- Why was my check returned for Altered Item?
- Why was the deposit returned as Altered Item?
- What does Altered Item mean?
- What do Altered Item messages mean?

Altered Item / Fictitious Item -

A check returned stamped Altered, or stamped Fictitious item does not match the account holder's records or the bank's records as far as the amount, date or terms of the check and is being returned in dispute of its validity. 

This can be something as simple as someone writing a check for $125.99 and then changing the 5 in 125 to a 6 to make the check $126.50.  Any alteration can void the check at the discursion of the bank.  A cross out, alteration or change should be initialed by the account holder, but does not always stop returns, especially with high dollar items.  This stamp,

Altered Item, or Fictitious item can also come with forged money orders, forged cashier's checks, and forged traveler's checks.

 

 

 

Protection:
Use services that will check the validity of your checks and drafts before you deposit the items. If you don't know how to contact the bank once the check is returned, call the bank phone number. You can use RoutingTool to verify the Routing Number or BetterCheck to verify the check.

       

               - Reasons For Return Main Page
               - Not Sufficient Funds
               - Uncollected Funds Hold
               - Stop Payment
               - Closed Account
               - Unable to Locate Account
               -   Frozen Account
               - Refer to Maker
               - Not Authorized