If you still use cheques for banking transactions, you may want to check your cheque book carefully.
Banks are adding new security features to cheque leaves to make transactions safer and reduce the risk of fraud.
One such feature is an alphanumeric security code, which contains a combination of letters and numbers.
Bank of India (BOI), for example, has introduced this code on its cheque leaves and has advised customers to use the newer cheque book series.
However, this does not automatically mean that every old cheque book is invalid. Customers should follow the latest instructions issued by their own bank.
Why Are Banks Adding New Security Features?
Cheque fraud and tampering have been a concern in banking transactions.
New security features are being introduced to make it easier for banks to identify and verify cheque leaves.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also been working to make cheque clearing faster and more secure through the Cheque Truncation System (CTS).
Under CTS, the physical cheque does not need to travel from one bank to another.
Instead, its electronic image and important details are sent to the paying bank for processing.
This helps reduce the time required for cheque clearance.
What Is the Alphanumeric Code?
An alphanumeric code is simply a combination of letters and numbers printed on a cheque leaf.
Banks can use such codes as an additional security and identification feature during cheque processing.
Bank of India has introduced this feature and encouraged customers to move to the newer cheque book series.
However, customers should not assume that their existing cheque book has become invalid.
The rules can differ from one bank to another, so it is better to check your bank’s official communication.
Is There a December 31, 2026 Deadline?
Some reports have mentioned December 31, 2026 as a deadline for certain cheques that do not have the alphanumeric code, particularly cheques worth ₹50,000 or more.
However, customers should be careful before treating this as a universal RBI deadline.
The safest option is to check your bank’s official website, customer communication or contact the bank directly.
This will tell you whether your existing cheque book needs to be replaced and whether any specific deadline applies to you.
How Much Does a New Cheque Book Cost?
Cheque book charges depend on the bank and the type of account you have.
For example, Bank of India savings account customers are entitled to 25 free cheque leaves in a financial year.
Additional cheque leaves may attract charges according to the bank’s applicable service charges.
Therefore, check your bank’s latest tariff before requesting an additional cheque book.
Remember: Cheques Are Valid for 3 Months
There is another important rule cheque users should remember.
A cheque is generally valid for three months from the date mentioned on it. So, make sure you deposit or present the cheque within this period.
If a cheque is returned unpaid, it can create financial and legal problems.
In certain situations, cheque dishonour can also lead to action under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.
Why Are Cheques Still Used?
Digital payments have become extremely popular, but cheques are still used for several types of transactions.
Businesses, property deals, loan-related payments and other financial arrangements may still involve cheques.
They also provide a documented record of the payment through bank records.
Therefore, if you continue to use cheques, keep an eye on your bank’s latest rules and security requirements.
If your bank has specifically asked you to replace an old cheque book, it is better to do so before making your next high-value payment.
