You can cash a cashier's check at most places that handle money, even without a bank account
A cashier's check is a check written by a bank on its own account, not on someone else's account. Because the bank itself guarantees the money, most places will cash it for you without requiring you to have an account there. Your options include the bank that issued the check, other banks, check-cashing stores, and some grocery stores and retailers.
The catch is that each place has different rules about who they will serve, what documents they need, and what fees they charge. Some will cash it free; others will take a percentage. Knowing where to go first saves you time and money.
Key Takeaways
- The bank that issued the cashier's check will almost always cash it for free, even if you do not have an account there.
- Check-cashing stores will cash cashier's checks but typically charge a fee of 1 to 3 percent of the check amount.
- Grocery stores and retailers like Walmart often cash checks for customers, sometimes free and sometimes for a small flat fee.
- You will need a valid photo ID at any location, and some places may ask for a second form of identification.
- Calling ahead to confirm the location cashes checks and what they need from you prevents wasted trips.
The issuing bank is your best option
The bank whose name appears on the check — the one that issued it — will cash it for you at no charge, even if you have never done business with them. Walk into any branch with the check and a valid photo ID. That is all most banks require.
This is the fastest and cheapest route. There are no fees, no percentage taken out, and the teller can usually process it in minutes. If you do not know which bank issued the check, look at the top left corner of the check or ask the person who gave it to you.
Check-cashing stores charge a fee but are open longer
Check-cashing stores exist specifically to cash checks for people without bank accounts. They will cash your cashier's check, but they charge a fee — usually between 1 and 3 percent of the check amount. On a $1,000 check, that could be $10 to $30.
The advantage is that check-cashing stores often have longer hours than banks, including evenings and weekends. You will need a valid photo ID, and some stores ask for a second form of ID as well. Call ahead to ask what their fee is for cashier's checks specifically, because fees vary by location and by check type.
Grocery stores and retailers may cash checks for free or a flat fee
Many grocery stores, including Walmart, Target, and regional chains, cash checks as a service to customers. Some do this free; others charge a flat fee of $3 to $5 regardless of the check amount. Cashier's checks are usually treated the same as personal checks.
The downside is that not every location offers this service, and policies vary by store and by region. Call the customer service desk at your nearest store and ask whether they cash cashier's checks and what they charge. If they do, ask what ID you need to bring.
What to bring and what to expect
At any location, bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some places ask for a second form of ID as well, such as a utility bill or lease showing your current address. Have the cashier's check itself and be ready to sign the back of it if you have not already.
The teller or cashier will examine the check to make sure it is not damaged, that the amount is legible, and that it has not been altered. They will ask you to endorse it (sign the back) if you have not done so. The whole process usually takes 5 to 15 minutes.
What to do if a location refuses to cash it
If a store or bank declines to cash your check, ask why. Common reasons include: the check is damaged or illegible, it is more than six months old, or the location has a policy against cashing checks for non-customers. If the check is old or damaged, contact the person or organization that issued it and ask for a replacement.
If you are turned down at multiple locations, go to the bank that issued the check. They are required to cash their own checks for the person named on the check, regardless of whether you have an account there. Bring your ID and the check itself.
Comparing your options
| Location | Fee | Hours | What You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issuing bank | None | Bank hours (usually weekdays) | Photo ID |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of check amount | Often evenings and weekends | Photo ID, sometimes second ID |
| Grocery store or retailer | Free or $3–$5 flat fee | Store hours | Photo ID |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a cashier's check if it is made out to someone else?
No. A cashier's check is a negotiable instrument, and it must be cashed by the person whose name appears on it. If someone else needs to cash it, they will need a power of attorney or the original payee must sign the back and write "pay to the order of [other person's name]" — but most banks and check-cashing stores will not accept this without additional documentation.
What if the cashier's check is more than six months old?
Checks are considered stale after six months, and most banks and check-cashing stores will refuse them. Contact the issuer and ask for a replacement check. The issuing bank can usually issue a new one quickly if you have the original check number and amount.
Do I need to have a bank account to cash a cashier's check?
No. Because a cashier's check is may provide by the bank itself, not by an individual account holder, you do not need an account anywhere to cash it. The issuing bank will cash it for anyone with a valid photo ID.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
Most places will not cash a check without a photo ID. If you do not have one, explore for a state ID card at your local DMV or equivalent office. In the meantime, ask the person who gave you the check whether they can cash it for you or deposit it into their own account.
Can I deposit a cashier's check into someone else's account?
Yes, if you sign the back and write "pay to the order of [account holder's name]," the account holder can deposit it. However, some banks require the original payee to be present or to provide additional documentation. Call the bank first to ask what they need.