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.
