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A check verification service is a business whose primary work can be defined as essentially maintaining two relational databases: one of personal identities, and the other of bounced checks. They offer their services on a subscription basis to retailers and financial institutions, and their functionality is usually accessed either by telephone or internet. Some banks bundle a level of this service with a business checking account or with a bank credit card acceptance program. Some check verification services also offer collection agency service for the civil prosecution of check fraud. Trade names this service is offered under in the U.S. include FirstChex, TeleCheck, Certegy, WelcomeCheck, ChexSystems, SCAN, Verified.

Many of these services are quick, efficient, and accurate. Others will only verify checks over a certain amount if the person presenting the check has a history of using the checks with the small group of merchants who use that service. This failure to gather information outside their networks sometimes result in "false negatives," where the check is rejected, even though the account has sufficient funds, longevity, and no negative reports.

It is estimated that over 25 million U.S. citizens are currently "blacklisted" by the many check verifications agencies all over the country.

Due to the increasing number of people falling into the "unbanked" category, there's been a proportionate increase in the number of new businesses and websites offering assistance to these individuals. Many of these sites offer helpful information and articles, while a few others charge a fee for their services.

• Automated Clearing House

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