Consumer guide

Bad check laws in Montana

Key facts

Bad check laws in Montana
MeasureValueYear
civil damages rule[1]A person who issues a dishonored check is liable to the payee for a service charge plus the greater of 100 dollars or three times the check amount, though total damages may not exceed the check's value by more than 500 dollars.2025
felony threshold amount[2]1,5002025
misdemeanor penalty[2]Under Mont. Code Ann. 45-6-316, issuing a bad check draws a fine of up to 1,500 dollars or up to 6 months in county jail, or both; if the value obtained or attempted exceeds 1,500 dollars or the checks are part of a common scheme, the fine may reach 50,000 dollars with up to 10 years in state prison.2025
notice period days[1]102025
service fee max[1]302025
statute citation[2]Mont. Code Ann. Section 45-6-3162025
statute of limitations years[1]62025

Lending rules in Montana: Montana lending laws.

Sources

  1. Montana Legislature. 27-1-717. Issuing a bad check, draft, converted check, electronic funds transfer, or order or stopping payment -- civil liability -- statute of limitations.
  2. Montana Legislature. 45-6-316. Issuing a bad check.