Where to Cash a Check at CVS and What You Need to Know

CVS does cash checks, but only certain types and only at locations with a MoneyCenter

CVS cashes checks at many of its stores, but not all of them. The stores that do offer this service have a MoneyCenter — a dedicated counter or kiosk inside the store. Not every CVS location has a MoneyCenter, so you will need to confirm yours does before you go. You can call your local CVS or check the CVS website to see if your store offers check cashing.

CVS does not cash every type of check. The checks they will cash are payroll checks, government checks (like Social Security or tax refunds), and checks from other individuals. They do not cash business checks, starter checks, or checks that are post-dated (checks written for a future date). The check must also be made out to you — not to you and someone else, and not to a business you own.

There is a fee for cashing a check at CVS. The fee varies depending on the check amount and your location, but it is typically between $1 and $5. Some CVS stores may charge more. Ask the cashier what the fee will be before you hand over your check.

Key Takeaways

• CVS cashes checks only at stores with a MoneyCenter, which you can confirm by calling the store or checking the CVS website.
• CVS will cash payroll checks, government checks, and personal checks, but not business checks, starter checks, or post-dated checks.
• The check must be made out to you alone, not to you and another person or to a business.
• CVS charges a fee to cash a check, usually between $1 and $5 depending on the amount and location.

What to bring when you go to CVS to cash a check

You will need a valid photo ID. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. CVS will not cash a check without one. Bring the check itself, of course, and make sure it is signed on the back by the person who wrote it (the check writer should have signed it before giving it to you).

If you are cashing a government check like a Social Security check or a tax refund, you may need to bring additional paperwork depending on the check amount and your state. Ask the CVS cashier what they need before you hand over the check. Some states have rules about how much money can be cashed without extra proof of identity.

Check cashing fees at CVS compared to other places

CVS is one option for cashing a check, but it is not always the cheapest. Banks and credit unions often cash checks for free if you have an account with them, even if the check is not from that bank. Some banks will cash checks for non-members for a small fee, usually $5 to $10 depending on the check amount.

Walmart, Target, and other grocery stores also cash checks at customer service desks, and their fees are often similar to CVS — usually $1 to $5. Payday loan stores and check-cashing businesses charge higher fees, sometimes 2 to 5 percent of the check amount, which can add up quickly on larger checks.

If you have a bank account, cashing a check there is almost always the cheapest option. If you do not have a bank account, comparing the fee at CVS, Walmart, and your local grocery store will help you find the lowest cost.

How long it takes to cash a check at CVS

Cashing a check at CVS is usually fast — typically 5 to 10 minutes if the store is not busy. The cashier will check your ID, verify the check information, and count out your cash. During busy times, like lunch or after work, you may wait longer.

Some CVS locations may hold the check for verification if it is very large or if there is something unusual about it. In those cases, the store may ask you to come back later or the next day. This is rare, but it can happen. If you are in a hurry, ask the cashier whether they can process your check right away.

What happens if your CVS does not have a MoneyCenter

If your nearest CVS does not have a MoneyCenter, you have other options. Call ahead to find the closest CVS that does offer check cashing — the CVS customer service line can tell you which stores in your area have a MoneyCenter. You can also check the CVS store locator on their website and filter for MoneyCenter locations.

If no nearby CVS has a MoneyCenter, try Walmart, Target, or your local grocery store — most of them cash checks at customer service. Your bank or credit union is another option, and they may not charge a fee. Some banks will cash checks for non-members for a small charge, so it is worth calling to ask.

Reasons CVS might refuse to cash your check

CVS will refuse to cash a check if it is post-dated (written for a future date), if it is a business check, or if it is a starter check. They will also refuse if the check is made out to more than one person, if it is made out to a business you own, or if you do not have a valid photo ID.

If the check amount seems very large or if there is something that looks wrong with the check — like a smudge, a correction, or handwriting that does not match — the cashier may refuse to cash it or ask you to come back another day while they verify it. If this happens, ask the cashier what the problem is. You can also contact the person who wrote the check and ask them to verify it with CVS if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all CVS stores cash checks?

No. Only CVS stores with a MoneyCenter cash checks. You can find out whether your store has one by calling the location directly or using the CVS store locator on their website to filter for MoneyCenter locations.

What is the maximum amount I can cash at CVS?

CVS does not publish a specific maximum check amount, but very large checks may be held for verification. Call your local CVS to ask what their limit is, as it can vary by location.

Can I cash a check made out to someone else?

No. CVS will only cash a check made out to you. The check must have your name on it and match your photo ID.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

CVS requires a valid photo ID to cash any check. If you do not have one, you will not be able to cash a check there. You would need to go to your bank or credit union instead, where the rules may be different.

Can I cash a post-dated check at CVS?

No. CVS will not cash a check that is written for a future date. The check must be dated today or earlier. If you have a post-dated check, you will need to wait until that date and then cash it elsewhere or at your bank.