A copy of front and back of the original check, which is legally the same...

A substitute check, created under the Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (Check 21), is a paper reproduction of the front and back of an original check, legally equivalent to the original for processing purposes. It is also known as animage replacement document (IRD), as it replaces the original check with a digital image-based substitute. This facilitates faster check clearing through electronic processing.

The web source from NetSuite states: “A substitute check, also known as an image replacement document (IRD), is a paper copy of the front and back of a check, legally equivalent to the original, created under Check 21.” This directly supports Option D. The other options are incorrect:

Electronic conversion order (A)is not a recognized term.

Surrogate financial instrument (B)is not a standard term for substitute checks.

Negotiated bank draft (C)refers to a different financial instrument.

The IOFM APS Certification Program covers “Payments,” including check processing and Check 21 regulations. The curriculum’s focus on “peer-tested best practices” aligns with the definition of a substitute check as an image replacement document.