Do Banks Take Ripped Checks A Comprehensive Guide

Do banks take ripped checks? This question often surfaces when a cherished piece of paper, meant for financial exchange, bears the unfortunate marks of wear and tear. We embark on a journey to unravel the intricacies of check integrity, a matter of paramount importance in the world of banking. This exploration delves into the very fabric of financial transactions, ensuring that even the most delicate of instruments are handled with the utmost care and understanding, much like the gentle currents that grace our Maluku shores.

Understanding the physical condition of a check is fundamental to its acceptance by financial institutions. Banks require checks to be in good physical condition primarily to ensure their authenticity and to facilitate smooth processing through automated systems. Damage, such as rips, tears, or significant creasing, can obscure vital information, compromise security features, and hinder the scanning process, leading to potential delays or outright rejection.

The types of damage that typically render a check unacceptable include tears that affect the payee line, amount, or signature, as well as any damage that makes the check appear altered or fraudulent. Common check damages that banks are likely to reject often involve the truncation of essential data or the compromise of the check’s structural integrity.

Understanding Check Integrity for Banks

So, we’ve established that banks can’t just magically accept any old piece of paper that looks vaguely like a check. There’s a whole process, and a big part of that is ensuring the check itself is in good enough shape to be processed. Think of it like trying to read a book with half the pages ripped out – it’s going to be a real headache, and potentially lead to some serious errors.

For banks, these errors can have significant financial implications, so they’re pretty strict about what they’ll take.The fundamental reason banks require checks to be in good physical condition boils down to two main things: accurate processing and fraud prevention. Automated check processing machines, which are incredibly sophisticated, rely on clear images and intact information to read the necessary details like the amount, payee, and account numbers.

If a check is damaged, these machines might misread information, leading to incorrect transactions, delays, and even financial losses for both the bank and its customers. Beyond automation, a physically compromised check can also raise red flags for potential fraud. A check that looks like it’s been tampered with or altered might be a sign that someone is trying to pull a fast one.

Reasons for Requiring Check Integrity

Banks need to ensure checks are legible and unaltered for efficient and secure processing. This involves verifying signatures, account numbers, and the written and numerical amounts. Damaged checks can obscure these critical details, making them difficult or impossible for both automated systems and human tellers to read accurately. This can lead to processing errors, delays in funds availability, and potential disputes.

Furthermore, the physical integrity of a check is a key element in preventing fraud. A check that appears tampered with, even if the information is still readable, can be a signal that the check has been altered or is counterfeit, prompting further scrutiny.

Types of Damage Rendering a Check Unacceptable

Certain types of damage fundamentally compromise a check’s integrity, making it unsuitable for processing. These damages can range from minor tears to significant mutilation, impacting the ability to verify the check’s authenticity and read its essential information. The key principle is whether the essential elements of the check – the routing number, account number, check number, amount (both written and numerical), and signature – can be clearly identified and verified.

If any of these are missing or unreadable due to damage, the bank will likely reject the check.

Common Check Damages Leading to Rejection

Banks have specific criteria for what constitutes an unacceptable check due to damage. While policies can vary slightly between institutions, there’s a general consensus on the types of physical issues that will lead to rejection. These issues primarily affect the readability of critical information or raise concerns about the check’s authenticity.Here are some common check damages that banks are likely to reject:

Significant Tears or Rips: If a check is torn in such a way that it obscures or removes crucial information like account numbers, routing numbers, or the amount, it will typically be rejected. This includes checks that have been torn into multiple pieces.
Water Damage: When a check is heavily water-damaged, the ink can bleed, making the text illegardible. This also weakens the paper, making it prone to further damage during processing.
Missing Information: Any check missing essential elements, such as the payee’s name, the amount, or the signature of the issuer, cannot be processed. This isn’t strictly physical damage but renders the check incomplete and thus unacceptable.
Mutilation or Alteration: Checks that appear to have been intentionally altered or mutilated to change the information are immediately suspect. This includes evidence of erasure, crossing out, or physically removing parts of the check.
Staple Holes or Punch Marks: While minor staple holes might sometimes be overlooked, significant damage from staples or hole punches that obscure critical information can lead to rejection. These can interfere with scanning equipment.
Fading Ink: If the ink on a check has faded to the point where it’s unreadable by scanning machines or human eyes, it will be rejected. This can happen over time or due to exposure to light or certain chemicals.
Foreign Substance Contamination: Checks that are heavily soiled with dirt, grease, or other substances that obscure information or pose a hygiene risk will likely be rejected.
Excessive Folds: While a folded check can often be processed, if the folds are so severe that they crease and obscure critical data or weaken the check’s structure, it may be rejected.

