You can cash a Wells Fargo check at a Wells Fargo branch, at other banks, at check-cashing stores, and at some retailers — each option has different costs and speed

The fastest and cheapest way is a Wells Fargo branch, where you can cash it for free whether or not you have an account there. If you don't have a branch nearby, other banks will cash it but may charge a fee ($5 to $15 is common). Check-cashing stores and retailers like Walmart and Target will also cash it, but they take a percentage of the check amount — usually 1 to 3 percent — which adds up quickly on larger checks.

The method you choose depends on whether you have a bank account, how far you're willing to travel, and how much the fee matters to you. A $100 check costs you nothing at Wells Fargo but might cost $2 to $3 at a check-cashing store.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo branches cash their own checks for free, even if you don't have an account with them.
  • Other banks will cash Wells Fargo checks but typically charge $5 to $15 per check.
  • Check-cashing stores and retailers like Walmart charge a percentage of the check amount, usually 1 to 3 percent.
  • You'll need a photo ID at any location, and some places require the check to be made out to you personally.

Cashing at a Wells Fargo branch

This is your no-cost option. Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with the check and a photo ID. You don't need to be a customer. The teller will verify the check is legitimate, confirm your ID matches the payee name, and give you cash on the spot. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

If the check is large — typically over $5,000, though the exact threshold varies by branch — the teller may ask questions about the source of the check or put a hold on part of the funds while they verify it. This is standard practice and protects both you and the bank. Bring documentation if you have it (an invoice, a letter, a contract) to speed this up.

Wells Fargo branches are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and many are open Saturday mornings. If you don't know where your nearest branch is, use the Wells Fargo branch locator on their website or call 1-800-869-3557.

Cashing at another bank

Most banks will cash checks drawn on other banks, including Wells Fargo checks. Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, and regional banks all do this. The fee is usually $5 to $15 per check, and you typically need to have an account at that bank. Some banks waive the fee for customers; others charge it to everyone.

Call ahead before you go. Ask the specific branch whether they cash third-party checks (checks made out to someone else), because many banks have stopped this practice due to fraud risk. If the check is made out to you, this won't be an issue.

Processing time is usually when ready, just like at Wells Fargo. Bring your photo ID and the check. If the check is very large, the bank may place a temporary hold on the funds while they verify it clears.

Check-cashing stores and retail locations

Check-cashing stores are designed for people without bank accounts. They cash checks on the spot, but they charge a percentage of the check amount — typically 1 to 3 percent. On a $500 check, that's $5 to $15. On a $1,000 check, it's $10 to $30. The fee is deducted from what you receive.

Walmart, Target, and some grocery stores also cash checks, usually for a flat fee of $3 to $6 per check. Walmart's fee is typically $3 for checks under $1,000 and $6 for checks $1,000 and over. These fees are often lower than check-cashing stores, especially on smaller checks.

You'll need a photo ID and the check must be made out to you. Processing is when ready. These locations are open longer hours than banks, including evenings and weekends, which can be convenient if you can't get to a bank during business hours.

What you need to bring

At any location, bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The name on your ID must match the name the check is made out to. If your name has changed (marriage, legal name change) and your ID doesn't reflect that yet, bring both your old and new legal documents to explain the discrepancy.

Bring the check itself, unsigned. Don't sign the back until you're at the location where you're cashing it. Some places will ask you to sign it in front of them; others will sign it for you. If you sign it early and then change your mind about where to cash it, you may not be able to use it elsewhere.

If the check is made out to two people (for example, "John Smith and Jane Smith"), both people typically need to be present with ID. If it's made out to a business, you'll need documentation showing you're authorized to cash it on behalf of that business.

Checks that are difficult to cash

A check with a post-dated date (a date in the future) cannot be cashed until that date arrives. Some locations will refuse it outright; others will hold it and process it on the date written. Ask before you leave.

A check that's more than six months old is considered stale-dated and most banks will refuse it. The check itself may say "void after 90 days" or similar language. If your check is old, contact the person or organization that issued it and ask for a replacement.

A check with a torn corner, water damage, or faded writing may be refused or held for verification. If the check is damaged but still readable, bring it anyway — many locations will still process it, especially if the routing number and account number are clear.

Cashing a check made out to someone else

If the check is made out to another person and they want you to cash it, that person must endorse (sign) the back of the check and write "Pay to the order of [your name]" above their signature. This is called a third-party check. You then sign below that.

Many banks and check-cashing stores no longer accept third-party checks because of fraud risk. Call ahead to confirm the location will take it. Wells Fargo branches typically will not cash third-party checks. Your best bet is a check-cashing store, though they may charge extra or refuse it depending on their policy.

The safest route is to have the original payee deposit the check into their own account and then transfer the money to you, or have them write you a new check in your name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Wells Fargo account to cash a Wells Fargo check?

No. Wells Fargo will cash their own checks for free at any branch, regardless of whether you have an account. You only need a photo ID and the check itself.

How long does it take to cash a check?

At a bank branch or check-cashing store, cashing is usually when ready — 5 to 15 minutes. If the check is very large or the teller has questions about it, they may place a hold and verify it first, which can take a few hours or a business day.

What if the check is made out to my business?

You'll need to show that you're authorized to cash checks on behalf of the business. Bring a business license, articles of incorporation, or a letter from the business owner authorizing you. Some banks will ask for a business account instead. Call ahead to find out what your specific location requires.

Can I cash a check if my ID name doesn't match the check exactly?

If the difference is minor (a nickname versus your legal name, or a recent name change), bring both your old and new ID or legal documents explaining the change. Most locations will work with you. If the names are very different, the location may refuse the check to prevent fraud.

What's the difference between cashing and depositing?

Cashing gives you the money when ready in cash. Depositing puts the money into a bank account, where it may take one to three business days to clear. If you don't have a bank account, cashing is your only option.