How to Avoid the Fee for a Stopped Payment on a Lost Check
The fee for stopping payment on a lost check might be more expensive than the check itself depending on where you bank. Fees can range up to $35, according to Bankrate.com, and some banks only stop payment on a check for a limited amount of time. These banks make use of a "six-month rule" that allows the bank to process the check six months after you sign a request to stop payment and pay the fee. To ensure continued protection from the bank honoring the check, you must refile a stop payment request and pay another fee. This makes it imperative that you avoid the fee whenever possible.
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Instructions
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Speak with the bank manager and ask him to stop the check without charging you or refund the fee if you already paid it. Often banks will negotiate fees to retain your business.
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Close your checking account. If you lost your checkbook, closing your account can alleviate fees. File a police report on the lost checks and fill out an Affidavit of Forgery if someone other than an authorized user writes a check.
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Select a bank that does not charge a fee to stop payment on a check. While most banks charge this fee, some banks have no fees if you maintain a high balance in your account.
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Tips & Warnings
A bank teller typically does not have the authority to waive bank fees; talk with a manager when negotiating to avoid the charges.
If you close your account, you must arrange with the bank to pay legitimate checks that the bank has not processed yet
