Yes, Walmart cashes checks at most locations, but not all check types and not everywhere

Walmart's Money Center or Customer Service desk will cash certain types of checks during store hours. The service is available at most Walmart locations, though a small number of stores do not offer it. You do not need a bank account, and the process takes a few minutes. However, Walmart will not cash all checks — they have specific rules about which ones they will accept, and they charge a fee that varies by check type.

The checks Walmart will cash are: payroll checks, government checks (including tax refunds and Social Security), cashier's checks, and checks from other Walmart locations. They will not cash personal checks, post-dated checks, checks with alterations, checks written to a business, or checks written to multiple people. If your check does not fit these categories, you will need to use a bank or credit union instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart cashes payroll checks, government checks, cashier's checks, and checks from other Walmart stores, but not personal checks or business checks.
  • You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID, and the check must be written to you by name.
  • Fees range from about $3 to $6 depending on the check type, and you receive the money in cash when ready.
  • Not every Walmart location offers check cashing, so call ahead or ask at the Money Center before you go.
  • If Walmart will not cash your check, a bank, credit union, or check-cashing store are your other options.

What you need to bring and what Walmart will ask

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Walmart will not cash a check without it. The check must be made out to you by name, and your name on the ID must match the name on the check. If the names do not match exactly, Walmart will refuse the check.

The check must be signed by the person or organization that issued it. If it is blank on the back, you will need to sign it in front of the Walmart employee. The check cannot be torn, stained, or altered in any way. If the amount written in words does not match the amount in numbers, or if anything has been crossed out or written over, Walmart will not cash it.

Fees Walmart charges for check cashing

Walmart charges a fee for cashing checks. The fee depends on the type of check. Payroll checks and government checks typically cost $3 to $6 to cash. Cashier's checks may cost more. Checks from other Walmart locations may have a different fee. The exact amount varies by store location, so ask at the Money Center what the fee will be before you hand over your check.

The fee is deducted from the check amount. If your check is for $100 and the fee is $3, you will receive $97 in cash. Some Walmart locations may offer lower fees or promotions at certain times, so it is worth asking if there are any current deals.

Where to go inside Walmart and what hours explore

Look for the Money Center or Customer Service desk, usually near the front of the store. At some Walmart locations, check cashing happens at the Money Center. At others, it happens at Customer Service. If you are not sure where to go, ask a Walmart employee when you enter.

Check cashing is available during regular store hours. Most Walmart stores are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., though some locations have different hours. Call your local Walmart before you go to confirm that check cashing is available and to ask about any current fees or restrictions. The phone number is on Walmart's website, or you can search for your nearest store location.

Checks Walmart will not cash

Personal checks — checks you write to someone or that someone writes to you from their personal bank account — are not accepted. Post-dated checks (checks dated for a future date) will not be cashed. Checks written to a business name or to multiple people will be refused. Checks that are damaged, altered, or have information that does not match will not be cashed.

If your check falls into one of these categories, you have other options. A bank or credit union will often cash checks that Walmart will not, especially if you have an account with them. A check-cashing store will cash personal checks and some other types, though they typically charge higher fees than Walmart. Some employers will cash payroll checks directly if you ask, and some government agencies will reissue a check if yours is damaged.

What to do if your local Walmart does not offer check cashing

A small number of Walmart locations do not have a Money Center or do not offer check cashing. If your store is one of them, call ahead to confirm before making a trip. You can find the phone number on Walmart's website by searching for your store location.

If the nearest Walmart that cashes checks is too far away, consider a bank, credit union, or check-cashing store instead. Banks and credit unions often cash checks for free or for a small fee if you have an account. Check-cashing stores are open longer hours than banks and do not require an account, though their fees are usually higher than Walmart's.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Walmart account or membership to cash a check?

No. You do not need a Walmart account, a Walmart+ membership, or a bank account. You only need a valid photo ID and a check that Walmart will accept. Anyone can walk into a Walmart Money Center and cash a check if it meets their requirements.

What if the check is made out to me and my spouse?

Walmart will not cash checks made out to two people. The check must be written to you alone. If your spouse's name is also on the check, you will need to go to a bank or credit union instead, where you may be able to cash it if both people are present with ID.

Can I cash a check if I do not have a photo ID?

No. Walmart requires a valid government-issued photo ID to cash any check. If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport also works if you have one.

How long does it take to cash a check at Walmart?

The process usually takes five to ten minutes. The employee will check your ID, verify the check information, deduct the fee, and give you cash. During busy times, you may wait longer in line, but the actual transaction is quick.

What if Walmart says my check is fraudulent or suspicious?

Walmart may refuse a check if they believe it is fraudulent or if something about it looks wrong. If this happens, ask why they will not cash it and what you can do next. You can take the check to your bank or the bank that issued it to verify it is real, or contact the person or organization that wrote the check.