Cheque bounce: notice and time limits
If a cheque is returned for insufficient funds, a criminal complaint lies under section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, but the time limits are strict: notice within 30 days, 15 days to pay, then a complaint within one month.
What to do
- Present the cheque within three months of its date.
- When it bounces, take the bank’s written return memo stating the reason.
- Within 30 days of receiving the memo, send a written demand notice to the drawer (registered post, keep the receipt).
- If payment is not made within 15 days of the notice, file the complaint before the Magistrate within the following month, normally where your bank branch is.
- On conviction the punishment can be up to two years or a fine up to twice the cheque amount; the court may also refer the matter to a Lok Adalat for settlement.
What to bring
- The original cheque and the bank return memo
- Copy of the notice and the postal receipt / delivery report
- Proof of the transaction: invoice, agreement, chats
Official links
Case status (e-Courts) (opens in a new window)services.ecourts.gov.inFree legal aid (DLSA, 15100) (opens in a new window)uttarakhand.nalsa.gov.in
Advocates for this
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Please note
This is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different; if needed, talk to an advocate or the District Legal Services Authority (free, 15100). Rudrapur City does not recommend any advocate.
This guide was checked on 18 September 2026.