Where To Cash a Check Without a Bank Account

Your main options for cashing a check

You can cash a check at a bank, credit union, check-cashing store, grocery store, or retailer — each charges different fees and has different requirements. A bank or credit union is usually cheapest if you have an account there; they typically cash checks for free. If you don't have an account, a check-cashing store will cash it for a fee (usually 1 to 5 percent of the check amount), and many grocery stores and retailers like Walmart offer check cashing for a flat fee of $3 to $6.

The fastest route depends on where you are and what you have with you. A bank teller can cash a check in minutes if you have an ID. A check-cashing store requires an ID and sometimes a second form of identification. Grocery stores and retailers are often open longer hours than banks, which can matter if you need cash outside normal business hours.

Key Takeaways

• Banks and credit unions cash checks for free if you have an account, but may charge $5 to $15 if you don't.
• Check-cashing stores charge a percentage of the check amount (typically 1 to 5 percent) and require a valid ID and sometimes a second form of identification.
• Grocery stores and large retailers like Walmart and Target offer check cashing for a flat fee of $3 to $6, often with longer hours than banks.
• You will need a valid government-issued ID at any location; some places also require a second form of ID or a phone number on file.

Cashing a check at a bank or credit union

If you have a checking or savings account at a bank or credit union, cashing a check is free. Walk in with the check and a valid ID, endorse the back of the check (sign your name on the line marked "Endorse here"), and hand it to a teller. They will verify the check and give you cash. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

If you don't have an account at that bank, many will still cash the check but will charge a fee — typically $5 to $15 depending on the bank. Some banks only cash checks for non-customers if the check is drawn on that same bank. Call ahead or ask at the window before you hand over the check, because policies vary widely.

Credit unions are often more flexible than banks about cashing checks for non-members, especially if the check is drawn on a credit union. If you belong to a credit union network (like CO-OP or Allpoint), you may be able to cash a check at any credit union in that network for free or a small fee.

Using a check-cashing store

Check-cashing stores are designed for people without bank accounts. They cash checks, money orders, and payroll checks. The fee is usually 1 to 5 percent of the check amount — so a $500 check might cost $5 to $25 to cash. The exact fee depends on the type of check and the store's policy.

You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport). Some stores also require a second form of ID, such as a utility bill with your name and address, or a phone number on file. The process takes 10 to 20 minutes. Bring the check and your ID, endorse the back of the check, and the cashier will count out your money.

Check-cashing stores are open longer than banks — many stay open until 7 or 8 p.m. and some are open on Sundays. If you need cash outside normal banking hours, a check-cashing store is often your fastest option. However, fees add up if you cash checks frequently, so this is most practical for occasional use.

Cashing a check at a grocery store or retailer

Many grocery stores (including Kroger, Safeway, and Whole Foods) and large retailers (Walmart, Target, Costco) offer check cashing at the customer service desk. The fee is usually a flat $3 to $6, regardless of the check amount. This is cheaper than a check-cashing store if you are cashing a large check, but more expensive if the check is small.

You will need a valid ID. Some stores require you to have a rewards card or membership on file, though this is not universal. The process is quick — usually 5 to 10 minutes — because the cashier straightforward scans your ID and the check, then hands you cash. These locations are often open longer than banks, including evenings and weekends.

Not every location offers check cashing, so call ahead or check the store's website. Some stores limit the amount you can cash (for example, $5,000 maximum) or the types of checks they accept (personal checks, payroll checks, government checks). Ask at the customer service desk about their specific policy.

What you need to bring and what to expect

You will always need a valid government-issued ID. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Some places accept a tribal ID or passport card. The ID must not be expired, and the name on the ID must match the name on the check.

Endorse the check before you hand it over. On the back of the check, there is a line that says "Endorse here" or similar. Sign your name on that line. Do not write anything else on the back of the check unless the cashier asks you to. If the check is made out to two people (for example, "John Smith and Jane Doe"), both people must be present to cash it, and both must endorse it.

Bring cash or a debit card if you want to pay any fees. Most places take cash, but some check-cashing stores and retailers may charge the fee to a debit card instead. Ask before you hand over the check.

Fees and how they compare

Location	Fee for account holders	Fee for non-account holders	ID required
Bank (your bank)	Free	$5–$15	Yes
Credit union (your credit union)	Free	$5–$10	Yes
Check-cashing store	1–5% of check amount	1–5% of check amount	Yes, sometimes two forms
Grocery store or retailer	$3–$6 flat fee	$3–$6 flat fee	Yes

The cheapest option is always a bank or credit union where you have an account. If you don't have an account, a grocery store or retailer is usually cheaper than a check-cashing store for checks over $100. For smaller checks, a check-cashing store may be cheaper. Compare the fee to the check amount before you decide where to go.

What to do if the check is refused

A check may be refused if the name on the check does not match your ID exactly, if the check is post-dated (dated in the future), if the check is stale-dated (more than six months old), or if there is a problem with the check itself (torn, illegible, or suspicious). If a check is refused, ask the cashier why. Some reasons can be fixed on the spot — for example, if you forgot to endorse it, you can sign it and try again.

If the check is post-dated or stale-dated, you cannot cash it until the date has passed or within the valid window. If the name does not match your ID, you may need to contact the person who wrote the check and ask them to write a new one with the correct name. If the check appears to be fraudulent or altered, do not try to cash it — report it to the person who gave it to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check without an ID?

No. Every location that cashes checks requires a valid government-issued ID. This is a federal requirement to prevent fraud and money laundering. If you do not have an ID, you will need to get one before you can cash a check. Contact your state's DMV or equivalent agency to learn how to get a state ID card.

What if the check is made out to someone else?

You cannot cash a check made out to someone else, even if they give you permission. The check must be made out to you or to you and another person. If someone wants to give you money, they should write a new check in your name or give you cash instead.

Can I cash a check if it's torn or damaged?

It depends on how damaged it is. If the check number, routing number, or account number is illegible, most places will refuse it. If only a corner is torn and all the important information is readable, some places will cash it. Ask the cashier before you hand it over. If it is refused, contact the person who wrote the check and ask for a replacement.

How long does it take to cash a check?

Most checks cash in 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the location and how busy it is. A bank teller is usually fastest (5 to 10 minutes). A check-cashing store or retailer takes 10 to 20 minutes because they may need to verify your ID or run a background check.

What if I don't have enough cash to pay the fee?

Most places will deduct the fee from the check amount and give you the rest in cash. For example, if you cash a $100 check at a store with a $5 fee, you will receive $95. Ask the cashier to confirm the fee before they process the check.