post office mistake

[catmeat]

If a post office cashier makes a mistake that results in a deposited cheque being paid twice into an internet bank (in Scotland) would the money have to be paid back or do they have to honour their mistake (as I have been told some banks do?)

Also, is there a deadline for when they can ask for it back?

[ICEMANSAV]

Almost all deposits made into an account by accident will be removed later when the mistake is realised by the company involved. It is an offence to spend funds that you have knowledge about being mistakenly presented into your account. Sorry, but you will have to declare the mistake if they do not recoup the funds from your account automatically.

[Drisgirl]

I have always been told that regardless of their mistake you are obliged to repay the money as it is not rightly yours.You may however be given a goodwill payment for honesty.

The only time I have heard of banks honouring their mistakes is when they fill the tenner bit in the ATM up with twenties or if there is a technical hitch and they have NO proof who benefited - although rare as it happens I think the mile long Q at 2 in the morning is a bit of a give away.

Sorry catmeat think you are on a hiding to nothing !!

I would chance it though so you're not alone !

[Ward-Minter]

Certainly an offence in England and Wales. Don't know if Scottish law has a different theft act. Worth checking out.