I operate an LLC out of Ohio. What can I do about customers paying me with fraudulent checks?
April 21, 2025
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Because it's fraud, that's a crime, which they could prosecute. Have you considered no longer accepting checks? You could also sue the customers for their fraud and the money that is owed.
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I operate an LLC out of Ohio. What can I do about customers paying me with fraudulent checks?
I'm sorry to hear about the issue with fraudulent checks. Have you already contacted your bank regarding these fraudulent payments?
Yes, and they closed my account twice because of it. I already have legal issues because of it as well.
Are you looking to take legal action against the customers who paid you with fraudulent checks?
Of course I have to, don’t I?
Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with fraudulently paid checks.
Not that I know of. Ok thank you.
Not yet, I was unaware of the need to.
Yes I have, but the problem is how much work it will cause me to lose. Also, I have noticed a few different tell-tale signs to watch for, even though it’s not a guaranteed way of telling. I have had 3 accounts closed. I have been reported to several different services which is making it hard to get accounts, and there have been numerous things that are hurting me as a business because of it. My overhead has taken a $10,000 hit just this month.
What is the cost of that to get started though? One customer owes a little over $15K and another owes just over $25K.
I know how frustrating collection can be. For a local attorney to begin the process, www.avvo.com is excellent.
The upfront cost could be mitigated if you seek an attorney on contingency. That would mean they are paid out of what you receive. I know this can be stressful, so if there's anything I can assist with or clarify, please let me know.
Welcome and thank you for using Ask a Lawyer. My name is Liz and I'm the attorney who will be assisting with your legal question. I know that dealing with the law can be difficult and confusing, so I’m here to help! So I can best help, did you report the check fraud to the police?
Because it's fraud, that's a crime, which they could prosecute. Have you considered no longer accepting checks? You could also sue the customers for their fraud and the money that is owed.
How much do they owe you?
You would have to hire a lawyer to sue in general civil, which can be a few thousand to begin. However, you could also request the court grant you legal fees. Can I be of help?