In essence, if a check looks like it’s been through a paper shredder and then reassembled with tape, or if vital parts of it are simply gone, it’s a pretty safe bet the bank won’t be accepting it. The goal is always to have a clear, intact document that can be reliably read and processed.

Bank Policies on Damaged Checks

So, we’ve touched on the basics of whether banks accept ripped checks and the importance of check integrity. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how banks actually handle these less-than-perfect pieces of paper. It’s not just a free-for-all; there are established policies and procedures in place to protect both the bank and its customers.When a bank teller or processing system encounters a ripped or torn check, it’s not an automatic rejection.

Banks generally have guidelines that consider the severity of the damage and whether the essential information on the check remains legible and intact. The primary goal is to ensure that the check can still be processed accurately and that its authenticity can be verified.

General Guidelines for Damaged Checks

Banks assess damaged checks based on a few key criteria. The most important factor is whether the crucial elements of the check are still readable. This includes the amount in numbers, the amount in words, the payee’s name, the signature of the drawer, the bank’s routing number, and the account number. If any of these critical pieces of information are missing or illegible due to the damage, it significantly complicates the processing.

Minor tears that don’t obscure this information are often manageable.

Consequences of Depositing Severely Damaged Checks

Attempting to deposit a severely damaged check can lead to several outcomes for a customer. The most common is outright rejection of the deposit. The bank may refuse to accept the check, requiring the customer to obtain a replacement from the issuer. In some cases, the bank might attempt to process it, but this can lead to delays. If the check is processed and later found to be unreadable or questionable, it could result in the deposit being reversed, meaning the funds are withdrawn from the customer’s account, potentially leading to overdraft fees if not managed carefully.

Procedures for Verifying Damaged Check Authenticity

Banks employ various methods to verify the authenticity of a damaged check, especially if it appears tampered with or has significant tears.

Manual Review: Tellers or back-office staff will often perform a manual inspection of the check. They compare the physical characteristics of the check against known security features and look for signs of alteration.
Comparison with Signatures: If the signature is smudged or partially torn, the bank may compare it against the signature card on file for the account holder.
Microfilming/Imaging: Banks meticulously image checks as part of their processing. Even if a check is damaged, the images can be used for verification. If the damage occurred after imaging, it can be more easily identified.
Communication with Issuing Bank: In cases of significant doubt, the bank may contact the issuing bank to confirm the validity of the check and its details.
Special Handling Procedures: Some banks have specific protocols for damaged checks, which might involve flagging them for additional scrutiny by a supervisor or a specialized department.

The ultimate decision rests with the bank, which prioritizes fraud prevention and accurate transaction processing.

Customer Procedures for Ripped Checks

Dealing with a ripped check can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s not the end of the world. Banks understand that accidents happen, and they have procedures in place to help you navigate these situations. The key is to act promptly and communicate effectively with your financial institution. This section will walk you through what you need to do if you find yourself with a damaged check, from how to handle it to preventing future mishaps.When a check sustains damage, especially a rip, it can raise concerns about its validity and negotiability.

Banks need to ensure that the check is still a legitimate financial instrument and that all the essential information – like the payee’s name, the amount, and the signature – is intact and legible. Following the right steps will make the process smoother for both you and the bank.

Handling a Ripped Check for Deposit or Cashing

If you have a check that has been torn, there are specific steps you should take to maximize your chances of successfully depositing or cashing it. The integrity of the check is paramount, and how you present it to the bank can make a significant difference.

