Missing Documents Under a Letter of Credit: What to Do Before Presenting
How to spot missing documents or originals before presenting under a Letter of Credit, and the options if one cannot be obtained.
Reviewed by LCCheck team (owner-approved) · 2026-10-12
Short answer
A presentation is discrepant if any document required by field 46A is absent, or if fewer originals or copies are presented than the credit requires. Build a checklist from 46A, count originals for each, and chase any missing item before the deadline; if it cannot be obtained, seek an amendment or waiver rather than presenting incomplete.
| Source of requirements | Field 46A (and 47A) |
|---|---|
| Originals | At least one original of each required document (Art. 17(a)) |
| Full set | All originals issued, if credit asks for a full set |
How to check
- List every 46A document with originals and copies.
- Check 47A for extra documents or statements.
- Tick each off against the documents in hand.
If a document is missing
- Contact the issuer early.
- Ask the applicant for an amendment or waiver.
- Do not substitute a different document.
Sources
General guidance, not legal advice. Your bank examines documents independently.
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