An office worker changed the amount due on a bill from $150 to $1500; When billed, she kept the extra money. The office worker committed felony theft. True/False.

• A. Forgery (Felony)
• B. Theft (Felony)
• C. Embezzlement
• D. Forgery is a Misdemeanor

Answer: (A)

Changing the amount on a bill is altering a written instrument to defraud. That act fits forgery: creating or modifying a document with the intent to deceive or obtain money unlawfully. When she increases the billed amount and keeps the extra cash, the crucial criminal element is the fabrication of a false bill, which is forgery. Forgery is typically treated as a felony, which is why this option is the best label. The act could raise theft or embezzlement charges in other circumstances, but the defining offense here is forging the bill itself, not merely taking money. The statement that forgery is a misdemeanor is incorrect because forgery generally carries felony consequences.