Shafted by the bank

[dougsbpc]

Back in September 2000, I moved accross town to a new address. I provided a post office forwarding address that expired August 2001. I notified the bank by telephone call and correspondence of my new address on August 15, 2001.

The bank neglected to change the address on my bank statement. Not receiving my bank statement, I contacted the bank again to change the address on my account (this was approximately November 1, 2001). They did finally change to my correct address and I received my November 2001 bank statement at my home. Upon examining the statement, I found 4 forged checks for a total of $1,200. I then immediately went to my old address, spoke to the individual who bought the house and found he had my September bank statement. Upon opening the statement, I found 5 forged checks for $3,800.

The bank claims it has no obligation to make the September forgeries good and intends not to.

Am I stuck here?

Thanks.

 

[ALawyer]

You should not be stuck.

If the bank paid a forged check, it is liable. While you may have had a duty to notify it, as IT failed to follow your instructions you should be excused. Don't let them push you around.

Best bet may be to get some help from a radio / newpaper / TV station consumer help line as they will not want bad publicity. The state banking agency may help if it is a state chartered bank, if not the FDIC may assist.

 

[dougsbpc]

Thanks for your advice ALawyer. I really appreciate it.

After being persistant as you recommended, the bank finally reimbursed me the full $5,000.