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Demand Letter Template for Bad Check (Returned / Bounced Check)

A demand letter for a bad check formally notifies the person who wrote the check that it was returned unpaid, demands reimbursement, and gives them an opportunity to make it right before you pursue legal remedies. Under Texas Business & Commerce Code Section 3.506, the holder of a returned check may recover the face amount plus a processing fee of up to $30. If you sue and prevail, you may also be entitled to recover attorney's fees under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 38.001. This template is a general starting point — you are responsible for filling in accurate details before sending.

Disclaimer: This is a general-purpose template for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. You are responsible for ensuring the content is accurate and appropriate for your situation.

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demand-letter-bad-check.docx

[Your Full Name] [Your Street Address] [Your City, State, ZIP] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email] June 14, 2026 [Check Writer Name] [Check Writer Street Address] [Check Writer City, State, ZIP] RE: NOTICE OF DISHONORED CHECK — Check #[Check Number] — Amount: $[Check Amount] Dear [Check Writer Name], This is formal notice that check #[Check Number], dated [Check Date], in the amount of $[Check Amount], was returned by your financial institution unpaid on [Return Date]. Reason given: [Return Reason]. You are hereby demanded to make full payment of the following amounts within 10 days of this notice: Original check amount: $[Check Amount] Returned check service charge: $[Service Charge] Payment must be received by June 28, 2026 in certified funds (money order or cashier's check). Personal checks will not be accepted. Please remit payment to: [Your Full Name] [Your Street Address], [Your City, State, ZIP] PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: Under Texas Business & Commerce Code Section 3.506, you are liable for the face amount of the check plus a processing fee of up to $30. If this matter proceeds to civil court and judgment is entered against you, you may also be liable for my attorney's fees and court costs under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 38.001. If you believe this notice was sent in error, contact me immediately at [Your Phone Number]. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] June 14, 2026 Enclosures: Copy of Dishonored Check, Bank Return Notice

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When to Use This Template

You received a check from someone that was returned by their bank as unpaid (insufficient funds, account closed, stop payment ordered)
You want to formally notify the check writer and give them a deadline to pay before taking further action
You want to preserve your right to recover the check amount plus the processing fee under Texas Business & Commerce Code Section 3.506

After You Send the Letter

1Send this letter via certified mail with return receipt requested — this documents that proper notice was given and when.
2Keep the original returned check and the bank's return notice. Do not destroy these documents.
3If the check writer does not pay by the deadline, you may file a claim in Texas Justice Court for the check amount plus the processing fee under Texas Business & Commerce Code Section 3.506. If you prevail in court, you may also recover attorney's fees under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 38.001.
4Flash Justice can help you prepare your small claims court filing if the demand letter is ignored.

If Your Demand Letter Is Ignored

Flash Justice helps you prepare your Texas small claims court filing — the petition, defendant information, and supporting documentation — so you can file with your local Justice Court.

Start Your Court Filing

Frequently Asked Questions

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