NSF Checks on a Credit Report

Dear LLS,

A non-sufficient funds check may not appear on your credit report. Instead, it would more likely become part of a debit report, which typically includes information about your bank account opening and closing history, frequency of debit and ATM card use, check orders, and of course, non-sufficient fund or unpaid bank account activity.

Companies use debit reports to assist in opening checking accounts, issuing debit cards, and setting ATM withdrawal limits. There are organizations called debit bureaus that provide those services.

Experian does not collect or maintain that information. However, if you fail to provide the necessary funds or to pay any NSF fees charged by your bank, it could send the amount to collections. At that point, it becomes a debt you owe to your bank, and the collection account could become part of your debit report and your credit report.

The collection account will remain in your credit history for seven years.

Thanks for asking.
- The "Ask Experian" team