How do you know when a check has truly cleared?

True or false: If a check clears within the typical one to five business days but later is discovered to be fake, the bank customer who deposited the check and subsequently spends the money cannot be held financially responsible for the fraud. If you answered false, congratulations. You know something about how the banking system works.  Just because you might have access to the funds deposited check does not mean the check is good. Although federal regulations require financial institutions to make funds from a deposit available generally within one to five business days, it can take weeks before a bank discovers that a deposited check is worthless.

Don't ever accept a check if part of the deal is you have to wire back some money.

Make sure the check has cleared through the issuing bank.

Paypal is the best payment method.