Where can I cash a check? Your complete guide
Key takeaways
There are plenty of ways to cash a check, and your bank or credit union can often be the best route. Learn how you may be able to save time and fees when cashing checks.
You’ll need a valid photo ID and the check will need to be endorsed before cashing it.
Cashing a check with your bank, credit union, or a mobile banking app will generally be the lowest-cost, lowest-risk option.
Many people choose to avoid unfamiliar online check cashing services due to the risk of fraud or hidden fees.
What you need before cashing a check
Valid identification
A photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, green card, or a state ID will often be needed to cash a check.
Endorsing the check
Sign the back of the check within the area labeled for endorsements.
Types of checks that can be cashed
Payroll checks
Personal checks
Government checks
Tax refund checks
Cashier’s or certified checks
Best places to cash a check (with a bank account)
Your bank or credit union:
Many banks cash checks for account holders at no additional charge, though policies and fees vary. In this case, you’ll generally receive the cash right away or the next day. If you have a particularly large check, cashing it with your bank can help you avoid fees. However, your bank’s policies may vary. You may want to ask about their policies to understand more about your bank’s timelines and whether they charge a fee.
Mobile banking apps:
Using a smartphone to upload a photo of a check for deposit typically means funds will be available within one or two business days. Some banks offer optional instant access for a fee, although availability depends on the bank’s policies and the type of check.
ATM check deposits:
Many banks let you deposit a check into an ATM. Some banks make the funds accessible in two business days or less, while others may let you access a portion of the money right away.
Where to cash a check without a bank account
The issuing bank:
You can typically cash a check at the bank that issued it, even if you don’t have an account there. There may be fees involved, depending on the bank.
Check cashing stores:
Check cashing stores can be a fast, convenient way to get a check cashed. However, they’ll likely charge a fee which typically ranges from 1-10% of the check amount, depending on the provider and location.
Retail stores:
Popular retailers (think Walmart or large grocery store chains) will sometimes cash checks and will typically have lower fees than a check cashing store.
Prepaid debit cards:
Certain prepaid cards will let you load checks onto them through a mobile app or in-store service.
Where not to cash a check
Unknown online services:
Unfamiliar online services may carry a higher risk of scams or unexpected fees.
Individuals or informal arrangements:
A stranger offering cash in exchange for your check could expose you to fraud and it may violate banking rules.
Fees to expect when cashing a check
Where to cash a check for free:
Most of the time, mobile deposit options and your own bank or credit union are the best places to cash a check for free.
Low-fee options:
Low-fee options can include the issuing bank or a major retail store.
High-fee options:
Check cashing stores and payday lenders both tend to charge high fees.
How long does it take to get the money?
Same-day cashing:
Check cashing stores, the issuing banks, and retail locations often provide access to funds the same day, depending on the check type and verification process.
1–2 business days:
Bank deposits and mobile deposits tend to take one or two business days.
Holds on large or unusual checks:
Banks may hold a check if the amount is quite large, you’ve recently opened your bank account, or they notice something odd about the check (like it’s from another state or country). The hold time allows the bank to verify that the check is legitimate before cashing it.
Alternatives such as direct deposit may reduce the likelihood of check holds. Hold policies vary by bank and account history.
Tips to cash a check safely & cheaply
Use your bank whenever possible
Cashing a check at your bank is often among the lowest-cost and most straightforward options.
Compare fees before cashing:
Compare fees from multiple places before choosing where to cash a check, since even small fees add up over time.
Consider opening a basic bank account:
If you don’t already have one, opening a basic checking or savings account could save you significant money over time if you plan to cash more checks.
Avoid signing until asked:
Some banks recommend waiting to endorse a check until you’re ready to deposit it, which may reduce the risk of misuse if it’s misplaced.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting your ID
Signing the check too early
Using high-fee services unnecessarily
Trying to cash checks that aren’t payable to you
Falling for “advance check” scams (where someone asks you to cash a check for them and wire money back to them)
Bottom line
You have multiple options for cashing a check, but there can be fees and some risk involved with a few of the options. Cashing checks with your bank generally offers a low cost, low risk way to access your money, but you can also visit check cashing stores, ATMs, or large retailers. It can be beneficial to research fees before deciding what works best for you.
While Raisin doesn’t offer check cashing services, it can help you compare multiple high-yield savings accounts. Finding the right savings product to support your financial goals can be a helpful tool in your overall financial strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cash a check at Walmart?
Walmart stores will typically cash checks but often charge a fee.
Can I cash a check instantly?
It’s possible, especially if you cash the check at your bank or the issuing bank, check cashing stores, or via a mobile banking app.
Why do banks put a hold on checks?
When a check is unusually large or involves something suspicious, banks may put a hold on it to investigate the legitimacy of the check.
What’s the cheapest way to cash a check?
Using your own bank or credit union is often one of the lowest-cost options, though fees vary.
The above article is intended to provide generalized financial information designed to educate a broad segment of the public; it does not give personalized tax, investment, legal, or other business and professional advice. Before taking any action, you should always seek the assistance of a professional who knows your particular situation for advice on taxes, your investments, the law, or any other business and professional matters that affect you and/or your business.
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