is: what information do they use to verify? Do they just use the routing/account number, or do they use your name/driver's license #/address/etc?

Also, as an FYI, I did try to use a check yesterday at a retailer and it was rejected. Usually it gives a reason for the denial, such as, bounced checks are on the system. This time, it didn't give any reason - the store was baffled. Guess I will have to call the check verification system to get an answer on this one.

Answer 1

It scans the account number for previous reports of problems .

Your new account should be OK , but checks are so antiquated .
I'm down to maybe 6 a year , Why are you writing them ?
Unless it is some very small business ( like Our water company ) that cannot process credit or debit ,
Skip using checks , they are more dangerous and totally cumbersome .

Use your debit card , and NEVER put your PIN number on it .

Answer 2

Personal Check Verification

Answer 3

Get a No Cost Background Check Scan at https://bitly.im/aOhul

Its a sensible way to start. The site allows you to do a no cost scan simply to find out if any sort of data is in existence. A smaller analysis is done without cost. To get a detailed report its a modest payment.

You may not realize how many good reasons there are to try and find out more about the people around you. After all, whether you're talking about new friends, employees, doctors, caretakers for elderly family members, or even significant others, you, as a citizen, have a right to know whether the people you surround yourself with are who they say they are. This goes double in any situation that involves your children, which not only includes teachers and babysitters, but also scout masters, little league coaches and others. Bottom line, if you want to find out more about someone, you should perform a background check.

Answer 4

Gob: Check verification is for the sole purpose of verifying if there is any money in the account....Period. There is not a company out there today who gives a hoot about your problems, especially with past checking accounts. If you have money in the account you are good to go. As far as using a debit card, it all depends on the bank fees associated with it. Some banks charge a hidden fee and some charge by the transaction. They are gettitng as bad as credit cards. I would strongly suggest you read the "terms and conditions" that accompany most agreements, including checking accounts. Lots of luck

Answer 5

I have been a retail manager for 3 years and I would have to say it depends on the job. If you are applying for a job that requires selling experience, which I am assuming because that's usually what cell Phone companies do, then I would assume they will check. If you lie and say that you've worked for another cell phone company, then they probably won't check, but they will find out in the interview when they ask about your previous employment.