Where To Get a Personal Check Cashed Without a Bank Account

The fastest places to cash a personal check

You can cash a personal check at the bank or credit union that issued it, at a check-cashing store, at some grocery stores and pharmacies, or by depositing it into a mobile payment app. The bank that issued the check (the one printed on the front) will cash it for free if you go in person with a photo ID, even if you don't have an account there. Check-cashing stores will cash it the same day but charge a fee, usually 1 to 3 percent of the check amount. Grocery stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger cash checks during their customer service hours, also for a fee.

The method you choose depends on whether you have a bank account, how quickly you need the money, and how much you want to pay in fees. If the check is from your own bank or credit union, going directly there costs nothing. If you need cash the same day and don't have an account anywhere, a check-cashing store or grocery store is your quickest option, though you'll pay for the convenience.

Key Takeaways

• The bank or credit union that issued the check will cash it for free with a photo ID, regardless of whether you have an account there.
• Check-cashing stores charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount but are open longer hours than banks and don't require an account.
• Grocery stores and pharmacies like Walmart, Target, and Kroger offer check cashing during customer service hours for a flat fee or percentage.
• Mobile payment apps like PayPal, Square Cash, and some bank apps let you deposit checks by photo, though the money may take one to three business days to appear.
• Bring a photo ID to any location; some check-cashing stores also require proof of address or a second form of ID.

Cashing at the bank that issued the check

The issuing bank is the one whose name appears on the front of the check. Walk into any branch of that bank with the check and a photo ID, and they will cash it for you at no charge. You do not need to have an account at that bank. This is the cheapest option and works for any personal check, including payroll checks, insurance refunds, and checks from individuals.

The main drawback is that you must go during business hours, which are usually 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and limited hours on Saturday. If the check is from a small local bank or credit union, you may need to find a branch near you. If you're out of state or the bank has no nearby branch, this option won't work.

Check-cashing stores and their fees

Check-cashing stores are businesses that specialize in cashing checks for people without bank accounts. They charge a fee based on the check amount—typically 1 to 3 percent, though some charge a flat fee instead. On a $500 check, you might pay $5 to $15. The exact fee varies by location and the type of check, so ask before you hand over the check.

Check-cashing stores are open longer than banks, often until 7 or 8 p.m. on weekdays and on Saturday mornings. You'll need a photo ID and sometimes a second form of ID or proof of address. The money is available when ready, in cash. To find one near you, search "check cashing near me" or look for ACE Cash Express, Check Into Cash, or CheckSmart locations in your area.

Some check-cashing stores also offer other services like bill payment, money transfers, and payday loans. Be cautious with payday loans—they carry very high interest rates and can trap you in debt. Stick to the check-cashing service only.

Grocery stores and pharmacies that cash checks

Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, and many other grocery chains cash personal checks at their customer service desk. The fee is usually $3 to $5 per check or a small percentage of the amount. Hours vary by store but typically run from early morning until the store closes. You'll need a photo ID and sometimes a store loyalty card or phone number on file.

This option works well if you're already shopping or live near a grocery store. The fees are often lower than check-cashing stores. However, not every location cashes checks—call ahead or ask at the customer service desk to confirm. Some stores have limits on the check amount or the number of checks you can cash per day.

Mobile payment apps and remote check deposit

If you have a smartphone, you can deposit a personal check into PayPal, Square Cash, Venmo, or your bank's mobile app by taking photos of the front and back. The money usually appears in your account within one to three business days. There is no fee for this service at most banks and apps, though some charge a small amount for when ready access.

The catch is that you need a bank account or digital wallet to receive the money. You also can't get cash when ready—the funds sit in your account until you withdraw them or spend them. This option works best if you're not in a hurry and already use one of these apps. If you need cash today, use a check-cashing store or grocery store instead.

What to bring and what to avoid

Bring a photo ID to any location where you cash a check. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport works. Some check-cashing stores ask for a second form of ID, such as a utility bill or lease showing your current address. Ask what they need before you go.

Do not sign the back of the check until you're at the location where you're cashing it. The person cashing the check will ask you to sign it in front of them. If you sign it early and lose it, someone else could cash it. Also, do not accept a check that is post-dated (dated in the future) or stale-dated (more than six months old)—most places won't cash it, and it may not be legal to do so.

Comparing your options by cost and speed

Location	Fee	Speed	Hours	What You Need
Issuing bank	Free	when ready	Business hours, limited Saturday	Photo ID
Check-cashing store	1–3% of check	when ready	Extended, often until 7–8 p.m.	Photo ID, sometimes second ID
Grocery store	$3–$5 flat or small %	when ready	Store hours	Photo ID, sometimes loyalty card
Mobile app	Free or small fee	1–3 business days	Anytime	Bank account or digital wallet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check at a bank where I don't have an account?

Yes, if it's the bank that issued the check. Go to any branch of that bank with your photo ID and the check. They will cash it for free. If it's a different bank, they may refuse or charge you a fee, so call ahead to ask.

What if I don't have a photo ID?

Most places will not cash a check without a photo ID. If you don't have one, explore for a state ID card at your local DMV or equivalent office. In the meantime, ask a friend or family member to cash the check for you and give you the money, though this carries the risk that they could keep it.

How much does it cost to cash a check at a check-cashing store?

Fees typically range from 1 to 3 percent of the check amount, though some stores charge a flat fee of $3 to $10. On a $1,000 check, you might pay $10 to $30. Call ahead or ask at the counter before you hand over the check so you know the exact cost.

Can I cash a check that's dated in the future?

No. A post-dated check (one dated in the future) should not be cashed before that date. Most businesses will refuse to cash it. If someone post-dated a check to you, wait until the date on the check arrives before you try to cash it.

Is it safe to use a check-cashing store?

Yes, check-cashing stores are regulated by state law and are a safe way to get cash. However, avoid taking out a payday loan or other high-interest products they may offer. Stick to the check-cashing service only, and compare fees at a few stores near you before you choose one.