Dealing with a Returned Check: Tips for Handling Difficult Customers

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses experiences and strategies related to handling a situation involving a returned check from a customer. Participants share personal anecdotes and varying approaches to managing difficult customer interactions and financial transactions.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant recounts a challenging interaction with a customer regarding a returned check, highlighting the customer's blame and their own efforts to remain professional.
  • Another participant suggests returning the products and collecting the bank fee from the customer.
  • One user proposes discussing the issue with the host to facilitate the return of the products for reimbursement.
  • A participant shares their practice of having checks written to the host to mitigate the risk of bounced checks.
  • Another user expresses concern about the potential risks if the host's check bounces, emphasizing a preference for credit card transactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to handle returned checks and customer interactions, with no clear consensus emerging on a single effective strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies based on their individual practices and interactions with customers, reflecting a variety of approaches to similar challenges.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing similar issues with returned checks or difficult customer interactions may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant to their situations.

linojackie
linojackie
Messages
492
I posted a week or two ago about having a customer with a returned check. Well, I called her and left a nice message saying "I need to talk to you about your order" so as to be tactfull. A week later no call, so I call her again and say "I need to talk to you right away to resolve the check that you wrote that was returned to my bank". She calls back when I am out and my daughter tells her to call back later. She didn't. 3 days later I call her again. This time I reach her. She has the everloving NERVE to tell me that it's my fault and if I was a better consultant (and she used those exact words), I would have deposited her check sooner and that wouldn't have happened. ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? I stayed professional and pleasant despite her rudeness. I kept telling myself she was just embarassed because the bounced a check and that's the reason for the attitude. So she tells me she will be "the good person" and pay my $12 bank fees, but that she doesn't want the products anymore. I have a feeling I'll never see the $12, but what do I do about the products? I don't need them, and could probably use the $45 towards something better, so can anyone give me some advice or insight?

Sorry for the rambling and thanks for reading!
 
Send the products back and get the money back. Take the $12 from her for the returned check fee that she owes you for her mistake. Say goodbye.
 
Does the host have the products? I would go to the host and just explain the issue at hand, and say you need to return the products so you can get the reimbursement. That's all---the guest wants to play games? Well, not with you!

Now, if she has the products already, that's another issue.
 
Take the advice from the others who posted...good advice! Denise :)
 
thats why I have all checks written to the host (seriously, they aren't going to write their friend/sister/neighbor/coworker a hot check, me suzy consultant who they may never see again yep!! it might happen.)
I put the show on my PC Visa & let the host deal with the checks. plus I HATE going to the bank and I prefer to do as little as possible so i'd rather keep up with payments from 5-6 hosts a month than 100+ checks
 
Teresa - then if the host check bounces you have lost it all and she has the products. It is just scary either way. I Love the charge cards!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
That's true and probably a better idea!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first when I receive a returned check from a customer?

When you receive a returned check, the first step is to contact the customer directly. Politely inform them of the situation and ask if they are aware of the issue. This can help clarify any misunderstandings and allows you to discuss possible solutions.

How can I handle a difficult customer who is upset about a returned check?

It's important to remain calm and empathetic when dealing with an upset customer. Listen to their concerns without interrupting, acknowledge their feelings, and reassure them that you want to resolve the issue. Offer options for repayment and be flexible if possible.

What payment methods can I suggest to customers for settling a returned check?

You can suggest various payment methods such as cash, credit card, or electronic payment options like PayPal or Venmo. Offering multiple options can make it easier for the customer to settle the debt and can help maintain a positive relationship.

Should I charge a fee for a returned check?

Yes, it is common practice to charge a fee for a returned check, but you should check your local laws and your company's policy first. If you decide to charge a fee, communicate this clearly to the customer and ensure they understand the reason for the charge.

How can I prevent returned checks in the future?

To prevent returned checks, consider implementing a policy that requires customers to provide valid identification and verify their account information before accepting checks. Additionally, you may want to encourage alternative payment methods that are less likely to result in issues, such as credit cards or electronic payments.

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