Dealing with a Bad Check from My Boss: What to Do in This Stressful Situation

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses a participant's experience dealing with a bounced check from their boss after a product order. Participants share their thoughts on how to handle the situation, express empathy for the boss, and consider the implications of the financial mishap.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes receiving a notice that their boss's check for a product order bounced, expressing embarrassment and frustration over the situation.
  • Another participant suggests holding the boss's products until payment is made, emphasizing the importance of protecting oneself financially.
  • Some participants speculate that the bounced check may be related to previous payroll issues, indicating a broader financial problem.
  • One participant shares their relief upon discovering that the funds were available, reducing their loss to a returned check fee.
  • Several participants express a preference for absorbing the $10 fee to avoid confrontation, citing empathy for the boss's financial struggles.
  • One participant reflects on their own past experience with a bounced payment, suggesting that financial difficulties can be temporary.
  • Another participant mentions the idea of encouraging credit card payments in the future to avoid similar situations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There appears to be a general agreement among participants about the importance of empathy towards the boss, with many suggesting that absorbing the fee may be the best course of action. However, there are differing opinions on whether to communicate about the bounced check or to let it go without mention.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and opinions regarding financial mishaps in a workplace context, particularly among colleagues in a consultant community.

Who May Find This Useful

Participants within the consultant community who may encounter similar financial situations or are interested in discussing interpersonal dynamics related to business transactions.

bsaxman
bsaxman
Silver Member
Messages
549
Ugh... So, my boss placed a $250+ order as a part of a co-workers catalog show for her son and daughter in law who will be getting married this month. I closed the show on sunday of last week, and had put the deposits in on saturday. Well... yesterday in the mail I get the "NSF notice" that her check was returned! Yikes! If that's not bad enough, a few weeks ago some of the company payroll checks bounced! I feel so embarrased for my boss, but I didn't expect something like this to happen, especially after the fiasco of the payroll checks bouncing. I just find it extremely embarrassing and extremely irresponsible on her part! If you don't have the money, don't place an order! I am so sick to my stomach and I dont know how I am going to approach this if the fund's aren't available today.... UGH :yuck:
 
Wow, that's a toughie!! I would make sure I talk to the co-worker who had the show and tell her you're picking up the boss's order to hold it until payment goes through. Then, call the boss and tell her that unfortunately, her check didn't clear and you'll be holding her products until she gives you payment in cash only. It sounds like there are some funky things going on, with the payroll checks bouncing, and now this, and I wouldn't want you to get screwed out of $250. This is one of those situations you just can't be "nice" about and let her get her products, b/c you'll never see the money. Good luck!!!
 
Oh No! Perhaps her check bounced as a result of the payroll screw-up? Check with the bank once more before you approach her.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
I just sent my husband to the bank to see if just maybe the funds were available today... and... THANK GOD... (he answered my prayers) the funds were available! Woo-hoo. So now we are only out the $10.00 returned check fee. I still feel really embarrassed for my boss... should I just eat the $10.00 fee or ask her to be reimbursed? What would you do?
 
I would eat the fee to avoid the confrontation and embarrassment
 
Eat the fee. A couple months from now when everything is smooth and the fiscal penny-crunch is behind everyone, then talk about it over coffee - you'll probably get your $10, and your boss might even buy your coffee. Give it time. Having been in tight financial spots before, it is often as easy as a couple weeks for things to ease up, a couple months for there to be no problem any more.

I'm a little embarassed to say that the first time I ordered PC as a customer and interested recruit lead, my debit card payment bounced (sorry, Barb!) but she covered me and I paid her back once products arrived, plus paid her $20 anticipating the ISF fee on her end.

