New RBI Rules: Banks To Clear Cheques On Same Day From October 4

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Starting October 4 , 2025, private banks like HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank will clear cheques on the same day, marking a major shift in India’s banking landscape. Following the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) updated settlement framework, customers can now enjoy faster, more secure payments.


Same-Day Cheque Clearance : What Customers Need to Know


Under the new RBI system, cheques deposited from October 4 will be cleared within hours on the same day. Banks advise customers to maintain sufficient balances to avoid cheque bounce and ensure all cheque details are correctly filled to prevent delays or rejections.

Positive Pay System : Enhancing Cheque Security


To boost security, banks encourage using the Positive Pay System. For cheques above Rs 50,000, account holders must submit the following details at least 24 working hours before deposit:


  • Account number
  • Cheque number
  • Date of issuance
  • Cheque amount
  • Beneficiary name

Banks verify these details before clearing the cheque. If mismatched, the cheque is rejected, and resubmission is required. Customers must email cheque details to designated regional addresses, after which banks send an acknowledgment before processing.

Cheque Truncation System (CTS) Remains Key


Currently, banks rely on the Cheque Truncation System (CTS), which electronically transmits cheque images and details to the drawee bank. While CTS has streamlined cheque processing, deposits made via drop boxes or ATMs previously took two working days to settle. The new same-day clearance will drastically reduce this timeline.


RBI Guidelines and Phased Implementation


The RBI has mandated Positive Pay for cheques above Rs 5 lakh and strongly recommends it for those exceeding Rs 50,000. Cheques validated through Positive Pay are also covered under the RBI’s dispute resolution framework.

Phase 1 of continuous clearing and settlement begins on October 4, 2025, while Phase 2 starts on January 3, 2026, ensuring a gradual and secure rollout of faster cheque clearance.

Tips for Customers to Avoid Rejection


To ensure smooth cheque processing, account holders must:

  • Match the amount in words and figures
  • Ensure the date is valid
  • Avoid overwriting in payee name or amount

Ensure the drawer’s signature matches bank records


Following these guidelines will help customers fully benefit from same-day cheque clearance while avoiding delays or rejection.

The RBI’s same-day cheque clearance system is a game-changer for Indian banking. With the Positive Pay System and CTS integration, payments are set to become faster, more secure, and more convenient for customers across the country.