Western Union Does Not Cash Checks
Western Union does not cash checks of any kind — not personal checks, not cashier's checks, not payroll checks. Western Union's business is money transfer: sending cash from one person to another, usually across state lines or internationally. They do not handle check processing, verification, or payment.
If you have a cashier's check and need to turn it into cash or deposit it into an account, you will need to use a bank, credit union, or check-cashing service instead. Each of these has different requirements and fees, and some are faster than others depending on where you are and what account you have.
Key Takeaways
- Western Union transfers money between people but does not process checks of any type.
- Banks and credit unions will cash or deposit a cashier's check if you have an account with them, usually with no fee.
- Check-cashing services will cash a cashier's check for a fee, typically 1 to 3 percent of the check amount, and do not require an account.
- Walmart, grocery stores, and some pharmacies offer check-cashing at their customer service desk for a flat fee, usually $3 to $6.
- The fastest option is usually your own bank or credit union, where a cashier's check often clears the same day or next business day.
Where to Cash a Cashier's Check Instead
Your bank or credit union is the simplest place to cash a cashier's check. If you have a checking or savings account, you can walk in with the check and ask the teller to cash it or deposit it. Most banks will not charge you a fee for this, and the funds are often available when ready or by the next business day.
If you do not have a bank account, a dedicated check-cashing service will cash the check for you. These businesses charge a percentage of the check amount — usually between 1 and 3 percent — but they do not require you to open an account. You will need to show a government-issued ID, and the service will verify the check is legitimate before handing over cash.
Retail check-cashing is another option. Many Walmart locations, grocery store chains, and pharmacy chains offer check-cashing at their customer service desk. The fee is usually a flat amount ($3 to $6) rather than a percentage, which can be cheaper than a dedicated service if the check is large. You will still need an ID.
Why Banks Are Usually the Fastest Route
If you have access to a bank account, that is almost always your best option for a cashier's check. Banks have direct relationships with other banks and can verify a cashier's check when ready because it is drawn on another bank's account. This means the funds are usually available right away, not held for several business days the way a personal check might be.
Credit unions work the same way. If you are a member, you can deposit or cash a cashier's check with no fee and see the money the same day or next business day. Some credit unions are part of shared branching networks, which means you can use another credit union's branch if your own is not nearby.
What You Need to Bring
At a bank or credit union, bring the cashier's check and a government-issued ID. That is usually all you need. If you are depositing rather than cashing, you may also need to provide your account number, though the teller can look it up if you have your debit card.
At a check-cashing service or retail location, bring the check and a government-issued ID. Some services ask for a second form of ID or a utility bill to verify your address, but a driver's license or passport is almost always sufficient. Ask ahead if you are unsure what the location requires.
Fees and Timing by Option
| Option | Fee | Timing | Requires Account |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your own bank or credit union | None | Same day or next business day | Yes |
| Check-cashing service | 1–3% of check amount | Same day (usually within hours) | No |
| Walmart or grocery store | $3–$6 flat fee | Same day (usually within hours) | No |
| Western Union | N/A — does not cash checks | N/A | N/A |
What Makes a Cashier's Check Different from Other Checks
A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's own account, not on a customer's personal account. This is why it clears so quickly — the bank has already verified the funds exist and set them aside. When you present a cashier's check to a bank or check-cashing service, they know the money is good because it comes directly from another bank.
This is also why Western Union does not handle them. Western Union is not a bank and does not have the infrastructure to verify checks or process them through the banking system. They only move money that is already in someone's account or that someone brings in as cash.
If You Cannot Get to a Bank
If your bank is closed or you do not have time to visit during business hours, a check-cashing service or retail location is your next best option. Many check-cashing services stay open evenings and weekends, and most grocery stores and Walmart locations are open late. You will pay a fee, but you will have cash the same day.
Some banks also offer mobile deposit, where you photograph the check with your phone and submit it through the bank's app. This does not give you cash when ready, but the funds are usually available by the next business day and there is no fee. Check your bank's app to see if this option is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit a cashier's check at an ATM?
Many banks allow mobile deposit through their app, where you photograph the check and submit it. Some ATMs also accept check deposits, but you will need to check with your specific bank. The funds are usually available by the next business day.
What if the cashier's check is damaged or torn?
A slightly damaged check can usually still be cashed or deposited at a bank. If it is severely damaged or the amount is illegible, the bank may refuse it. Contact the bank that issued the check — they can issue a replacement.
Do I need to endorse a cashier's check before cashing it?
Yes. The back of the check has a line where you sign your name. Sign it just before you hand it to the teller or check-cashing service. Some places ask you to sign in front of them so they can verify your signature matches your ID.
How long does it take a cashier's check to clear?
At your own bank, usually same day or next business day. At a check-cashing service or retail location, usually the same day. If you deposit it at a different bank than the one that issued it, it may take one to two business days.
What if I lost the cashier's check?
Contact the bank that issued it right away. You will need to provide the check number, amount, and the date it was issued. The bank can place a stop payment and issue a replacement, though there may be a small fee.