BX sinks "floating checks"

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stacy Fowler
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Many check-writers are familiar with the feeling of needing to immediately buy something on Friday despite not getting paid until Monday.

For some, this presents no problem because they will simply "float" their checks, meaning they write a check knowing their merchant won't claim the money from their bank until the next business day, when they will be paid.

However this practice's days are numbered at the Hurlburt Field Base Exchange. As part of an American Armed Forces Exchanges Services initiative, the BX will change its check system to a paper check conversion system by mid-April.

"The minute our new computers arrive, we will put them to use," said Isabel Mehaffy, BX assistant store manager. "We have been training our people on the new system for a while now, so they will be ready to go when we are online."

The system treats a paper check like a debit card, where the bank pulls the money the moment the check is "swiped."

"When we scan your check, the charge will go to your bank immediately," Ms. Mehaffy said. "If you don't have enough money in your account to cover the check we will know almost instantly, and you will be unable to complete your transaction."

Ms. Mehaffy advised patrons to avoid being stuck in line without money to pay for purchases by planning their purchases in advance. She said patrons won't be able to say they "didn't know about the change" because the BX will soon post notices at each cash register.

"This system isn't new - many people have probably seen it at stores off base, and we are now bringing it to our store," Ms. Mehaffy said.

For more information or questions, contact the BX at (850) 884-0030.