Expert: Neil Wileman - 12/12/2005

Question

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Followup To
Question -
I have recieved a cheque in my name to my address from someone unknown. Its from the bank of 'Smile the internet bank' with the name 'Mr M Barrett' on it. Do i cash it?
Answer -
Tracey,

If the cheque is not made payable to you then I would sugget that you contact Smile on 0870 843 2265. If you attempt to cash the cheque you could be guilty of fraud or theft. Remember that the cheque is traceable through the banking system, so they will find who cashed it.

Regards

Neil


Thanks for your reply.

The cheque has my namne on it. If i put it in to the bank but dont spend it will i still be guilty of fraud or theft?

Answer
Tracey,

You didnt make that clear in your first message to me. If the cheque is payable to you then there is nothing wrong in paying it into your account. If you are happy to sit on the funds then proceed with that method. If there is still a problem then I would still suggest you contact the issuing bank. They will in turn contact the customer to verify the cheque is correct.

Regards

Neil