I can only begin to imagine the challenges faced by the company that couldn't cover its payroll. Give it time and be nice! (talk to folks about the opportunity!!)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
i think that i would feel better about it myself if i just ate the $10.00 for the fee also... the business person inside of me says "MAKE HER PAY IT" then the REAL person in me says... they are having hard times... my commission from the show will more than cover it... just forget about it and be glad you got the $$ for it...
 
bsaxman said:
i think that i would feel better about it myself if i just ate the $10.00 for the fee also... the business person inside of me says "MAKE HER PAY IT" then the REAL person in me says... they are having hard times... my commission from the show will more than cover it... just forget about it and be glad you got the $$ for it...
Click to expand...
If it's only $10, I wouldn't worry about it, she did place a rather large order. My bank charges alot higher so I probably would ask someone to cover that if they bounced a check.
 
bsaxman said:
i think that i would feel better about it myself if i just ate the $10.00 for the fee also... the business person inside of me says "MAKE HER PAY IT" then the REAL person in me says... they are having hard times... my commission from the show will more than cover it... just forget about it and be glad you got the $$ for it...
Click to expand...
That's probably a good idea. When she gets her statement with the overdraft fee she will know what happened (she may already realize it). She will probably admire you for handling it as you did. Hopefully she will make it right with you.
 
Whew, I'm glad to hear that the funds were there and you're only out $10. I wouldn't have wanted to go the route that I described in my last message, but I wouldn't have wanted to be out $250, either!! GL!
 
cathyskitchen said:
Wow, that's a toughie!! I would make sure I talk to the co-worker who had the show and tell her you're picking up the boss's order to hold it until payment goes through. Then, call the boss and tell her that unfortunately, her check didn't clear and you'll be holding her products until she gives you payment in cash only. It sounds like there are some funky things going on, with the payroll checks bouncing, and now this, and I wouldn't want you to get screwed out of $250. This is one of those situations you just can't be "nice" about and let her get her products, b/c you'll never see the money. Good luck!!!
Click to expand...
Glad the funds were there.
I don't think it would have been a good idea to tell the co-worker that your going to hold the bosses items. That would mean letting the co-worker know what was happening. It's always best to be straight forward with people rather than spreading the info around to others, IMO. Now, you don't have to worry about it. That's good. I'm not sure I'd bring it up later, either. That could really embarass your boss that you've been sitting on this information for so long. If you aren't going to bring it up now, then just let it go forever. If your boss brings it up, then go with it. JMO
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
yeah i think i will just not bring it up! She may get the NSF notice from her bank, and talk to me about it... and if so, then I'm okay with that... otherwise, I'm gonna just forget it even happened, and carry on. If it were me in that situation I think I would be super embarrassed. In the future I think I will encourage the credit card payments.. then at least I will KNOW if it is declined after submitting the show.. instead of being hit by the "suprise nsf notice!"
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after receiving a bad check from my boss?

First, remain calm and review the check to confirm that it is indeed bad. Check with your bank to see if the check has bounced due to insufficient funds or another reason. Once confirmed, notify your boss about the situation as soon as possible. It's important to approach the conversation professionally and express your concerns without escalating the situation.

Can I demand payment in cash after receiving a bad check?

Yes, you can request payment in cash or another form that is guaranteed, such as a money order or certified check. When discussing this with your boss, explain that you need to resolve the issue promptly and that cash would ensure you receive your payment without further complications.

What are my rights if my boss refuses to pay after issuing a bad check?

If your boss refuses to pay, you have the right to pursue legal action. You can file a complaint with your state's labor department or consult with an attorney who specializes in employment law. Depending on the laws in your state, there may be specific regulations regarding bad checks and employer obligations.

How can I prevent this situation from happening again in the future?

To prevent future issues, consider discussing payment methods with your boss and establishing a clear understanding of payment schedules. You might also want to keep records of all transactions and communications regarding payments. If possible, request direct deposit or other reliable payment methods that reduce the risk of receiving bad checks.

Is it worth it to pursue legal action over a bad check?

Pursuing legal action can be time-consuming and may not always be worth the effort, especially if the amount is small. Consider the cost of legal fees and the potential outcome. If the amount is significant or if this is a recurring issue, it may be worthwhile to consult with a legal professional to discuss your options and determine the best course of action.

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