You can cash checks at grocery stores, check-cashing businesses, and the bank that issued the check, even without your own account
If you don't have a bank account, you have several real places to turn a check into cash. The fastest and cheapest option depends on what kind of check it is, where you are, and how much you're willing to pay in fees. Some places charge nothing; others take a percentage of the check amount. The issuing bank — the one printed on the check — will always cash it for free if you go in person with ID, but other routes may be closer or faster.
Key Takeaways
- The bank that issued the check will cash it for free at any of their branches if you show a government ID, even if you don't have an account there.
- Grocery stores and pharmacies with check-cashing services usually charge $2 to $5 per check and are often open longer than banks.
- Check-cashing businesses charge higher fees — typically 1 to 3 percent of the check amount — but accept checks banks might refuse.
- Prepaid card companies and some money transfer services offer check-cashing through their apps, though fees and speed vary.
- Always bring a government-issued ID; no place will cash a check without one.
Cashing a check at the issuing bank for free
The bank printed on the front of your check will cash it at no charge. Walk into any branch of that bank with your check and a government ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. You don't need an account. The teller will verify the check and give you cash on the spot, usually within minutes.
This is the cheapest route, but it only works during business hours, and you need to find a branch near you. Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some Saturday hours. If the check is from a small local bank or credit union, you may have fewer branch locations to choose from.
Grocery stores and pharmacy check-cashing counters
Many grocery stores and pharmacies — including Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, and CVS — have check-cashing services at their customer service desk. They typically charge $2 to $5 per check, depending on the check amount and your location. The fee is usually lower for smaller checks. You'll need your ID and the check itself.
The main advantage is convenience: these stores are often open early, stay open late, and are located in neighborhoods where banks may not be. The downside is the fee and the fact that they may refuse checks they consider high-risk — for example, a check from someone they don't recognize, or a check for a very large amount. Call ahead to confirm they offer check-cashing and ask about their fee structure.
Check-cashing businesses and payday loan stores
Dedicated check-cashing businesses exist in most cities and towns. They charge higher fees than grocery stores — typically 1 to 3 percent of the check amount. On a $500 check, that could be $5 to $15. However, they are more likely to cash checks that banks or grocery stores refuse, such as personal checks from people you don't know, post-dated checks, or checks with minor issues.
These businesses are also more flexible about hours and ID requirements. Some will cash checks even if your ID is expired, though they may charge extra. Search online for "check cashing near me" to find locations. Read reviews and call ahead to ask about their fees and what types of checks they accept.
Mobile check-cashing through apps and prepaid cards
Some prepaid card companies and money transfer services let you photograph a check with your phone and deposit it into a prepaid account, which you can then withdraw as cash. Services like Chime, NetSpend, and some versions of Green Dot offer this feature. Fees vary — some charge nothing, others charge $1 to $3 per check.
The catch is that you need a prepaid card account first, which requires an ID and usually a small deposit or set up fee. The check deposit also takes time — often one to three business days — so this isn't a same-day cash option. However, if you already have a prepaid card, it can be the cheapest way to cash checks at any time, day or night.
What to bring and what to expect
Every place that cashes checks requires a government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. Some places may ask for a second form of ID or your phone number. Bring the check itself and be prepared to sign the back of it in front of the teller or cashier — they need to see you endorse it.
If the check is made out to someone else, most places will refuse it. If it's made out to you but your name on the check doesn't match your ID exactly, you may have trouble. For example, if your check says "John Smith" but your ID says "John Michael Smith," call ahead and ask whether they'll accept it. Some places are strict; others are flexible.
When a place refuses to cash your check
Banks and check-cashing businesses can refuse any check they think is risky. Common reasons include a check that's more than six months old, a check with a post-dated date (a future date), a check with writing or damage, or a check from someone with a history of bounced checks. If one place says no, try another — different businesses have different rules.
If you're stuck, contact the person or business that wrote the check and ask them to write you a new one, or ask if they can pay you another way. You can also ask the issuing bank directly whether they'll cash it; sometimes they will even if a check-cashing business won't.
Comparing costs and speed
| Option | Cost | Speed | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Free | Same day (minutes) | Business hours only |
| Grocery store or pharmacy | $2–$5 per check | Same day (minutes) | Extended hours |
| Check-cashing business | 1–3% of check amount | Same day (minutes) | Often extended hours |
| Mobile app or prepaid card | $0–$3 per check | 1–3 business days | 24/7 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check made out to someone else?
No. Most places will not cash a check unless it's made out to you or has your name on it. If someone wants to give you money via check, ask them to write it in your name. If the check is already written to someone else, that person would need to endorse it to you, and even then, many businesses refuse third-party checks.
What if my ID is expired?
Banks and most grocery stores will not accept an expired ID. Check-cashing businesses are sometimes more flexible and may accept an expired ID if it's still recognizable and you have another form of ID. Call ahead to ask. If you don't have a valid ID, you'll need to get one before you can cash a check anywhere.
How long does a check take to clear?
When you cash a check in person at a bank, grocery store, or check-cashing business, you get the cash when ready. The check itself clears (the money comes out of the writer's account) within one to three business days. Mobile check deposits take longer — usually one to three business days before the money is available.
Can I cash a check if it's torn or damaged?
It depends on the damage. Minor tears or marks usually aren't a problem. Damage that makes the routing number, account number, or amount hard to read will likely cause a refusal. If the check is damaged, contact the person who wrote it and ask for a replacement.
What's the difference between cashing and depositing a check?
Cashing means you get the money in cash when ready. Depositing means the money goes into an account (like a bank account or prepaid card) and you withdraw it later. Cashing is faster but gives you no record; depositing creates a paper trail but takes longer.