Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Re: check charges

You cost Target money by tendering an nsf check. However, you don't owe Target whatever amount it decides you owe. You owe them a fair and reasonable calculation of what you cost them. That would include any service charge that Target had to pay to its bank as a result of your check bouncing as well as, perhaps, interest on the money that they were without for a few days. Many merchants charge about $25. I think there are reported cases where courts have held that a $25 charge was more than the merchant was entitled to. The amount of the check is a factor to consider in trying to determine what a fair calculation of damages is.

I would consider this a case of "choose your battles" and just pay what they're asking for. However, if you want to be a crusader for consumers everywhere, thumb your nose at them and offer what you think is a fair amount.