In Texas, a Misdemeanor Hot Check (“Theft by Check”) conviction carries the following penalties:
Hot Check for under $20.00: up to a $500.00 Fine
Hot Check for $20.00 – $499.99: up to 180 days in jail, a fine up to $2,000.00, or both
Hot Check for $500.00 – $1,499.00: up to 1 year in jail, a fine up to $4,000.00, or both