About 10% of NSF checks cannot be collected in NorthStar's "first phase process" (phase 1 is where you receive back 100% of the collected NSF check's face value plus 25% of the collected state bad check fee).  For the NSF checks that cannot be collected in this way, and for all stop payment and closed account checks, NorthStar offers a secondary collection service through a separate but closely allied collection service (Equinox Collection Services).

Secondary collection efforts from Equinox include collection phone calls, credit bureau reporting, skip-tracing, district attorney intervention, and possible legal action.  Checks processed in this second phase are "contingency split" between NorthStar and its clients.  Businesses receive back 50% of the collected state bad check fee plus 50% of the collected phase 2 check's face value (i.e. 50% of everything that is collected).

Equinox uses its most advanced collection techniques for phase 2 checks and seeks collection on these items for 6-18 months (you choose the length of time when signing up).  If Equinox cannot collect a phase 2 check, it (Equinox) absorbs all the collection costs. 

You may let the appropriate checks go to this secondary collection service "automatically" (this means NorthStar will move them into this phase when appropriate).  You may also choose to be "selective" about second phase collections (this means you use NorthStar's web site to manually select which checks you want to submit to this secondary process).

I recommend "phase 1 and 2 automatic" and letting any phase 2 checks be processed for 18 months if necessary.  Phase 1 and 2 automatic means NorthStar will move checks to phase 2 collections on your behalf when that is necessary.  Stop payment and closed account checks can only be processed as phase 2 items.  You make the phase 1 and 2 collection choices when signing up.