I wrote a check to Steinmart at 51st and Harvard, Tulsa, Oklahoma, for $238.10 that could not be processed. Store personnel gave me a card and I called Certegy, the check clearinghouse, while I was in the store. After verifying my name, address, driver's license number, date of birth, bank routing number, account number, check number, and store location [I was less than 10 miles from my Jenks, Oklahoma, home address], I was told by Certegy employee in an unfriendly manner that my check was declined because there was a gap in check numbers. I asked what that meant, and was told Certegy was trying to protect me: it was a security issue because there was a considerable gap between the check number I had written tonight and the last checks they had on file for me. I explained that did not surprise me because I use computer checks and bank-issued checks and the numbers are very different. I held the phone out so store personnel could the rude Certegy employee tell me again it is a security issue and they were trying to protect me. I asked how is it protecting me when I can't have access to my own funds. Again I was told about the gap in check numbers. I hung up.

I cannot believe this happened. I provided photo identification in the form of a current driver's license and concealed weapon permit. The Steinmart personnel were friendly and helpful but there was nothing they could do.

I checked my account when I got home to make sure there had been no fradulent activity. There is plenty of money in the account and NO fradulent activity.

Just as Steinmart management has a choice of who they use as a check clearhouse, I too have a choice of where I choose to shop. I WILL NOT SHOP AT ANY RETAIL LOCATION THAT USES CERTEGY!