Don't Forget

ALAMEDA, Calif., April 1, 2005 — In June, Alameda Power & Telecom will begin electronic check conversion, in accordance with the federal "Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act," or "Check 21."

As discussed in the September 2004 edition of The FLASH, Check 21 is revolutionizing the financial world. Starting in June, when you mail a check or pay by check through one of our pay stations, you will be authorizing Alameda Power & Telecom to convert that paper check into an electronic debit.

Check 21 is bringing greater efficiencies, while keeping costs under control. Many financial institutions have implemented fraud detection methods that work with electronic check processing systems. Faster detection increases the chance of catching crooks and minimizing impacts.

You may continue to write checks the way you always have. But be sure adequate funds are available when you write checks, as they will clear noticeably faster, potentially within hours. Cancelled checks made payable to Alameda Power & Telecom will no longer be returned to you. Remember that you can always request a substitute check if you ever need proof of payment.

If you don't want your check to be used for electronic check conversion, we offer other convenient payment methods, such as our Automatic Payment Service, credit or debit card, or even cash.

If you have any questions about Check 21, please contact your bank, credit union, or financial institution for more information.