The maximum bounced check fee varies by state but is typically $20 to $50. Even if there is no limit to the maximum bounced check fee, state law requires that all provisions of a lease agreement be reasonable.
State | Maximum Bounced Check Fee |
---|---|
Alabama | $30 or actual bank fees (whichever is greater) |
Alaska | No statute |
Arizona | $25 + actual bank fees |
Arkansas | $30 + actual bank fees |
California | $25 for first check $35 for each additional check |
Colorado | $20 |
Connecticut | $20 |
Delaware | $40 |
Florida | $25 (checks < $50) $30 (checks for $50 to $300) $40 or 5%, whichever is higher (checks > $300) |
Georgia | $30 or 5% of the check (whichever is greater) + actual bank fees |
Hawaii | $30 |
Idaho | $20 |
Illinois | $25 |
Indiana | No statute |
Iowa | $30 |
Kansas | $30 |
Kentucky | $50 |
Louisiana | $25 or 5% of the check |
Maine | No statute |
Maryland | $35 |
Massachusetts | No statute |
Michigan | $25 (if not paid within 7 business days) $35 (if not paid within 30 days) |
Minnesota | $30 |
Mississippi | $40 |
Missouri | $25 + actual bank fees |
Montana | $30 |
Nebraska | $10 + actual bank fees |
Nevada | No statute |
New Hampshire | No statute |
New Jersey | No statute |
New Mexico | No statute |
New York | $20 |
North Carolina | $35 |
North Dakota | $40 |
Ohio | $30 or 10% of the check (whichever is greater) |
Oklahoma | No statute |
Oregon | $35 + actual bank fees |
Pennsylvania | $50 (unless the actual cost is higher) |
Rhode Island | No statute |
South Carolina | $30 |
South Dakota | $40 |
Tennessee | $30 |
Texas | $20 |
Utah | $20 |
Vermont | $30 |
Virginia | $50 |
Washington | $40 + interest up to 12% |
Washington D.C. | No statute |
West Virginia | $25 |
Wisconsin | No statute |
Wyoming | $30 |
What is a Reasonable Bounced Check Fee?
Based on existing state laws, approximately $20 to $50 is a reasonable amount to charge for a bounced check. Alternatively, landlords can determine a reasonable fee based on the actual fees charged by their bank for the bounced check and other associated costs.