EZ Money is a check-cashing chain, not a bank or loan service

EZ Money operates physical locations where you can cash checks for a fee. The company has stores in multiple states, primarily in the South and Midwest, and charges a percentage of the check amount or a flat fee depending on the check type and your location. Unlike a bank, EZ Money does not hold your money in an account, does not offer savings or checking services, and does not report your activity to credit bureaus.

If you need to cash a check and do not have a bank account, or if your bank is closed, EZ Money is one option among several. But the cost matters — check-cashing fees can add up quickly if you use them regularly instead of a bank account or alternative service.

Key Takeaways

  • EZ Money charges a percentage fee or flat fee to cash checks, and the amount varies by location and check type.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID to cash any check at EZ Money.
  • Payroll checks, government checks, and personal checks all have different fee structures at most EZ Money locations.
  • If you cash checks regularly, a basic bank account or online bank account typically costs less over time than repeated check-cashing fees.

What ID and documents you need to bring

EZ Money requires a valid government-issued photo ID to cash any check. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Without it, the location will not cash your check, so bring it every time.

You do not need to be a customer or have any prior relationship with EZ Money. You simply walk in with the check and your ID, and if the check passes their verification process, you pay the fee and receive cash. The entire transaction usually takes a few minutes.

How much EZ Money charges for check cashing

EZ Money's fees vary by location and check type. Payroll checks typically have a lower fee than personal checks, and government checks (like tax refunds or Social Security) may have different rates. Some locations charge a flat fee — for example, $3 to $5 per check — while others charge a percentage of the check amount, usually between 1% and 5%.

Because fees differ by store and by state, you should call your local EZ Money location or visit in person to ask what they charge for the specific type of check you want to cash. Comparing that fee to what a bank or credit union would charge (many offer free check cashing to non-members) can help you decide whether it makes sense for your situation.

When EZ Money might refuse to cash a check

EZ Money will not cash a check if the ID does not match the name on the check, if the check is post-dated (written for a future date), if the check appears altered or forged, or if the check is too old. Most check-cashing services will not cash checks older than 180 days, though policies vary.

If the check is from a business account or a personal account that has a history of bounced checks, EZ Money may also decline. They verify checks electronically before cashing them, so if the account does not have sufficient funds or if the account is flagged, the transaction will not go through.

Alternatives that may cost less

If you do not have a bank account, a credit union account, or an online bank account, those are usually cheaper than repeated check cashing. Many credit unions and online banks offer free check cashing to members, and some do not charge monthly fees. Opening an account takes 15 to 30 minutes online or in person.

Some employers also offer direct deposit, which puts your paycheck into an account automatically — no check cashing needed. If your employer offers this, it is almost always the cheapest option because there is no fee at all.

Walmart and some grocery stores also cash checks for a fee, and their rates are sometimes lower than EZ Money. It is worth calling ahead to compare before you decide where to go.

What happens if a check bounces after you cash it

If you cash a check at EZ Money and the check later bounces — meaning the account did not have enough money — EZ Money may ask you to repay the amount. Some locations will deduct the amount from a future check you cash there, while others may pursue collection. This is rare because EZ Money verifies checks before cashing them, but it can happen if the account is closed or frozen after verification but before the check clears.

You are not responsible for the bank's mistake, but you may be responsible if you knowingly cashed a bad check. If EZ Money contacts you about a bounced check, ask for documentation of the bounce and review it carefully before paying anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check made out to someone else at EZ Money?

No. The name on the check must match the name on your ID. If someone else wrote you a check, they would need to be present with their ID, or they would need to sign the back and you would need to sign below their signature — but EZ Money may still decline to cash a third-party check. Call ahead to ask your local store's policy.

What if I do not have a government ID?

EZ Money will not cash a check without a valid photo ID. If you do not have one, you can apply for a state ID card at your local DMV or equivalent office. The process usually takes a few weeks and costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state.

Does EZ Money cash checks on weekends?

Most EZ Money locations are open on Saturdays, but hours vary by store. Some close on Sundays. Call your local store or check their website for hours before you go.

Can I cash a check online with EZ Money?

No. EZ Money operates physical locations only. You must visit a store in person with your ID and the check to cash it.