Chapter V - Of Presentment
Section 68
Section 68: Payment place specified and not elsewhere
Section 68 concerns an instrument that is expressly payable at a specified place and not elsewhere.
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Need advice on Section 68?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
A promissory note, bill of exchange or cheque made, drawn or accepted payable at a specified place and not elsewhere must, in order to charge any party thereto, be presented for payment at that place.
Key rule and applicability
For a note, bill or cheque with that exclusive payment-place wording, presentment at the specified place is required in order to charge any party to it.
Limits and related provisions
The words and not elsewhere are material to this section’s setting. Distinguish section 69’s specified-place rule and the other presentment or excuse provisions instead of assuming every address printed on an instrument has the same legal effect.
Hypothetical business example
Hypothetical: a bill is accepted payable at a named office and not elsewhere. The holder plans payment presentment at that location rather than treating an approach at another office as satisfying section 68.
Practical decision flow
Read the complete payment-place wording on the instrument and acceptance.
Identify the exclusive location and arrange presentment there.
Retain location and timing evidence and assess any separately applicable statutory excuse.
Practical checklist
Do
- Read the complete payment-place wording on the instrument and acceptance.
- Identify the exclusive location and arrange presentment there.
- Retain location and timing evidence and assess any separately applicable statutory excuse.
Avoid
- The words and not elsewhere are material to this section’s setting. Distinguish section 69’s specified-place rule and the other presentment or excuse provisions instead of assuming every address printed on an instrument has the same legal effect.
Glossary
- Exclusive payment place
- The specified place accompanied by the not-elsewhere restriction.
- Charge a party
- Assert the instrument liability for which the presentment requirement is relevant.
Frequently asked questions
Does section 68 include cheques?
Yes. It expressly lists notes, bills and cheques.
Which parties does the stated requirement concern?
The provision says any party to the instrument.
Are the words not elsewhere relevant?
Yes. They distinguish this section’s exclusive-place setting.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026