[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

Seems to me that the stop payment order was made after the check was cashed at the "check casing place"...

If that were the case, the bank would honor the check. So, the check store's issue would be with the bank, not the OP. A check cashing store should have the latest information on stop order checks. Also, they should have an insurance policy that can be activated on an individual check basis to guarantee the check. To me, it is more likely that the check store screwed up and wants to intimidate the OP into covering their loss. If I were the OP, I wouldn't pay anything to the check store. To make it worse, the OP could pay the check store and then the bank could honor the check, and the OP would lose $1600 Instead of $800.

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by Spalumbos62

????????

It can happen. Google "check washing". I just got some new checks, and they have a whole new range of security technology built into them, almost like currency. If you write a lot of checks, I would consider ordering new checks with the latest technology.

[cj1040]

Our well known contractor gave us one of 4 quotes for our landscaping job and they worked very hard and it was perfect. On the last day I asked how to make out my check for 1500 and the guy...not the one who estimated...wanted cash! I said NO that I was never told that and could not do that so he had me make it out to an individual and not the company name...a cash under the table game I am sure. But my job is just as I had wanted, and my canceled check is my receipt so whatever....it was just an interesting surprise

[Two Bills]

Originally Posted by Petersweeney

Giving a check to a stranger is like the worst thing you could do - your lucky he didn’t drain your account

Nonsense.

[Heytubes]

Check with your bank as to the time limit on a stop payment on a check as my bank after six months says you have to stop payment again.
Also, never pay cash or check to the individual as they make tons of money and never pay taxes unless you send them and the government a 1099.

[joansullivan]

Originally Posted by Misspeck

I was given a card from "EARTHSCAPE" Specializing in Landscaping Service and called to have some work done. I was given a reasonable estimate and the work was begun without any payment. A small amount of stone removal was accomplished and the remainder was left in piles all over the property. I was then asked for a check for 1/2 of cost to finish job ($800) which I submitted by check. I never heard from him again and I still have piles of rocks in my yard. There is no answer to the dozens of calls I have made to both phone numbers supplied. I put a stop on the check which he cashed at a Check Store and now THEY want me to give them the $800. I have since been told that this man goes around telling everyone how he is trying to start up his business and will do a great job because he wants to make a reputation for himself. His name is John Andrews and there is no such place as EARTHSCAPE that knows him so I recommend that everyone beware of falling for this. I plan to pursue this with the local police because anything over $500 is larceny and I think this guy should be stopped.

Report him to Crimes against seniors.

[Tim C.]

I would never pay in advance. Not even half. it always makes me suspicious when anyone wants money up front for job that has not really even been started

[Tim C.]

I can't believe some of the games I've endured just asking about services and getting messages back. Far too many contractors seem to think TV is full of rich, but stupid, people. for example, I asked on a FB page about someone to paint my ceiling. One guy came in at $4500. I was like, are you out of your mind? You're 3-4x higher than every other bid so far. he came back with immediately, "oh my mistake, I meant $2250". Needless to say, I didn't even bother to answer. Found a small business that did it well and quickly for $1,000.

and we haven't even full time moved in yet!