Writing 'bad' checks5 of 8Many banks offer overdraft protection that kicks in if you write a check for more than the balance of your account. But writing a check that you know is no good is illegal. The risk isn't negligible: Kaplan says some people do get prosecuted for writing bad checks."Not only are there criminal penalties involved, but you get put on a list of bad check writers," she says. "A lot of places won't accept your checks, and you may have difficulty opening a bank account again because you've been labeled as a fraudster." Related Articles:CDs and investing newsletterConsumers gain from FinReg3 steps to boost your net worthRelated Links:Find the best MMA ratesAdvice from Dr. DonCalculate your savings goals advertisement
Many banks offer overdraft protection that kicks in if you write a check for more than the balance of your account. But writing a check that you know is no good is illegal. The risk isn't negligible: Kaplan says some people do get prosecuted for writing bad checks.
"Not only are there criminal penalties involved, but you get put on a list of bad check writers," she says. "A lot of places won't accept your checks, and you may have difficulty opening a bank account again because you've been labeled as a fraudster."
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