Excellent question.
There are two schools of thought here on how best to handle this situation - and it's an age old dilema.
First, the bank account is closed, so the bank really has no way to get the money back from the customer. Is the onus on the customer to return the check ? I don't know. Would the same bank cut someone a break, out of the goodness of their heart, to help a customer two months behind on their mortgage - or would they demand payment. Well, we know the answer to that - they would demand payment ASAP or they would bring legal action.
To keep the check is really up to the customer and it's neither right or wrong to keep the check or send it back.
The bank will probably notice & probably will send a letter asking for repayment. The accounting systems banks utilize are so presice that I would be surprised if it goes unnoticed.
But there again, they can ask, but the customer doesn't have to respond.
I hope this helps - Good Luck !
Financial Advisor
15 years expertise in all ares of personal finance, including credit cards, mortgages, real estate.
You're exactly right - there is no wrongdoing in her not taking action. I guess I was a little too long-winded in saying that.
Regards