Is it risky to deposit a check that may be fraudulent?

As an RCU Member, you are responsible for the checks you deposit. If you are unsure whether a check is fraudulent, DO NOT deposit it into your account. While RCU may initially accept the check, there is no guarantee that the funds are good. It can take days, or even weeks, for a check to come back as fraudulent. Do not use those funds unless you are confident the check is legitimate.

Here are some ways to determine if a check you have received is valid. 

1. Did the check come with a letter? If so, read the letter carefully. Many fraud scams start with a letter and a check. The letter will have instructions to send money or purchase a money order. Do an internet search to find out if other people have received letters for the same purpose.
2. Research the business that issued the check. You’ll find the name of the business in the top left-hand corner of the check. If you find a listing online, call the business and ask them if they issued the check. Do not call the phone number provided on the check or in the email as it could lead back to the fraudster.
3. If you have trouble finding any information, take the check to the financial institution that issued the check and they will be able to verify whether it’s legitimate.
4. If you have concerns that the check may fraudulent, take it and the accompanying letter into the nearest RCU branch to discuss with a manager. You may also call 1 (800) 479-7028 to discuss this with a Member Service Representative.

Following these steps will help protect you from falling victim to a fraudulent check scam. If a fraudulent check is deposited into your account and you spend the money, you’ll be responsible for the dollar amount when the check is returned.