Legal Definitions - presentment warranty

A presentment warranty is an implied promise made by the presenter of a negotiable instrument, such as a check or promissory note, to the payor or acceptor that the instrument is genuine and has not been altered. This warranty is made at the time of presentment for payment or acceptance of the instrument.

For example, if John presents a check to Jane for payment, he is making a presentment warranty to Jane that the check is genuine and has not been altered. If the check turns out to be fraudulent or altered, Jane can hold John liable for any damages she incurs.

Presentment warranties are governed by the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and are an important protection for parties involved in negotiable instruments.