Returned Check Processing Fee

1. Introduction

State Agencies are authorized to charge a processing fee for returned checks. The purpose is to ensure the State of North Carolina is reimbursed for costs associated with the collection of returned checks.

In accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 25-3-506, East Carolina University shall charge a processing fee of thirty-five dollars ($35) for a paper or electronic check on which payment has been refused.

2. Applicability

This regulation applies to all check payments, both paper and electronic, received by the University. The designated bank of deposit returns check payments for numerous reasons, including, but not limited to:

• 2.1. Insufficient funds;
• 2.2. Closed account;
• 2.3. Invalid account numbers;
• 2.4. Frozen account;
• 2.5. Inability to locate account;
• 2.6. Non-transaction account;
• 2.7. Uncollected funds;
• 2.8. Other reasons as indicated by the bank when the check is returned.

3. Departmental Responsibilities

Upon notification and receipt of the copies of the returned items from the University Cashier’s Office, departments are directed to attempt collection on the returned items, including the $35 processing fee.

Departments must follow the University Cash Management Plan and Accounts Receivable Regulation when performing collection procedures.