Help! Problem with Host's Check Returned

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses issues related to hosts' checks being returned and the challenges faced by consultants in managing these situations. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies for handling bounced checks and the financial implications that arise from them.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration over receiving a returned check from a host and the difficulties in recovering the funds.
  • Another participant shares their experience of having hosts write checks directly to them to mitigate risks associated with bounced checks.
  • Several users mention that they prefer to have guests write checks to them rather than to the host to limit potential losses.
  • One participant discusses the importance of having all payments in hand before submitting a show, citing it as a precautionary measure.
  • Another participant recounts successfully resolving a bounced check by contacting the bank to verify funds before cashing it.
  • Some participants suggest direct communication with the host to resolve payment issues, with one noting that hosts may feel embarrassed and be willing to make amends.
  • One user mentions the possibility of legal action if a host refuses to pay for a bounced check, although they are unsure of the process.
  • Another participant highlights the emotional toll of dealing with such situations, expressing a desire to continue in the business despite challenges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to handling hosts' checks, with some participants advocating for direct payments to consultants while others share experiences of managing checks from hosts. No clear consensus emerges on a single best practice.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences over varying lengths of time in their consulting roles, indicating that issues with bounced checks can occur sporadically but have significant financial implications.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing similar challenges with hosts' checks may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant to their own situations.

pamperedkay
Messages
28
Does anyone have a problem with a hosts' check being returned? This is my 2nd one in the 3 1/2 years of doing this. THe problem is they have their products but I'm stuck holding the bag. I don't keep that much in my account to cover things. No the past host won't answer my calls and I can't send anything via PP until this is cleared. I have to send anything in by money order. Which when the end of the month of coming its so much more difficult. The last time this happened I still after 2 years have not recooped it all. Any suggestions?? :confused: :confused:
 
I am not sure what the best advice here would be, but I'm curious...are you having the host give you one check for the entire show?

I always thought that was risky, and so I have each customer write the checks to me. Also, except on rare occasions when I have a repeat host or know the host well, I will not submit a show until I have all money in hand. It's just too risky, and like you, I don't keep much of a buffer in the account to cover any unpaid orders.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
I usually do have the host give me one check just because alot of their outside orders write their checks to them. I have started on hosts that I'm not real sure about having each guest write their checks to me. That way if one bounces its only a small bit. I guess I'll have to start doing that on all. Its so discouraging!! :(
 
Kay,
I give this flyer to each of my hosts, kitchen or catalog, to help with outside orders. Maybe this will help!
 

Attachments

Rebecca , i love the tips flyer ! Iam going to use that if you dont mind !! It is great !! Thank you ! :)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Thanks Rebecca. I'll try using that. I'm ready to try anything or just give up. I don't want to do that because I love the businesstoo much. I'm ready for any suggestions. :rolleyes:
 
Is it a bounced check? Did they stick you with extra fees? I would think if that was the case then you would have to get the money from the host- its the host's check right? Can you go to her house and talk to her? Maybe you can send her a letter explaining the situation and show her how much money she owes you now. If she's not willing to pay for it I've heard of consultants taking some kind of legal action but I'm not exactly sure how to go about doing that. Normally I think hosts are embarassed and very willing to make amends. I know if it were me I would be bugging the host every day, yes bugging because I can't afford to take a big loss because of a dead beat hostess. I wouldn't be mean or rude or anything like that but I would definately make sure they know I'm not going to stop approaching them about it until they pay. I hope everything works out for you. I know that must be very frustrating.
 
I had one check come back and called the bank on the check and they had the money in so I ran to the bank to get it cashed. It was the only one in almost 4 years (knock on wood), but I do have the orders in checks made payable to me. The check I had was a customer so I also used the host to check up and get it resolved. Call the bank of were the check is drawn and ask them to see if there is enough funds in it to cover the check you have and want to cash. Then give them the info and they will say yes or not at this time. It can't hurt. (was in banking 20 years, Past life). Good Luck. ;)
 
bounced checkDo you have the returned check from the bank? If so, look to see what bank is on her check and go to her bank and cash it. That happend to me with a guest bounced a check on me. I got stuck with a $10.00 fee from my bank but at least I received my money back. GOOD LUCK!
 
I just had the same thing happen to me and it took about a month to finally get it cleared up. My advice is to have them make it to you and then go to their bank and cash it before you even submit their show. That is what I decided to do because once they have their stuff you really have nothing to hold back until they pay unless you decide to go after them legally; which IS an option. If I had not gotten my money, and I had ALOT, her order was $93 and my bank fees were $95 because her check bouncing caused three of mine to bounce, that is what i was going to do. I called her bank every day or two and as soon as they said funds were available I jumped in the car and ran to the bank and cashed her check. I was so mad because I felt like she was avoiding me. But if your bank has her check I would get it and call her bank daily until the money is there. They WILL tell you over the phone if she has the available funds. That way you arent wasting your gas running there every day or so. HTH
 
Hasn't happened yetBut I always have each guest make their check payable to me, not the host. And I always let guests know that I prefer payment via credit card - it's just to easy - nothing for me to do!

Good luck with your deadbeat host!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if a host's check is returned?

If a host's check is returned, the first step is to contact the host to inform them of the issue. You should also check with your bank to understand the reason for the return. Depending on the situation, you may need to request a new payment method from the host to settle any outstanding balances.

Will I be charged a fee for a returned check?

Yes, typically there may be a fee associated with a returned check, both from your bank and potentially from the host's bank. It's important to clarify these fees with your bank and communicate them to the host if necessary.

How can I prevent checks from being returned in the future?

To prevent checks from being returned, ensure that hosts are aware of the importance of providing valid and sufficient funds when issuing a check. Additionally, consider offering alternative payment methods, such as credit cards or electronic payments, which may reduce the likelihood of returned checks.

What happens if the host cannot provide a new payment method?

If the host cannot provide a new payment method, you may need to discuss the situation with them to find a resolution. This could involve setting up a payment plan or potentially canceling the order if necessary. Always communicate openly and professionally to maintain a good relationship.

Who should I contact for assistance with a returned check issue?

If you encounter issues with a returned check, you should first reach out to your upline or team leader for guidance. Additionally, you can contact Pampered Chef's customer service for further assistance and to ensure you are following the correct procedures.

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