Your options for cashing a check without a bank account
You can cash a check at the bank or credit union that issued it, at a check-cashing store, at some retail locations, or through a mobile app. The bank that issued the check (the one printed on the front) will cash it for free if you have ID, even if you don't have an account there. Check-cashing stores charge a fee—usually 1 to 3 percent of the check amount—but are open longer hours and require less paperwork. Retail stores like Walmart, Target, and grocery chains cash checks for a flat fee, typically $2 to $5. Mobile apps like mobile check deposit (offered by some banks and fintech companies) let you photograph the check and deposit it to a temporary account, then withdraw cash.
The fastest option depends on what you have: an ID, a smartphone, or access to a specific store. The cheapest is always the issuing bank. The most convenient is often a retail location near you or a mobile app if you have a phone and can wait a day or two for the funds to clear.
Key Takeaways
- The bank that issued the check will cash it for free with a valid ID, regardless of whether you have an account.
- Check-cashing stores charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount but operate extended hours and have minimal requirements.
- Retail chains like Walmart and grocery stores cash checks for a flat fee of $2 to $5 and are often located near your home.
- Mobile check deposit apps let you photograph a check and withdraw cash within one to two business days, with no fee if you use the issuing bank's app.
- Bring a valid government-issued ID to any location; some places also require a second form of ID or a thumbprint.
Cashing at the bank that issued the check
The issuing bank is the one printed on the front of the check. Call the bank's customer service line or visit their website to find a branch near you. Walk in with your ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card—and hand the check to a teller. They will verify the check and give you cash on the spot. This takes 5 to 10 minutes and costs nothing.
You do not need an account at that bank. The bank is obligated to cash checks drawn on itself. If the check is large (usually over $5,000) or if the signature looks suspicious, the teller may ask questions or put a hold on the funds, but they will still cash it if everything checks out. Bring your ID and the check. That is all you need.
Check-cashing stores and their fees
Check-cashing stores are independent businesses that cash checks for a fee. They are open longer than banks—often until 8 or 9 p.m. and on weekends—and have minimal requirements. You will need a valid ID and sometimes a second form of ID or a thumbprint. The fee is usually 1 to 3 percent of the check amount. On a $500 check, that is $5 to $15.
Find check-cashing stores by searching online or asking at a local convenience store. They are common in urban and suburban areas but less common in rural areas. Some also offer money orders, bill payment, and payday loans, though those services carry their own fees and terms. Stick to cashing the check unless you need another service.
Retail stores that cash checks
Walmart, Target, grocery chains, and some pharmacies cash checks at the customer service desk. The fee is usually a flat $2 to $5, which is often cheaper than a check-cashing store, especially for large checks. Hours are the same as the store's regular hours, which are often longer than a bank's. You will need a valid ID.
Call ahead or check the store's website to confirm they cash checks and what their current fee is. Some stores have limits on check size or will not cash certain types of checks (like two-party checks or post-dated checks). Bring your ID and the check. The process takes 5 to 10 minutes at the customer service desk.
Mobile check deposit without a bank account
Some fintech companies and online banks offer mobile check deposit to users without a traditional bank account. You photograph the front and back of the check using your phone, and the app deposits it to a temporary account. You can then withdraw the cash at an ATM or transfer it to a prepaid card. This takes one to two business days and usually costs nothing.
Examples include services offered through some prepaid card companies and mobile payment apps. Check the app's terms to see if you need to create an account first and whether there are withdrawal fees. This option works best if you have a smartphone and can wait a day or two for the funds to clear. If you need cash immediately, use the issuing bank or a retail store instead.
What to bring and what to expect
At any location, bring a valid government-issued ID: a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Some places ask for a second form of ID, like a utility bill or credit card. A few check-cashing stores may ask for a thumbprint or a signature on the back of the check. This is normal and takes less than a minute.
The check must be signed by the person or business that issued it. If it is not signed, the teller will ask the issuer to sign it. If the check is made out to someone else, you cannot cash it—the payee must cash it themselves or sign it over to you (though many banks and stores no longer accept third-party checks). If the check is post-dated (dated in the future), most places will not cash it until that date arrives.
Comparing cost and speed across options
| Option | Cost | Speed | Hours | What You Need |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Free | Immediate | Bank hours (usually 9 a.m.–5 p.m.) | Valid ID |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of check amount | Immediate | Extended (often until 8–9 p.m.) | Valid ID, sometimes second ID |
| Retail store | $2–$5 flat fee | Immediate | Store hours (often 7 a.m.–10 p.m.) | Valid ID |
| Mobile check deposit | Free (usually) | 1–2 business days | Anytime (app-based) | Smartphone, valid ID to set up account |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check at a bank where I don't have an account?
Yes. The bank that issued the check (printed on the front) must cash it for free with a valid ID. Other banks may refuse or charge a fee. Always go to the issuing bank first.
What if the check is made out to two people?
Both people must be present with ID to cash it, or one person can sign it over to the other (though many banks and stores no longer accept third-party checks). Ask the location before you go.
Can I cash a check if I don't have an ID?
No. All locations require a valid government-issued ID. If you don't have one, you will need to get a state ID card or passport first, which takes time and costs money.
What happens if the check bounces after I cash it?
If the check is returned unpaid, the location that cashed it may ask you to repay the amount. The issuing bank is responsible, but you may be held liable by the check-cashing store or retailer. Ask about their policy before you cash it.
Is it cheaper to use a check-cashing store or a retail store?
Retail stores are usually cheaper for large checks (flat $2–$5 fee versus 1–3 percent). For small checks under $200, the fees are similar. The issuing bank is always free if you can get there during business hours.