In 2007, DA Conley launched Suffolk County’s Bad Check Restitution Program.

The program aims to provide assistance to merchants who are victimized by consumers who pay with a check that is later returned due to insufficient funds. The primary goal of the program is twofold – first, to obtain restitution for the business, and second, to deter the check-writing customer from re-offending.

The program requires that bad check writers who are reported to the program pay full restitution to the victimized merchant and also attend a special educational class on personal money management at his or her own expense. If the bad check writer refuses to comply with these requirements, his or her case is then reviewed by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution and may lead to formal larceny charges. This self-sufficient program operates at no additional cost to taxpayers or the merchant.

To help keep bad check losses to a minimum, Conley recommends that merchants take the following precautions with every check transaction:

• Ask to see the customer’s driver’s license and record the number on the front of the check, and accept only a valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
• Record both the individual’s home and work telephone numbers on the front of the check
• Do not accept a “post-dated” or “two-party” checks. Never agree to “hold” a check for any length of time.
• Be wary of checks that only have a P.O. Box address. If you do receive a check with a P.O. Box, be sure to record the customer’s complete address on the front of the check.
• Do not accept “counter” or temporary checks printed by the bank for a new account.
• Make sure the customer signs the check in your presence – do not accept previously signed checks.
• Accept checks for the amount of purchase only – avoid giving cash back.
• Do not accept out-of-state checks – these are very difficult to recover if returned by the bank.
• Trust your instincts – if something seems wrong, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to suggest an alternate method of payment such as cash, credit card or bank check card.

Merchants in Boston, Chelsea, Revere and Winthrop can learn more about the Bad Check Restitution Program online or from calling (877) 208-7531.