Resources · Before court

If a Check Bounces

Both states add damages if a written demand goes unpaid for 30 days.

Last checked November 1, 2026 · 2 minute read

The short answer

Send a demand by certified mail. If it isn't paid within 30 days, you may be able to claim three times the amount, within limits.

What you can claim

California

The check amount, plus a service charge of up to $25 the first time, or $35 after that.
After a certified-mail demand goes unpaid for 30 days, the check plus three times its amount, at least $100 and no more than $1,500.
Those extras don't apply to a stop-payment on a good faith dispute.

Nevada

After a certified-mail demand goes unpaid for 30 days, the check amount plus damages of three times the amount, at least $100 and at most $500.
A seller can collect a fee of up to $25 on a dishonored check taken for goods or services.

Sources

Keep going

ToolDemand Letter BuilderAnswer a few questions and we'll build your case and your demand letter together, find your court and set your follow-ups. Your answers stay in this browser.Small claimsHow Small Claims Court WorksWhat it is, where to file, and what happens from start to finish.After courtHow to Collect a JudgmentThe court decides who owes what. Getting paid is up to you.

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General information to help you get organized, last checked November 1, 2026. It isn't legal advice, and SueYou isn't a law firm. Laws change and every case is different, so confirm anything important with a lawyer or the court. No lawyer has reviewed this page yet.