What happens if you bounce a check?

Yes, in many states passing a bad check is a crime. For example, in Florida if you bounce a check, even if you did not intent to.

If the bad check was under $150 you could face a misdemeanor fraud charge that can carry a prison sentence up to one year in the county jail and a fine up to $1,000. Now if the check was over $150 then you would be looking at a felony and can carry a fine up to $5,000 and five years in a Florida state prison.

On the civil side, if you are sued by the person or business you passed the bad check, you could be looking at triple damages, plus attorneys fees and court costs. So one bad $100 check could cost you well over $2,000 in fines and damages.

So bottom line, you should never write a bad check, cause it can cost you a lot more then return check fees.