You can get a cashier's check from a check-cashing store, money transmitter, or prepaid card issuer—you do not need a traditional bank account
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the institution's own account and signed by an authorized officer, which makes it more secure than a personal check. If you do not have a bank account, you have three main routes: a check-cashing store, a money transmitter like Western Union or MoneyGram, or a prepaid card company. Each charges a fee—typically $5 to $15—and each has different speed and availability. The fastest option is usually a check-cashing store in your neighborhood, which can issue one in minutes if you bring cash or a debit card.
The key difference from a bank is that these services do not hold your money in an account. You walk in, hand over cash or pay with a card, and they issue the check immediately. You will need a government-issued ID and the exact amount you want the check for, plus the name of the person or business it should be made out to.
Key Takeaways
- Check-cashing stores issue cashier's checks on the spot for a flat fee, usually $5 to $15, and do not require a bank account.
- Money transmitters like Western Union and MoneyGram offer cashier's checks at many locations, though fees and availability vary by branch.
- Prepaid card companies and some retail chains (like Walmart or Target) can issue cashier's checks if you load money onto a card first.
- You will need a government-issued photo ID and must know the exact amount and the payee's name before you arrive.
- Processing takes minutes to hours depending on the provider, but the check itself is valid immediately once issued.
Check-cashing stores are usually the fastest and most straightforward option
A check-cashing store will issue a cashier's check directly from their own account. Walk in with cash or a debit card, tell them the amount and who the check should be made out to, and they will print and sign it. The fee is typically a flat $5 to $15, though some stores charge a small percentage of the check amount instead. The whole process takes 5 to 15 minutes.
The main limitation is that you need to find a location near you. Check-cashing stores are common in urban and suburban areas but less common in rural regions. You can search online for "check cashing near me" or call ahead to confirm they issue cashier's checks—not all do. Bring your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and the exact cash or a debit card with sufficient funds.
One thing to watch: some check-cashing stores will only issue a cashier's check if you are also cashing a check with them, or if you have an existing customer relationship. Call first to avoid a wasted trip.
Money transmitters like Western Union and MoneyGram offer cashier's checks at many locations
Western Union and MoneyGram operate thousands of locations inside grocery stores, pharmacies, and dedicated offices. Both can issue cashier's checks, though not every location offers this service—you will need to call or check their website first. Fees are usually $5 to $10, and the check is issued the same day.
The process is similar to a check-cashing store: you bring cash or a debit card, provide your ID, and specify the amount and payee. Western Union's website has a location finder that shows which branches near you offer cashier's checks. MoneyGram's locator works the same way. Processing time is typically 10 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is.
The advantage is wider availability—you may find a Western Union inside a Walmart or grocery store closer to you than a dedicated check-cashing store. The disadvantage is that not all locations offer the service, so you cannot assume you can walk in and get one without checking first.
Prepaid card companies and retail chains can issue cashier's checks if you load money first
Some prepaid card companies, like NetSpend or Chime, allow you to request a cashier's check through their app or customer service. You load money onto the card, then request the check. The issuer mails it to you, which takes 5 to 10 business days. Fees vary by company but are often $5 to $10.
Walmart and Target also offer cashier's checks at their customer service desks if you have a Walmart or Target prepaid card, or in some cases if you pay with cash or a debit card. Fees are typically $3 to $5. Call your local store first to confirm they offer this service and what payment methods they accept.
The main drawback is timing: if you need the check today, a prepaid card company will not work because they mail it. Retail chains are faster—usually same-day if you go in person—but availability is limited to stores that offer the service. Check with your card issuer or local store before making the trip.
What you need to bring and what happens after you get the check
Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID). You will also need the exact dollar amount the check should be for and the full name of the person or business it should be made out to. If you are unsure of the payee's legal name, ask them to confirm it in writing or by email—a check made out to the wrong name may not be accepted.
Once you have the check, it is valid immediately. The recipient can deposit or cash it right away. There is no waiting period. The check is drawn on the issuer's account, so the recipient does not have to worry about insufficient funds—that is why cashier's checks are considered safer than personal checks.
Keep your receipt. If the check is lost or stolen before the recipient cashes it, you may be able to stop payment or request a replacement, but the process and fees vary by issuer. Some charge $15 to $25 for a stop-payment request.
Fees and timing vary by provider—compare before you go
| Provider | Typical Fee | Speed | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check-cashing store | $5–$15 flat | 5–15 minutes | Urban/suburban areas |
| Western Union | $5–$10 | 10–30 minutes | Thousands of locations |
| MoneyGram | $5–$10 | 10–30 minutes | Thousands of locations |
| Prepaid card company | $5–$10 | 5–10 business days (mailed) | Online/app request |
| Walmart/Target | $3–$5 | Same day | Participating stores only |
Fees add up if you need cashier's checks regularly. If you do, opening a bank account—even a basic checking account with no minimum balance—may save you money over time. Many banks and credit unions offer free or low-cost checking accounts with no monthly fee.
If you are in a rural area or have limited access to these services, call ahead to multiple providers. Some may be willing to issue a check by mail if you send them a money order or arrange a wire transfer, though this adds time and cost.
What to do if you cannot find a cashier's check service nearby
If no check-cashing stores, Western Union, or MoneyGram locations are within reach, you have a few alternatives. Some credit unions issue cashier's checks to non-members for a fee (usually $10 to $15). Call local credit unions and ask. You do not need to be a member.
Another option is to ask the person or business you are paying whether they will accept a money order instead. A money order is similar to a cashier's check but issued by the post office, grocery stores, or check-cashing stores, and is often cheaper ($1 to $5). Money orders are widely accepted for rent, utility bills, and loan payments.
If the payee absolutely requires a cashier's check and you have no local options, you can request one by mail from a money transmitter or prepaid card company, though this takes 5 to 10 business days and may cost more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check if I do not have an ID?
No. All check-cashing stores, money transmitters, and prepaid card companies require a government-issued photo ID to issue a cashier's check. This is a federal requirement to prevent fraud and money laundering. If you do not have an ID, you will need to get one first—contact your state's DMV or a passport office.
What if the check-cashing store or Western Union location is closed when I need the check?
Check their hours online before you go. Many check-cashing stores and Western Union locations stay open until 6 or 7 p.m. on weekdays and have Saturday hours, but not all do. If you need a check urgently and your nearest location is closed, call ahead to find another branch or try a different provider like MoneyGram or Walmart.
Can I get a cashier's check for more than a certain amount?
Most check-cashing stores and money transmitters will issue cashier's checks for any amount, but very large checks (over $10,000) may trigger additional verification or reporting requirements. Call ahead if you need a check for a large amount. Some providers may ask for additional ID or documentation.
Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?
No. A cashier's check is drawn on the institution's account and signed by an officer. A certified check is your personal check that your bank has verified and stamped as certified. Cashier's checks are considered more secure because the institution guarantees the funds. If you have a bank account, you can get a certified check from your bank for a similar fee.
What if I lose the cashier's check before the recipient cashes it?
Contact the issuer immediately and ask about a stop-payment or replacement. Most will issue a replacement for a fee ($15 to $25), but you may need to sign an affidavit stating the check was lost. Keep your receipt so you can prove you purchased it.