Maine § 4-403. - Customer's right to stop payment; burden of proof of loss

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 4-403. — Customer's right to stop payment; burden of proof of loss, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4-403.. Customer's right to stop payment; burden of proof of loss

(1).  A customer or any person authorized to draw on the account if there is more than one person may stop payment of any item drawn on the customer's account or close the account by an order to the bank describing the item or account with reasonable certainty received at a time and in a manner that affords the bank a reasonable opportunity to act on it before any action by the bank with respect to the item described in section 4‑303. If the signature of more than one person is required to draw on an account, any of these persons may stop payment or close the account.

(2).  A stop-payment order is effective for 6 months, but it lapses after 14 calendar days if the original order was oral and was not confirmed in writing within that period. A stop-payment order may be renewed for additional 6-month periods by a writing given to the bank within a period during which the stop-payment order is effective.

(3).  The burden of establishing the fact and amount of loss resulting from the payment of an item contrary to a stop-payment order or order to close an account is on the customer. The loss from payment of an item contrary to a stop-payment order may include damages for dishonor of subsequent items under section 4‑402.

Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 4-403.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 4-403. cover?

Section 4-403. ("Customer's right to stop payment; burden of proof of loss") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 4-403.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 4-403." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 4-403. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.