The Central Bank of Oman Launches Automated Partial Payments of Checks

The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) announced the successful go-live of the Automated Partial Payment Checks system within its Electronic Check Clearing system, both of which are powered and implemented by ProgressSoft. This milestone is among the region’s most advanced check clearing enhancements, introducing a modified check processing mechanism at a national level.

The system allows banks to collect partial payments for checks which would otherwise be rejected due to insufficient funds. The beneficiary can receive available funds while retaining the right to collect the remaining balance through subsequent attempts. Beneficiaries can also request a certificate from their bank detailing the collected and outstanding amounts which can be used for judicial purposes if necessary.

This innovative solution delivers tangible benefits across the financial ecosystem. Individual account holders gain access to available funds, experience reduced financial distress and face fewer legal disputes. Small and medium-sized businesses enjoy higher recovery rates, improved cash flow and stronger commercial relationships.

At the bank level, these improvements also create broader efficiency benefits. Banks benefit from fewer returned check and greater clearing efficiency. At the macro level, the system enhances liquidity circulation, strengthens trust in non-cash instruments and supports overall economic stability.

The go-live represents a continuation of CBO’s payments modernization agenda and supports the broader objectives of Oman Vision 2040, aligned with prior national initiatives to digitize and enhance the payments infrastructure and overall digital maturity.