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  Home >> Checks/Money Orders >> Checks You Received  
Bank Holds Paycheck 5 Days: Legal?

What are the regulations for holding checks? My bank will hold my paycheck for five business days before they release the funds if my checking account is low in funds. Is that allowed, and if not, what can I do?



It is allowed because it is a check you received and deposited into your checking account. Some checks get preferential treatment and provide you faster access; these are government issued checks, as an example. Because of the hold, it can be assumed that your paycheck is not from the government.

Ask about direct deposit. It is faster and safer, and in this case, more convenient for you. The bank wants to wait until your paycheck clears before it provides you with the money. Yes, employers have written bad checks to employees in the past, so there is risk. Ask your bank about their Funds Availability Policy, and ask them what you can do to get faster credit for the checks you deposit.

Published on BankingQuestions.com 9/29/10