Assess the Damage: Carefully examine the check to see where it is torn and if any critical information is missing or unreadable. If the check is in multiple pieces, try to reassemble them as best as possible without obscuring any details.
Contact Your Bank First: Before heading to the bank, it’s highly recommended to call their customer service or visit a branch to explain the situation. They can advise you on their specific policy for damaged checks.
Secure the Pieces: If the check is torn into pieces, gently tape them together on a plain white piece of paper. Avoid using excessive tape or tape that obscures any part of the check’s printed information, numbers, or signature. Use clear tape if possible.
Do Not Alter the Check: Do not write on the check, even to indicate it’s torn or to try and mend it with non-transparent materials.
Visit a Branch in Person: For torn checks, it’s generally best to present them at a bank branch rather than attempting to deposit them via an ATM or mobile app, as these methods have stricter requirements for check clarity.
Be Prepared for Verification: The bank teller or manager may need to verify the check’s authenticity. This could involve comparing it to your identification and potentially contacting the issuing bank.
Potential for Reissue: In some cases, if the check is too damaged to be processed, the bank might advise you to contact the person or company who issued the check and request a new one.

Contacting Your Bank About a Damaged Check

Reaching out to your bank is a crucial step when dealing with a damaged check. They are your primary resource for understanding their specific policies and the best course of action.

When contacting your bank, be ready to provide them with essential details. This includes your account information, the name of the payee, the amount of the check, and the name of the issuer. Clearly describe the nature of the damage. Most banks have dedicated customer service lines or a specific department that handles such inquiries. You can often find this contact information on the back of your debit card, on your bank statement, or on the bank’s official website.

It is also beneficial to know the name of the bank that issued the check, as this information might be required. If you are unsure about the process, politely ask for clarification. Banks are generally willing to guide customers through these situations to ensure a satisfactory resolution.

Best Practices for Handling and Preserving Checks

Preventing checks from getting damaged in the first place is the easiest way to avoid these complications. By adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of tearing, bending, or otherwise compromising your checks.

Think of your checks as valuable financial documents. Proper handling ensures they remain in good condition and can be processed smoothly, whether you’re depositing them, cashing them, or mailing them. Here are some best practices:

Use a Checkbook Holder: When carrying your checkbook, keep it in a protective cover or wallet designed to prevent bending and tearing.
Handle with Clean Hands: Always handle checks with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring dirt, grease, or moisture, which can degrade the paper over time.
Avoid Folding Unnecessarily: While checks are designed to be folded for envelopes, avoid excessive folding or creasing, especially in the middle where critical information is printed.
Store Checks Properly: When not in use, store your checks in a safe, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity. A desk drawer or a filing cabinet is usually suitable.
Be Cautious with Mail: If you are mailing a check, ensure it is folded correctly to fit the envelope and that the envelope is securely sealed. Avoid sending checks through mail that is prone to rough handling.
Prompt Deposit or Cashing: Once you receive a check, try to deposit or cash it as soon as possible. The longer a check sits around, the more likely it is to be misplaced or damaged.
Secure Endorsements: When endorsing a check, use a blue or black pen and write clearly in the designated endorsement area. Avoid writing over other printed information on the check.

Alternative Solutions for Damaged Checks

When a check gets a little worse for wear, it doesn’t always mean the end of the road for that payment. Banks and customers have several options to navigate these situations, aiming to ensure the funds can still be accessed or reissued. Understanding these alternatives can save a lot of hassle and potential delays in getting your money.We’ll explore how different deposit methods handle ripped checks, what might go wrong with ATMs, and the process of getting a new check if the original is beyond repair.

It’s all about finding the most practical and secure way forward when faced with a damaged piece of paper representing funds.

Branch Deposits Versus Mobile Deposit Apps for Ripped Checks

Depositing a ripped check presents different challenges and possibilities depending on whether you’re at a bank branch or using a mobile app. Each method has its own set of procedures and potential outcomes.At a bank branch, a teller can often assess the damage firsthand. If the check is torn but the essential information (payee name, amount, signature, bank routing and account numbers) is still legible and present, the teller might be able to accept it.

They have the discretion to decide if the check is still negotiable. They can also guide you on the best course of action, which might involve endorsing it in a specific way or even filling out a deposit slip for you.Mobile deposit apps, on the other hand, rely on image capture. This is where things can get tricky with ripped checks.

The app’s software is designed to capture a clear image of the entire check. If a check is torn in half or significantly damaged, it might be impossible to get a single, clear image that contains all the necessary information. Many apps have specific requirements for image quality and completeness, and a ripped check might fail these automated checks, leading to rejection.

