diff --git a/piker/clearing/_ems.py b/piker/clearing/_ems.py
index 9b8e0934..a55d55a4 100644
--- a/piker/clearing/_ems.py
+++ b/piker/clearing/_ems.py
@@ -848,7 +848,7 @@ async def process_client_order_cmds(
 
                 # NOTE: cancel response will be relayed back in messages
                 # from corresponding broker
-                if reqid:
+                if reqid is not None:
 
                     # send cancel to brokerd immediately!
                     log.info(