2 February 2025 marks a major turning point in Tunisia, with the cheque reform introduced by cheque law no. 2024-41 of 2 August 2024 coming into force. The reform aims to modernise cheque payments and make them more secure. For people who issue cheques (drawers), these new rules mean some essential adjustments to manage their finances effectively.
Old chequebooks are no longer valid from 3 February 2025. To keep using cheques, you need to request a new chequebook from your bank.
The new chequebooks include:
- Authorised limit: a maximum amount applies to each chequebook and each cheque, based on the drawer's creditworthiness.
- Expiry date: every cheque shows a clearly stated expiry date, reducing the risk of using out-of-date cheques.
Each cheque includes a QR code containing key information such as the cheque number, the RIB (bank account details), the expiry date and the maximum authorised amount. The payee scans this code to make accepting the cheque easier.
The new rules encourage more responsible use of cheques by taking users' creditworthiness into account. For individuals, this means your bank assesses your ability to honour your payments before issuing you a chequebook.
Penalties for bounced cheques are now stricter. If a cheque for more than 5,000 DT is issued without sufficient funds and is not settled, it can lead to a two-year prison sentence and a fine equal to 20% of the cheque's value. For cheques under 5,000 DT, although criminal penalties have been removed, administrative consequences may still apply.
- Make sure you have the necessary funds before writing a cheque.
- Respect the limits and validity dates shown on your cheques.
- If in doubt, contact your bank to clarify your financial situation.
Don't forget to request your new chequebook from your bank so you can keep using cheques. By preparing now and adopting responsible financial habits, you can avoid penalties and help build a more secure and transparent payment system.
About Flouci:
Flouci (by Kaoun) is a pioneering fintech company based in Tunis, Tunisia, dedicated to creating innovative financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses across Africa. Our mission is to make financial services more accessible, inclusive and efficient, so that everyone can take part in the digital economy.
Website: https://flouci.com/
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