Some apps might allow you to submit photos of the separate pieces, but this is less common and often depends on the bank’s specific policies.

Feature	Bank Branch Deposit	Mobile Deposit App
Human Review	Yes, a teller assesses the check.	Primarily automated, with potential for manual review if flagged.
Handling Ripped Checks	Often accepted if key information is legible and intact. Teller discretion is a factor.	Can be difficult; requires clear, complete images of all essential information. Rejection is more likely if torn.
Essential Information	Teller can often piece together or verify information visually.	App requires all fields (amount, payee, signature, bank details) to be clearly visible in the captured image(s).
Outcome	Higher chance of successful deposit if damage is minor and information is visible.	Higher chance of rejection if the tear obscures critical details or prevents a clear, single image.

ATM Deposit Difficulties with Ripped Checks

Using an ATM to deposit a ripped check can be problematic because ATMs are automated systems designed for pristine documents. They typically scan the check to verify its details and often have strict requirements for the physical condition of the item being deposited.ATMs usually have a slot where you insert the check. If the check is ripped, it might not feed through the machine correctly, potentially causing a jam.

Even if it does feed, the scanner inside the ATM might not be able to read the information properly if the tear has damaged the magnetic ink characters (MICR line) at the bottom of the check or obscured other crucial details like the amount or payee’s name. Many ATMs are programmed to reject checks that are folded, creased, or torn, as these can interfere with the scanning process and lead to errors.

ATMs are designed for efficiency with standard documents; significant damage can prevent successful processing.

Unlike a bank teller, an ATM cannot exercise judgment or manually tape pieces together. If the check is too damaged to be scanned and read by the ATM’s internal systems, the deposit will likely be declined, and the check will be returned to you. This often means you’ll need to seek an alternative solution, such as visiting a branch or contacting the issuer.

Requesting a Replacement Check from the Issuer

If a check is too severely damaged to be deposited through any method, or if you’re concerned about its integrity, the most reliable solution is to request a replacement check from the person or entity that originally issued it. This process ensures you receive a fresh, undamaged instrument for your funds.The first step is to contact the issuer directly. This could be an individual, a company, or a government agency.

You’ll need to explain that the original check was damaged and is unusable. Be prepared to provide details about the original check, such as the check number, the date it was issued, and the amount. The issuer will likely ask you to confirm your payee information to ensure the replacement check is made out correctly.Depending on their policies, the issuer might require you to return the damaged check before they issue a new one.

This is a security measure to prevent the original check from being cashed or deposited if it’s found later. They might ask you to shred it and confirm it’s destroyed, or they might provide instructions for mailing it back to them. Some issuers may simply void the original check in their system and issue a new one without requiring the return of the damaged document, especially if the damage is significant and obvious.

Contacting the issuer and explaining the situation is the most direct path to obtaining a replacement check for a severely damaged original.

The timeframe for receiving a replacement check can vary. Some issuers can process and mail a new check within a few business days, while others might take longer, especially if they have more complex verification processes. It’s advisable to follow up with the issuer if you haven’t received the replacement within the expected timeframe.

So, do banks take ripped checks? Probably not, unless you want them to think you wrestled a bear for your funds. If your checks are looking a bit too “well-loved,” maybe it’s time to get fresh ones. For that, you can learn how to order checks from capital one bank. Just don’t rip the new ones in celebration, or you’ll be back to square one with those pesky ripped checks!

Legal and Security Aspects

Alright, so we’ve talked about the practical side of ripped checks – what customers can do, and what banks might offer. But now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of why banks are often so cautious about these damaged pieces of paper. It’s not just about inconvenience; there are some serious legal and security implications at play. Think of it as the bank’s immune system protecting itself and its customers from potential fraud and financial chaos.From a bank’s perspective, accepting a ripped check isn’t just about a torn piece of paper; it’s about the integrity of the entire transaction.

The primary concern is fraud. A damaged check, especially if torn in a way that obscures key information, could be a red flag for manipulation. Imagine a check where the amount is partially ripped off, or the payee’s name is smudged beyond recognition. This opens the door to potential alterations, making it harder for the bank to verify the legitimacy of the transaction.

Furthermore, handling damaged documents can lead to processing errors, which, while not always malicious, can still cause significant financial headaches for both the customer and the bank.

