Where you can cash a check

You can cash a check at your own bank, at another bank if you have an account there, at a check-cashing service, or at some retail stores. Your bank is usually the fastest and cheapest option — most banks cash checks for free if you have an account. If you don't have a bank account, a check-cashing service will do it for a fee, typically between 1 and 5 percent of the check amount, though the exact fee depends on the service and the check size.

Some grocery stores and pharmacies also cash checks, usually for a flat fee of $3 to $5 or a small percentage. Walmart, for example, cashes checks at customer service for a fee that varies by check type. These retail options are convenient if you're already shopping there, but they may have limits on how much they'll cash or what types of checks they accept.

Key Takeaways

  • Cashing a check at your own bank is free and takes just a few minutes if you have an account.
  • Check-cashing services charge a fee (usually 1 to 5 percent) but don't require a bank account.
  • You need to sign the back of the check and bring a valid ID to cash it anywhere.
  • Some checks take longer to cash than others — payroll checks usually clear the same day, while personal checks may take a few business days.
  • If you don't have an ID or the check is made out to someone else, you'll face restrictions at most places.

What you need to bring to cash a check

You'll need two things: the check itself and a valid photo ID. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Some check-cashing services also accept other forms of ID, but a photo ID is the standard requirement everywhere.

Before you go, sign the back of the check in the endorsement area — that's the blank space on the back where you write your name. Don't sign it until you're at the location where you're cashing it, because a signed blank check can be cashed by anyone. If the check is made out to you and someone else, both people usually need to sign it and be present to cash it, though some banks will make exceptions if you have a relationship with both parties.

How to cash a check at your bank

Walk into your bank with your ID and the unsigned check. Tell the teller you want to cash it. The teller will ask you to sign the back of the check in front of them, then they'll verify the check is legitimate, confirm you have funds available in your account (if it's drawn on your bank), and hand you the cash. The whole process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

If the check is drawn on a different bank, your bank may still cash it for free, but it might take a day or two for the funds to clear. Some banks have a policy of holding checks from other banks for a set number of business days before releasing the cash. Ask the teller about their hold policy before you hand over the check.

How to cash a check at a check-cashing service

Check-cashing services are storefronts that cash checks for people without bank accounts or for those who want cash when ready. You'll find them in most neighborhoods — search online for "check cashing near me" or look for signs in strip malls. Bring your ID and the unsigned check.

The clerk will ask you to fill out a form with your name, address, and sometimes your phone number. They'll examine the check for signs of fraud, verify the account exists (by calling the bank or checking electronically), and then deduct their fee from the amount you receive. If the check is for $100 and the fee is 3 percent, you'll get $97 in cash. The whole transaction takes 10 to 20 minutes. Some services also offer to hold the check and deposit it into a bank account for you if you'd rather not carry cash.

How long it takes to get your money

At your bank, you get cash when ready if the check is drawn on that same bank. If it's drawn on another bank, you may get the cash right away, but the bank might place a hold on the funds for one to five business days. During that hold period, the money is in your account but you can't spend it — the bank is waiting for the other bank to confirm the check is good.

At a check-cashing service, you get cash on the spot. The service assumes the risk that the check might bounce, so they verify it electronically before handing over money. If the check does bounce later, the service will come after you for the money, so don't spend it until you're sure it cleared.

Payroll checks and government checks (like tax refunds or Social Security) usually clear the same day because they're drawn on large, well-known accounts. Personal checks from individuals take longer because the bank has to verify the account has enough money.

What happens if the check bounces

A check bounces when the account it's drawn on doesn't have enough money to cover it. If you cash a check and it bounces, the bank or check-cashing service will take the money back out of your account or come after you for it. If you already spent the cash, you'll owe them the amount plus a fee.

If you cashed the check at a check-cashing service and it bounces, the service may charge you a returned-check fee on top of the amount owed. Some services also report bounced checks to a database that other check-cashing services can see, which may make it harder for you to cash checks at other places.

If you suspect a check might bounce — for example, if the person who gave it to you seemed unsure about their account balance — you can ask the bank or check-cashing service to verify the funds before you cash it. They can't may provide the check won't bounce later, but they can confirm the account exists and has money in it right now.

Cashing checks without a bank account

Check-cashing services exist specifically for people without bank accounts. You don't need to open an account or provide proof of income — just bring your ID and the check. The fee is your only cost, and you walk out with cash.

Some check-cashing services also offer savings accounts or prepaid cards as an alternative to carrying cash. If you cash checks regularly, a prepaid card might be cheaper than paying fees each time. Ask the clerk what options they offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check that's made out to someone else?

Not usually. Most banks and check-cashing services will only cash a check made out to you. If the check is made out to you and another person, both of you typically need to be present with ID. If someone wants to give you money, they should write the check in your name only.

What if I lost my ID?

You won't be able to cash a check without a photo ID at a bank or check-cashing service. You can get a replacement ID from your state's DMV or the issuing agency. In the meantime, if you have a bank account, you might ask the bank if they can make an exception based on your account history, but most won't.

Can I cash a check by mail?

Some banks allow you to deposit checks by mail or through a mobile app, but that's a deposit, not a cash-out. You'd need a bank account for that. If you want cash without going in person, a check-cashing service is your only option — they require you to be there in person.

What's the difference between cashing and depositing a check?

Cashing means you get the money in cash when ready. Depositing means the money goes into a bank account, and you can withdraw it later. Cashing is faster if you need cash right now; depositing is safer if you want to keep the money find.

Do I have to cash the whole check?

No. If a check is for $200 and you only need $100, you can ask the bank or check-cashing service to cash it for the full amount and deposit the rest into your account, or to give you back a smaller check for the remainder. Not all services offer this, so ask first.