You can cash a Citibank check at any Citibank branch, at ATMs owned by Citibank, or at many other banks and retailers that accept third-party checks

The easiest place to cash a Citibank check is at a Citibank branch during business hours. You'll need a valid photo ID. If you have a Citibank account, you can also deposit the check into your account at any branch or through mobile deposit (if your account type supports it). If you don't have a Citibank account, the teller can cash it for you as a one-time transaction, though some branches may charge a fee for non-customers.

You're not limited to Citibank locations. Many other banks will cash a Citibank check if you're their customer. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and check-cashing services also cash checks, though they typically charge a fee and may have limits on the check amount. Walmart, Target, and most supermarkets with customer service desks cash checks for a flat fee, usually between $3 and $6 depending on the check amount.

Key Takeaways

  • Citibank branches will cash Citibank checks for free if you have an account, or for a fee if you don't.
  • If you have an account at another bank, that bank may cash your Citibank check at no charge.
  • Retail locations like Walmart and grocery stores cash checks for a flat fee, usually $3 to $6.
  • Mobile deposit through the Citibank app lets you deposit checks without visiting a branch, if your account supports it.
  • Check-cashing services charge a percentage of the check amount, typically 1 to 3 percent, and are usually more expensive than other options.

Cashing at a Citibank Branch

Walk into any Citibank branch with your check and a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Tell the teller you want to cash the check. If you have a Citibank account, there's no fee. The teller will verify the check and hand you cash on the spot, usually within a few minutes.

If you don't have a Citibank account, the branch can still cash it, but you may be charged a fee. The fee amount varies by branch and region; some branches waive it for one-time transactions, while others charge $5 to $10. Call your nearest branch ahead of time to ask about their non-customer check-cashing policy. You can find branch locations and hours on Citibank's website.

Using Your Own Bank to Cash a Citibank Check

If you have a checking or savings account at another bank, visit that bank's branch and ask if they'll cash your Citibank check. Many banks do this for their own customers at no charge. Some banks limit the amount or require the check to be drawn on a major bank (Citibank qualifies). A few banks charge a small fee even for customers, so it's worth asking first.

This option is often faster than finding a Citibank branch, especially if your bank is closer to you. You'll still need a photo ID. If your bank won't cash it, they can deposit it into your account instead, which takes one to two business days to clear.

Cashing at Retail Locations

Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, and most other large supermarkets have customer service desks that cash checks. The fee is usually a flat amount—$3 for checks under $1,000 and $6 for checks $1,000 and over, though this varies by store. You'll need a photo ID and sometimes a store loyalty card or phone number on file. The process takes just a few minutes.

Retail check-cashing is convenient if you're already shopping, but call ahead to confirm the store cashes third-party checks (checks not made out to you). Some locations have stopped this service or have restrictions on the types of checks they accept. Hours are usually longer than bank branches, including evenings and weekends.

Check-Cashing Services and Payday Lenders

Check-cashing storefronts will cash your Citibank check, but they charge a percentage of the check amount rather than a flat fee. Expect to pay 1 to 3 percent of the check's value. On a $500 check, that's $5 to $15. Some also charge a flat fee on top of the percentage. These services are most useful if no other option is available, because the cost adds up quickly.

Payday lenders and title loan companies also cash checks, but they often charge even higher fees and may pressure you into taking out a loan. Avoid these unless you have no other choice.

Mobile Deposit Through the Citibank App

If you have a Citibank checking account and your account type supports mobile deposit, you can photograph the front and back of the check using the Citibank mobile app and deposit it without visiting a branch. The check is deposited into your account, not cashed as cash in hand. The funds usually appear in your account within one to two business days.

Mobile deposit is free and the most convenient option if you need the money in your account rather than as cash when ready. Not all Citibank account types support this feature—basic savings accounts and some older account types may not. Check your app or call Citibank customer service to confirm your account is set up for mobile deposit.

What to Do if the Check Is Damaged or Unclear

If the check is torn, stained, or the numbers are hard to read, a teller may refuse to cash it. Bring it to a Citibank branch first—they're most likely to accept it because they can verify it against their records. If the branch won't cash it, contact the person or business who issued the check and ask them to issue a replacement.

Never try to alter or write over a damaged check. If a teller suspects the check has been tampered with, they'll reject it and may report it. A replacement check from the issuer is always the safest route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a Citibank check at an ATM?

Citibank ATMs do not dispense cash when you deposit a check—they only accept deposits. You must visit a branch or use mobile deposit to cash a check. ATMs can deposit checks into your account, which clears in one to two business days.

Do I need an account to cash a Citibank check?

No. Any Citibank branch will cash a Citibank check for a non-customer, though they may charge a fee. Your own bank will usually cash it for free if you have an account there. Retail locations and check-cashing services will also cash it for a fee.

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

In-branch cashing takes a few minutes. Mobile deposit takes one to two business days for the funds to appear in your account. Depositing at another bank or retailer also takes one to two business days if you're depositing rather than cashing.

What if the check is made out to someone else?

A check made out to another person is a third-party check. Most banks and retailers will not cash it. The person whose name is on the check should cash it themselves or deposit it into their own account. Some banks allow third-party deposits if the payee signs the back, but this is becoming less common due to fraud concerns.

Is there a limit on how much I can cash?

Citibank branches have no set limit for customers. Non-customers may face limits depending on the branch. Retail locations often cap check-cashing at $1,000 to $2,500. Check-cashing services may have higher limits but charge a percentage fee. Call ahead if you're cashing a large check.