Business · Cheque Bounce
A cheque given to you was dishonoured — or you are facing a cheque bounce complaint in India. Strict time limits apply on both sides.
Tell us the cheque date, amount and when it was returned.
In short
Under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, the payee must send a written demand within 30 days of learning that the cheque was dishonoured. If the drawer does not pay within 15 days of receiving the notice, a complaint can be filed within one month after that period ends.
Common situations
Who comes to us.
A friend or relative’s cheque bounced.
A buyer’s or tenant’s cheque dishonoured.
A customer’s cheque returned.
An NRI who issued a cheque now facing a case.
Managing hearings from overseas.
Compounding the case.
Your options
For complainants and accused.
Sent within 30 days of the return memo.
Filed in the court with jurisdiction over the payee’s bank branch.
Up to 20% of the cheque amount under Section 143A.
A parallel summary suit for the money.
Settlement at any stage under Section 147.
Challenging the debt, the notice or the timelines.
The law
The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.
Step by step
From abroad
A trusted person in India can handle local steps under a specific power of attorney, attested or apostilled abroad and stamped in India.
Your lawyer appears for you on a vakalatnama, which can usually be signed abroad and sent to India.
Many courts and authorities allow parties abroad to join hearings by video, with permission.
Note the 30-day, 15-day and one-month periods.
The original cheque and memo are key evidence.
Many cases end by compounding.
Avoid these
FAQs
Yes, through an attorney holder who knows the facts.
Within 30 days of receiving information of dishonour from the bank.
Yes, it is compoundable at any stage.
Engage a lawyer and seek exemption or video appearance — don’t ignore it.
Related
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Authorising someone in India.
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Attending Indian court remotely.
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The full category.
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Speak to a lawyer in India by phone or video about a bounced cheque.
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The information provided is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Applicable laws and procedures may vary depending on the facts, jurisdiction, and circumstances of each matter. Consult a qualified legal professional before taking action. Last reviewed: November 2026.
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