In most states, bad check writers are prosecuted by the DA (District Attorney's) office. A merchant is required to notify you of the bad check and demand payment before he can turn the matter over to the DA's office. If the address and telephone number on your check is incorrect, it can hinder the merchant's attempts to contact you. There are other ways to easily find out if you have a bad check out.
Check your bank statement (online or paper statement) to see whether or not there is an insufficient funds fee. Generally, when there is an insufficient funds fee, the name of the merchant will also be listed. If you paid the merchant by check, the insufficient funds fee indicates that you have a bad check out.
Contact your bank. Ask the bank representative to verify whether or not you have any returned checks. The bank representative will likely be able to tell you the check number, the name of the merchant and the amount of the bounced check.
Contact the merchant directly. The merchant will be able to tell you whether or not your check bounced.
Avoid contacting or visiting the DA's office. If you have a warrant out for the bad check, you will be arrested. If you believe a bad check has been turned over to the DA, you should speak with an attorney. Allow the attorney to petition the DA's office on your behalf.
