What United Check Cashing does

United Check Cashing is a chain of physical storefronts that cashes checks, typically for a fee based on the check amount. You bring a check and ID, pay the fee, and walk out with cash the same day. The company operates in multiple states, though not everywhere — availability depends on whether there is a location near you.

Unlike a bank, United Check Cashing does not require an account. You do not need to be a customer or have any prior relationship with them. The trade-off is that the fee is higher than what a bank would charge, and the service is simpler — they cash checks, and that is mostly what they do.

United Check Cashing also offers other services at some locations, including money transfers, bill payment, and payday loans. This guide focuses on check cashing, which is their primary service.

Key Takeaways

  • United Check Cashing charges a fee to cash your check, and the amount depends on the check size and your location.
  • You need a valid government-issued ID and the check must be made out to you or be a two-party check with both payees present.
  • The transaction happens the same day, and you receive cash immediately after the fee is deducted.
  • Fees are typically higher than a bank would charge, so comparing the cost to other options makes sense before you go.

What you need to bring and what happens during the transaction

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The check must be made out to you, or if it is a two-party check, both people named on it must be present with ID. United Check Cashing will not cash a check made out to someone else, even if they sign the back.

When you arrive, hand the check and ID to the cashier. They will examine the check for the date, amount, and signature. They will also verify your ID matches the name on the check. If everything looks correct, they will tell you the fee, deduct it from the check amount, and give you the remaining cash. The whole process usually takes a few minutes.

Some locations may place a hold on large checks or decline to cash checks that look altered or suspicious. If the check is from an account you do not have a relationship with, they may ask additional questions about where it came from.

How the fee is calculated

United Check Cashing charges a percentage of the check amount or a flat fee, depending on the check size and your location. Fees vary by state and sometimes by individual store, so there is no single number that applies everywhere. A small check might cost $2 to $5, while a larger check could cost $10 to $20 or more.

The best way to know the exact fee is to call the location nearest you or ask when you arrive. Some stores post their fee schedule in the window or on their website. If you are cashing a large check, the fee difference between United Check Cashing and a bank can be significant, so it is worth asking before you commit.

When United Check Cashing makes sense versus other options

United Check Cashing is fastest if you need cash the same day and do not have a bank account or do not want to use it. If you have a bank account, your bank will cash checks for free or for a much lower fee. Many banks cash checks for non-customers as well, though some charge a fee for that service.

Walmart, grocery stores, and other retailers also cash checks, sometimes for lower fees than United Check Cashing. If you are already shopping at one of those places, cashing your check there may be cheaper and more convenient. Some employers will cash paychecks on-site or through payroll services, which is free.

The main reason to use United Check Cashing is if none of those options are available to you — no bank account, no nearby retailer that cashes checks, and no employer service. In that case, the fee is the cost of getting cash the same day.

What types of checks United Check Cashing will and will not cash

United Check Cashing cashes personal checks, payroll checks, government checks, and business checks. They will not cash checks that are post-dated (dated in the future), checks with obvious alterations, checks that are very old (typically more than six months), or checks with missing information like a signature or amount.

Two-party checks — checks made out to two people — can be cashed if both people are present with ID. Checks made out to a business or organization cannot be cashed by an individual, even if they work there. If you are unsure whether your check is cashable, call ahead or bring it in and ask.

Finding a United Check Cashing location near you

United Check Cashing has locations in multiple states, but the chain is not nationwide. The easiest way to find a store is to search "United Check Cashing near me" online or visit their website if they have a location finder. You can also call directory assistance or search Google Maps.

Hours vary by location, so check before you go. Many stores are open on weekends and evenings, which is one reason people use them instead of banks. If you cannot find a United Check Cashing location nearby, look for other check-cashing services in your area or ask your bank whether they cash checks for non-customers.

What to do if your check is declined

If United Check Cashing declines to cash your check, ask why. Common reasons are that the check is post-dated, altered, missing information, or from an account with a history of fraud. If the reason is something you can fix — like a missing signature — you may be able to get the check corrected and return.

If the check itself is the problem (for example, it is written on a closed account), you will need to contact the person or business who wrote it and ask for a replacement. If you need cash urgently and cannot get the check cashed, consider whether a payday loan or advance from your employer is an option, though both come with their own costs and risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an account with United Check Cashing to use their service?

No. You do not need to be a customer or have any prior relationship with them. You simply bring a check and valid ID, pay the fee, and receive cash. Each transaction is independent.

Can I cash a check if it is made out to someone else?

No, not unless both people named on the check are present with ID. If only your name is on it, only you can cash it. Checks made out to businesses or organizations cannot be cashed by individuals.

How long does it take to cash a check at United Check Cashing?

The transaction usually takes a few minutes. You receive cash the same day. Large checks or checks that look suspicious may take longer or be declined while they verify the information.

What if the fee seems too high?

Compare the fee to what your bank charges, what nearby retailers charge, or whether your employer offers check-cashing services. If you use United Check Cashing regularly, opening a bank account may save you money over time, even if there is a small monthly fee.

Can I cash a post-dated check?

No. A post-dated check is one written for a future date. United Check Cashing will not cash it before that date arrives. If you need cash now, you will need a check dated today or earlier.