Tenant's check bounced. Do I charge the bank fee plus a late fee?

mel_accidental Starter postOct 14, 2026

My tenant paid October rent by check on the 1st and my bank just told me it bounced. They charged me $25 for it. My lease has a $50 late fee after the 5th. Can I charge both the bank fee and the late fee, or is that piling on?

6 replies

  1. oldschool_rayOct 14, 2026

    I charge both and always have. The bank fee is a cost the tenant caused, and the rent still was not paid on time, so the late fee applies too. Just make sure your lease mentions a returned check fee.

  2. tara.pmOct 14, 2026

    Check what your lease actually says first. If it only lists a late fee, I would pass along the $25 the bank charged you and the late fee, and add a returned payment line to the lease at renewal. Also ask for the replacement payment in a form that will clear, like a money order.

  3. bigjim_pghOct 14, 2026

    One bounced check, I give people a pass on the drama and just collect the fees. Two bounced checks and they pay by money order or electronic payment from then on. I put that in writing.

  4. ben_spreadsheetsOct 14, 2026

    Keep the bank notice. If this ever ends up in front of the magistrate you want to show exactly what the bank charged and when, not just a number you wrote down.

  5. mel_accidental AskerOct 14, 2026

    Lease has a returned check line after all, $25, so that plus the late fee. I'll ask for a money order this time and write it all down. Thanks.

  6. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerOct 14, 2026

    It is standard practice to pass along the bank fee because the tenant caused that direct expense. Whether you can also charge the late fee depends on your lease terms and local regulations regarding grace periods and fee limits. You will want to check your local landlord tenant laws and your specific lease agreement to make sure your fees comply with state rules. Going forward, requiring certified funds like a money order or cashier check for replacement rent is a wise precaution.

    Generated by AI. Not legal, tax or investment advice, and it may be wrong. Check with a qualified professional before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Forum rules