What Is a Substitute Check?

You may encounter substitute checks if you request a copy of a check from us. A substitute check is a slightly smaller copy of your original check. For your protection, it must meet several requirements to be considered a legal copy of your check. A substitute check must contain a copy of the front and back of the check, must be legible, and must state, "This is a legal copy of your check. You can use it the same way you would use the original check." See example below.





All financial institutions are required to accept either an electronic copy of your check or a substitute check. To understand your rights when you receive substitute checks from us, see our Disclosure of Account Information.

Golden 1 is committed to keeping our members informed. If you have any questions regarding Check 21, please contact our Member Service Contact Center at 1-877-GOLDEN 1 (1-877-465-3361) from outside the Sacramento area.