Here’s some of the most important information we can give you to keep you off ChexSystems — don’t write bad checks. Don’t do it on purpose. Don’t do it by accident.

It’s easy to say this, but sometimes it can be hard to avoid writing a bad check. In this article (the fourth in our series on checkwriting and checking account management), we discuss how to avoid writing bad checks and what to do if you make a mistake and need to rectify your situation.

Can you ever imagine a situation when it is a good thing to write a bad check? Probably not, and you would be right. If you are responsible enough to have a checking account you need to be responsible enough to avoid writing bad checks. But guess what? Many people cannot escape this trap and constantly find themselves writing bad checks.

The following tips should help you avoid this situation:

1. Before you write a check or head to the ATM for a withdrawal make sure you have enough money in your account. You can keep track easily enough if you accurately use your check register. Don’t forget to include all transactions in addition to checks such as ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases.

2. Beware of bank fees. This is one area that gets people in trouble all the time. If you are tight on money one fee, no matter how small, could push you into writing a bad check. Make sure you are always on the lookout for bank fees, and that you record them if they appear.

3. Check your register regularly to ensure its accuracy. You can cross reference your information by calling your bank or looking over your statement. If your register is not accurate it is only a matter of time until you write a bad check.

4. Have you ever looked into the benefits of overdraft protection? This will cost extra but in the long run it can save you a lot of money if you happen to make a mistake.

If you write a bad check you are going to cause several headaches for yourself. Not only will the bank charge you a fee, but the individual or company you are paying will also need a new check. And if you don’t get it to them in time there is a chance that you will incur a late fee. Instead of dealing with all this use the tips above to avoid writing bad checks.

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Related ChexSystems Banking Information:

1. How To Write A Check
2. Want to Avoid ChexSystems Problems? Don’t Do These 14 Things.
3. Tips for Properly Using and Cashing a Check
4. Writing a Check: Don’t forget any Details
5. Why is it Important to Stay Off the ChexSystems List?

Tagged as: bad checks, off chexsystems