A check is dishonored either by non-payment or non-acceptance.
Dishonor by non-payment occurs when (a) the check is duly presented for payment and payment is refused or cannot be obtained; or (b) presentment is excused and the check is overdue and unpaid.
Dishonor by non-acceptance happens when (a) the check is duly presented for acceptance, and such an acceptance as is prescribed by law is refused or cannot be obtained; or (b) presentment for acceptance is excused and the check is not accepted.