Reduce Your Risk of Check Fraud

Even with the age of digital convenience, paper checks are still a prime target for fraudsters. From mail theft to forgery, check fraud continues to be a costly and frustrating threat. With a few smart habits and precautionary steps, you can dramatically reduce your risk of falling victim.

ORDERING CHECKS

  • Only print your name and address on your checks. Don’t include your driver’s license, social security number, or home phone number.
  • When you receive a new check order, make sure all of the checks are accounted for. Report missing checks to your bank immediately.
  • Should you fail to receive your order by mail, alert the bank. Checks could have been stolen from your mailbox or lost in transit.
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WRITING CHECKS

  • When writing checks to pay credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number or credit card number on the “Memo” line, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number.
  • Don’t leave blank spaces on the payee and amount lines.
  • Don’t make a check payable to cash. If lost or stolen, the check can be cashed by anyone.
  • Never endorse a check until you are ready to cash or deposit it. The information can be altered if it is lost or stolen.
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RECONCILING AND STORING CHECKS

  • Reconcile your bank statement within 30 days of receipt in order to detect any irregularities. Otherwise, you may become liable for any losses due to check fraud.
  • Unless needed for tax purposes, destroy old, canceled checks, account statements, deposit tickets, and ATM receipts. The personal information on these items may help someone impersonate you and take money from your account.
  • Store your checks, deposit slips, bank statements, and canceled checks in a secure and locked location. Never leave your checkbook in your vehicle or out in the open.
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Notices & Disclosures

Jefferson Bank is chartered under the laws of the State of Texas and by state law is subject to regulatory oversight by the Texas Department of Banking. Any consumer wishing to file a complaint against Jefferson Bank should contact the Texas Department of Banking through one of the means indicated below:

  • In Person or U.S. Mail : 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Suite 300, Austin, Texas 78705-4294
  • Telephone No: (877) 276-5554, Fax No.: (512) 475-1313
  • Email: [email protected]
  • (link sends e-mail)
  • Website: www.dob.texas.gov

Investment and Insurance Products are:

  • Not insured by the FDIC or any Federal Government Agency
  • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate
  • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

Deposit products offered by Jefferson Bank. Member FDIC

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