Check 21

Check clearing is changing. In the past most checks had to be physically transported from the place the check was presented to the bank the check was written on. This was expensive and time-consuming. The Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (now known as Check 21) provides a new method of handling these checks. It allows banks to create a substitute check from a digital image of the original check. Click here to view a sample check.

As of October 28, 2004, every bank will be required to accept substitute checks just as they accept original paper checks. You will see these substitute checks with your account statement. They contain all of the information that the original contained.

Check 21 includes several safeguards for consumers. By speeding up the check clearing process check fraud can be discovered more quickly. Also, a bank that creates a substitute check must warrant that it is accurate and produced in accordance with standards for quality.

For more information on Check 21 check out our FAQ page and our Policy Statement or contact any of our branch locations.

Check 21 | Sample check | FAQ | Policy statement