Check 21, also know as the "The Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act, will take affect October 28, 2004. This new federal law will recognize a new payment document called a "substitute check" that will be used for clearing and settlement.

Check 21 will permit faster processing of checks by allowing financial institutions to convert your checks to electronic images. These images are then processed electronically through the banking system. A substitute check is a legally sanctioned document with all of the rights and obligations as the original check written from your checkbook. These substitute checks contain all of the information of a original check including the endorsement. To view a sample of a substitute check, click here.

Questions that you may have on Check 21:

Q. Will I still see my check images OnLine if it is a substitute check?

A. Yes

Q. What happens to my check after it is imaged?

A. Typically, original checks are destroyed once the check is imaged. There are no requirements governing the retention of the original check.

Q. Will Check 21 affect the amount of time that my check clears in?

A. Yes, your checks will clear the system much faster than before.

Q. Is there any way to protect myself from a check being returned due to non-sufficient funds.

A. Yes, Centris offers piece-of-mind with Line of Credit loans.