If the accused agrees to pay the cheque amount, the case can be settled with the complainant’s consent. The offence is compoundable, so the court can close the case at any stage upon mutual agreement. Payment may also reduce punishment if made during trial.

If the accused in a cheque bounce case is ready to pay, the case can often be settled or closed, depending on the stage:
• Before filing the case: If payment is made within 15 days of notice, no case is filed.
• After filing, before or during trial: The case can be compounded (settled legally), and punishment avoided.
• After conviction: Paying may help get lesser punishment or fine instead of jail.