Security Risks Associated with Accepting Ripped Checks, Do banks take ripped checks

The security risks for banks when dealing with ripped checks are multifaceted, primarily revolving around the potential for fraud and operational errors. A torn check can obscure critical information, making it difficult to authenticate the transaction. This includes the amount, the payee, the signature, and even the account number. Such ambiguities create vulnerabilities that fraudsters can exploit.Here’s a breakdown of the key security risks:

Fraudulent Alteration: A ripped check might allow for the alteration of the amount, payee, or other details without being immediately obvious. For instance, if the amount is torn, a fraudster could potentially change it to a higher figure.
Counterfeiting and Forgery: Damage can make it harder to detect sophisticated counterfeiting. Security features on checks, such as microprinting or watermarks, might be compromised by tears, making them less effective as deterrents.
Identity Theft: In some cases, a ripped check might contain personal identifiable information that, if mishandled or improperly verified, could be used for identity theft.
Processing Errors: Even without malicious intent, torn checks can jam machinery, lead to misreads by optical character recognition (OCR) systems, and require manual intervention, increasing the chance of human error during processing. This can result in incorrect debits or credits.
Compliance Issues: Banks have strict regulations to follow regarding the processing of financial instruments. Accepting significantly damaged checks could lead to non-compliance if proper verification procedures aren’t followed.

Regulations and Internal Policies Guiding Bank Decisions

Banks operate under a stringent regulatory framework and also maintain their own detailed internal policies to govern how they handle financial instruments, including damaged checks. These guidelines are designed to ensure legal compliance, mitigate risks, and maintain operational efficiency.The primary federal law that underpins check processing in the United States is the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). Specifically, Article 3 of the UCC deals with Negotiable Instruments, which includes checks.

While the UCC doesn’t explicitly state “you must accept all ripped checks,” it does Artikel the requirements for a check to be considered a valid negotiable instrument. A key concept is that the instrument must be “unconditional promise or order to pay,” and if damage renders it conditional or illegible, its negotiability can be questioned.Internally, banks develop comprehensive policies that often go beyond the minimum legal requirements.

These policies are typically informed by:

Risk Assessment: Banks continuously assess the risks associated with various transaction types and document conditions. Ripped checks are often flagged as higher risk.
Operational Procedures: Detailed step-by-step procedures dictate how tellers, back-office staff, and automated systems should handle checks with varying degrees of damage.
Compliance Department Directives: The bank’s compliance department ensures that all policies adhere to federal and state banking laws and regulations, such as those from the Federal Reserve and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Customer Service Standards: While security is paramount, banks also aim to provide good customer service. Policies often try to balance risk mitigation with facilitating legitimate transactions for customers.

For example, a bank might have a policy that allows a teller to accept a check with a minor tear if the essential information is still legible and the customer is known. However, a check torn into multiple pieces, or where the amount is unreadable, would almost certainly be rejected or require specific escalation procedures.

Importance of Check Security Features and How Damage Compromises Them

Modern checks are equipped with a variety of security features designed to prevent counterfeiting and fraud. These features are crucial for verifying the authenticity of a check and ensuring that it’s a legitimate financial instrument. Damage, particularly tears or significant wear, can compromise these features, making it harder for both bank personnel and automated systems to confirm the check’s validity.Here are some common check security features and how damage can affect them:

Watermarks: Many checks have subtle watermarks, similar to currency, that are visible when held up to the light. A tear across a watermark can make it difficult to discern, potentially masking an attempted counterfeit.
Microprinting: This involves printing extremely small text, often too small to be reproduced by standard copiers, in areas like borders or signatures. A rip can obliterate this microprinting, rendering it useless as a security verification.
Security Threads: Some checks incorporate security threads, which are visible when held to light or may only be visible under UV light. Tears can damage or remove these threads.
Holograms and Thermochromic Ink: More advanced security features include holograms that change appearance with viewing angle, or thermochromic ink that disappears when rubbed. Damage can scratch, tear, or otherwise obscure these features, making them ineffective.
Unique Paper Stock: The paper itself often has a specific feel and composition that’s difficult to replicate. Significant damage can alter the texture or even lead to the loss of paper sections, making comparison to genuine stock more challenging.

