This cheque bounce calculator works out every deadline in a Section 138 case: the cheque’s validity, the last date for your legal notice, the drawer’s 15 days to pay, and the window to file your complaint. Missing any one of these dates can end a cheque bounce case before it starts.
Cheque bounce deadline calculator
Section 138 and 142, Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. Enter the dates you have; leave the rest blank.
How to use the calculator
- Enter the date written on the cheque to see until when it can be presented.
- Enter the date you received the return memo from your bank to get the last date for the legal notice.
- Enter the date the drawer received your notice to get the payment deadline and the complaint window.
- Add the cheque amount to see the maximum fine and interim compensation.
The Section 138 timeline
| Stage | Time limit | Provision |
|---|---|---|
| Present the cheque | Within 3 months of the cheque date | S. 138(a) and RBI rules |
| Send the legal notice | Within 30 days of the return memo | S. 138(b) |
| Drawer pays | Within 15 days of receiving the notice | S. 138(c) |
| File the complaint | Within 1 month of the cause of action | S. 142(1)(b) |
| Interim compensation | Up to 20% of the cheque amount | S. 143A |
| Appeal deposit | At least 20% of the fine or compensation | S. 148 |
The cause of action arises on the day after the 15-day period ends. A complaint filed earlier is premature, and one filed later needs an application for condonation of delay.
When is the notice treated as received?
Use the date the drawer actually received the notice. If the notice was sent by registered post to the correct address and was refused or returned unclaimed, courts generally treat it as served. Keep the postal receipt, tracking report and the returned envelope. If you are unsure, enter the earliest likely date of receipt so that your deadlines stay on the safe side.
Punishment and compensation
Dishonour of a cheque under Section 138 is punishable with imprisonment up to two years, or a fine up to twice the cheque amount, or both. The court can order the drawer to pay interim compensation of up to 20% of the cheque amount under Section 143A during the trial. Most cases are compoundable and often end in settlement.
Where to file in Delhi
Under Section 142(2), the complaint is filed in the court with jurisdiction over the branch of your bank where you deposited the cheque. In Delhi, these cases go to the NI Act courts at the district court complexes. Our guide on the cheque bounce case procedure in Delhi explains the full process, from notice to trial.
Next steps
- Draft and send the notice with a clear demand for the cheque amount. See how to send a legal notice in Delhi.
- Keep the original cheque, the return memo, the notice, postal receipts and tracking.
- File the complaint with an affidavit of evidence within the deadline.
- Facing a complaint yourself? Read how to defend a cheque bounce case.
A cheque bounce lawyer in Delhi can check your dates, draft the notice and file the complaint on time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the time limit to send a cheque bounce notice?
The legal notice must be sent within 30 days of receiving the bank’s return memo, under Section 138(b) of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The calculator shows the last date once you enter the memo date.
When can I file a cheque bounce case?
Only after the drawer fails to pay within 15 days of receiving your notice. The cause of action arises on the next day. A complaint filed before the 15 days end is premature and not maintainable.
What is the last date to file a Section 138 complaint?
Within one month from the date the cause of action arises, under Section 142(1)(b). The calculator gives a conservative last date so you file safely within time.
What if I miss the deadline for the complaint?
The court can take cognizance of a late complaint if you show sufficient cause for the delay, under the proviso to Section 142(1)(b). File the complaint with an application for condonation of delay as soon as possible.
How long is a cheque valid for presentation?
A cheque is valid for three months from the date written on it. If it is presented after that, the bank returns it as stale, and Section 138 does not apply.
Where is a cheque bounce case filed in Delhi?
Under Section 142(2), in the court with jurisdiction over the branch of the payee’s bank where the cheque was deposited for collection, such as the NI Act courts at Rohini, Tis Hazari, Saket, Karkardooma, Dwarka or Patiala House.
This calculator gives indicative dates for general information. Courts compute limitation on the facts of each case, so file well before the last date.
Related guides and services
- Cheque bounce case in Delhi: Section 138 procedure
- How to send a legal notice in Delhi
- Cheque Bounce Lawyer in Delhi
- Money Recovery Lawyer in Delhi
Written and reviewed by Advocate Shubham Mehta
Advocate, Bar Council of Delhi (Enrl. No. D/6398/2021), and head of SRLM Law Associates. He practises before Rohini Courts, other Delhi District Courts, Family Courts, consumer commissions and the Delhi High Court. More about the firm
Speak to SRLM Law Associates
For advice specific to your situation, you may consult a qualified advocate. Advocate Shubham Mehta (Bar Council of Delhi, Enrl. No. D/6398/2021) and the SRLM Law Associates team can be reached at +91 92052 74745 or [email protected]. Chamber: 1310, Lawyer’s Chamber Block, Rohini Courts, Delhi – 110085. Office: 250, Kayan Vihar, Delhi – 110033. Open daily, 9 am – 9 pm. See our Google reviews and directions.
Last updated: September 2026. This page is for general information only and is not legal advice.