Each day, thousands of checks are written to pay for goods or services - yet hundreds are not honored when presented at the bank. Hard working merchants and others go unpaid.

 If you or your business is the victim of a bad check, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office may be able to help you get the money you are owed.

Our Check Enforcement Program has a mission to pursue bad check writers and make them pay up - even if it means taking them to court. The program is largely funded by fees paid by bad check writers, making this a completely FREE service to victims and merchants.

If You Receive a Bad Check
Send a Demand for Payment letter to the bad check writer; Form A  if the amount is less than $5,000 and Form B  if the amount is $5,000 or more. If you do not receive payment within the specified time frame, fill out a Victim Information Form (PDF) (first time victims only), attach the bad check to a completed Submittal/Witness Form (PDF), and mail or deliver these materials to our office:

MCAO Check Enforcement Program
225 West Madison Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: 602-372-7300
Fax: 602-506-4329

If there is sufficient evidence to prove that a crime was committed, we will take action against the bad check writer which could result in a criminal court summons and/or a warrant for arrest. Penalties for issuing a bad check include up to 6 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus full restitution.

For more information, download our Check Enforcement Guidebook (PDF) or check out our list of frequently asked questions. You can also contact us directly at 602-372-7300 or via email.

Merchants
Check out our CHECK List to Protect Yourself Against Bad Check Writers.

Bad Check Writers
View the Check Writer FAQ for more information on how to proceed.