New York § 21 - 21Cancellation of unpaid checks or drafts
Full text of New York New York Consolidated Laws § 21 — 21Cancellation of unpaid checks or drafts, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21. 21Cancellation of unpaid checks or drafts
§ 21. Cancellation of unpaid checks or drafts. Checks or drafts of any municipal corporation, district corporation or school district which shall have been outstanding for more than one year from the respective dates thereof, shall be cancelled and the amount thereof returned to the fund which was originally charged. Prior to such cancellation, the bank or banks on which such checks or drafts were drawn shall be notified, by the fiscal officer or other officer having responsibility for issuance of such checks, not to pay the same. A complete and accurate record of all checks and drafts so cancelled shall be maintained. The amount of any such check or draft shall be paid without interest in the same manner as any other claim presented for payment within six years from the original date of issuance, from any moneys legally available, to the lawful holder thereof, or in the absence of such check or draft, to the person or entity lawfully entitled to payment upon submission of a voucher and a statement accounting for such absence. For purposes of such payment, the governing body of the municipal corporation, district corporation or school district may establish an appropriation containing moneys sufficient to pay the amounts of any outstanding checks or drafts which may be presented.
Source: official New York text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New York § 21
What does New York Consolidated Laws § 21 cover?
Section 21 ("21Cancellation of unpaid checks or drafts") is part of the New York Consolidated Laws, the codified statutory law of New York. 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 New York § 21?
A common citation format is "New York Consolidated Laws § 21" (New York). 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 New York law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New York official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New York attorney.
How does New York § 21 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New York 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 New York.