Bank Error in My Favor
I have an ethical dilemma. I realize now that the currency exchange where I cashed my SSI check yesterday made a $300+ error in my favor. I should have caught this at the time, but I was very near fainting from standing in line, and my brain was not functioning well at the time. I didn't notice the 3 $100 bills mixed in with the twenties. They made a $100+ error around Christmas, but I didn't catch that for two weeks, when I realized that I actually had money left. They did correct the -$100 error they made on my TV cable bill payment last month, which caused my cable to be briefly disconnected. If I keep the extra money, it is essentially theft. They are closed over the weekend, so I have until Monday to decide what to do. Any advice?
Dithering Trivia!
Dithering Trivia!
4 Comments:
Ooh, a difficult one. Firstly, practical considerations. Are they likely to be able to find their mistake and rectify it? Lets assume they can't and you are free and clear unless you choose to 'fess up.
It is tempting, isn't it? On the other hand, I am a great believer in karma. You had a mixed day recently - bad like with your tyre going, but good luck with the lottery and the kindness of a stranger. I think that to keep the good karma going, you should 'fess up and give the money back. Admittedly, the mistake shouldn't have been made but we're none of us perfect. I'm sure you'd want them to rectify it pretty quickly if the mistake had been made the other way round.
Just my two penorth worth!
By supersal1, Jul 04 09 7:04 AM
You've already said quite clearly that keeping the money and keeping quiet would be theft. I think you have to do what will keep your own mind calm, and that seems to be to tell the bank.
Of course you don't have to march in first thing Monday waving notes at them. You can tell them about it the next time you go in, and ask them what's the best way to handle it. You wouldn't be in a tearing hurry to get an answer, would you?
By lesley153, Jul 04 09 8:09 AM
I think they will more than likely find their mistake and if you spend the money it will be harder to pay back.
By honeybee4, Jul 04 09 9:49 AM
Please ensure you get a receipt for the money when you return it.
By Deunan, Jul 04 09 10:07 AM