FAQs on Section 138 of NI Act: What happens once your cheque is dishonoured?

 Bouncing a cheque can transform into a criminal offence under the Negotiable Instruments Act, creating legal repercussions. The cheque must be issued for a lawful debt and returned unpaid due to insufficient funds. After dishonour, the payee has 30 days to issue a notice, and the drawer has 15 days to respond. If not repaid, the payee can file a complaint within one month of the final notice. Bouncing a cheque can transform into a criminal offence under the Negotiable Instruments Act, creating legal repercussions. The cheque must be issued for a lawful debt and returned unpaid due to insufficient funds. After dishonour, the payee has 30 days to issue a notice, and the drawer has 15 days to respond. If not repaid, the payee can file a complaint within one month of the final notice.