When these security features are compromised due to damage, it increases the bank’s exposure to risk. The inability to verify these features means the bank must rely more heavily on other, potentially less reliable, methods of authentication, or simply refuse the transaction to avoid potential losses. This is why banks often have a policy of caution when presented with checks that have undergone significant physical degradation.

Illustrative Scenarios of Damaged Checks

Let’s dive into some real-world examples of how checks can get damaged and how banks typically navigate these situations. Understanding these scenarios can help you anticipate potential issues and know what to expect.We’ll look at a few different levels of damage, from minor tears to significant destruction, and how the bank’s policies and your actions can influence the outcome.

Slightly Torn but Legible Check

Imagine you’ve got a check that’s been folded a bit too enthusiastically, resulting in a small tear across a corner. The good news is, as long as the essential information – the date, payee, amount in numbers and words, and the signature – remains perfectly clear and readable, most banks will still process it without a hitch. They have sophisticated scanning equipment that can handle minor imperfections.

The key here is legibility. If a critical piece of data is obscured by the tear, that’s when problems arise.

Check Ripped into Multiple Pieces

Now, consider a scenario where a check has been accidentally shredded or ripped into several distinct pieces. For instance, perhaps it fell into a shredder or was caught in a strong gust of wind and tore apart. In such cases, unless all the pieces are meticulously collected and can be reassembled to clearly show all the essential banking information (payee, amount, date, signature), it’s highly unlikely a bank will accept it for deposit or cashing.

The risk of fraud or misinterpretation of the amount is simply too high. Banks need to be absolutely certain of the check’s authenticity and its exact details.

Customer Successfully Deposits Moderately Damaged Check

Let’s craft a situation where a customer, let’s call her Sarah, encounters a moderately damaged check. Sarah received a check from a client, but it got a bit damp in her bag, causing the ink to smudge slightly, and a small portion of the bottom edge is frayed. Knowing that banks can be particular, Sarah immediately took a photo of the check with her smartphone using her bank’s mobile deposit app.

She then carefully reviewed the digital image to ensure all the details were still clear. She also noted the original check’s condition.When she went to her bank branch to deposit it, she proactively informed the teller about the smudging and fraying. She explained that she had already taken a photo and that the information was legible. The teller examined the physical check, confirmed that the payee, amount, date, and signature were all discernible despite the minor damage, and then checked the mobile deposit photo for comparison.

Because Sarah was transparent and the damage didn’t compromise any critical information, the teller was able to process the deposit. This illustrates how clear communication and ensuring legibility are crucial for handling even moderately damaged checks.

Wrap-Up

In navigating the often-unforeseen circumstances of damaged financial documents, a clear understanding of bank policies and customer procedures is essential. While a slightly torn check may still find its way through the system, a severely compromised one necessitates a more deliberate approach, often involving direct communication with the issuing bank or the check’s originator. By adhering to best practices for check preservation and understanding the available alternative solutions, individuals can effectively manage situations involving ripped checks, ensuring their financial transactions proceed without undue complication.

The security of financial instruments remains a cornerstone of banking, and vigilance in their handling is a shared responsibility.

Question & Answer Hub: Do Banks Take Ripped Checks

What if my check is ripped in half?

If your check is ripped in half, it’s best to contact your bank directly. Some banks may accept it if both halves are presented and all critical information remains legible and intact. However, it’s highly probable that they will ask you to obtain a replacement check from the issuer.

Can I tape a ripped check back together?

While some banks might accept a check with clear tape if the damage is minor and all information is legible, it’s not a guaranteed solution. Taping can sometimes obscure information or be perceived as an attempt to alter the check, leading to rejection. It’s always safer to consult your bank.

Will a mobile deposit app accept a ripped check?

Mobile deposit apps often have stricter image quality requirements. A ripped check, even if taped, may result in an unclear image that the app cannot process. It is generally advisable to deposit such checks in person at a bank branch or to request a replacement.

What information is considered “critical” on a check?

Critical information on a check typically includes the payee’s name, the written and numerical amounts of the check, the date, and the signature of the issuer. Any damage that obscures or makes these details unreadable will likely lead to the check being rejected.

How long does it take to get a replacement check?

The time it takes to receive a replacement check varies depending on the issuer. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few business days to a couple of weeks. It’s best to inquire directly with the person or entity that issued the original check.