Check 21 is a new law that allows financial institutions to substitute a machine-readable image of a check (a "substitute check") for an original check. This image is used for collection or return rather than the original paper check. This law went into effect on October 28th, 2004.

Check 21 was created to speed up collection times, reduce collection costs, and increase security of member financial information. By removing the transportation of paper checks via ground or air, your information is more secure, and your checks will clear faster.

To learn more about Check 21, we have several brochures available to you online and in our branches. The Substitute Check Policy Disclosure for California and the Check 21 Quick Reference Guide provide specific information about the law and how it impacts you, and can also be found on our "Disclosures" page.

If a Substitute Check was improperly charged to your account and you have suffered a loss, you can submit a claim by using the appropriate Substitute Check Recredit Claim Form, available on our "Apply Now" page.