Key Takeaways
- Banks and credit unions cash checks for free if you have an account with them, and many will cash a check from another institution for a small fee even if you don't.
- Grocery stores and retailers like Walmart and Target often cash checks for free or a flat fee of a few dollars, with no account required.
- Check-cashing stores charge a percentage of the check amount — typically 1 to 3 percent — making them the most expensive option for large checks.
- You will need a valid government ID at any location, and some places have limits on the check amount they will cash.
- Cashing a check takes minutes at most locations, but some banks may place a hold on the funds for a day or two.
Banks and Credit Unions
If you have a checking or savings account at a bank or credit union, cashing your own checks is free. The teller will verify your ID and hand you cash on the spot, or deposit it directly into your account if you prefer. Most banks and credit unions will also cash checks drawn on other institutions for a small fee — usually $5 to $10 — even if you don't have an account with them. Call ahead to confirm the fee and whether they have a limit on the check amount.
Credit unions are often more flexible than banks about cashing checks for non-members, especially if you live in a town where that credit union is the main financial institution. Some credit unions participate in shared branching networks, meaning you can walk into a different credit union and use their services as if it were your own branch.
Grocery Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Walmart, Target, and most grocery store chains cash checks at their customer service desk with no account required. The fee is usually free or a flat $2 to $4, and the process takes a few minutes. You will need a valid government ID — a driver's license, state ID, or passport. Some stores have a limit on the check amount, often $1,000 to $5,000, so ask before you hand over the check.
Grocery stores are particularly reliable for this because they already handle cash and have security systems in place. Smaller independent grocers may or may not offer the service, so call first. The advantage over a bank is that these stores have longer hours, including evenings and weekends, and you don't need to open an account.
Check-Cashing Stores
Dedicated check-cashing businesses will cash almost any check, but they charge a percentage of the amount — typically 1 to 3 percent. On a $500 check, that's $5 to $15. On a $2,000 check, it's $20 to $60. The fee is highest for personal checks and lower for payroll checks, which are considered lower risk. Some stores also charge an additional fee if you want the money in a specific form, like a money order.
Check-cashing stores are useful when you have no other option — for instance, if you need cash after hours or if the check is too large for a grocery store to handle. But they should be your last choice because of the cost. Many check-cashing stores also offer payday loans and other high-fee financial products; cashing a check there does not obligate you to use those services.
Online Banks and Mobile Payment Apps
Some online banks and mobile payment apps like Square Cash, PayPal, and Chime allow you to photograph a check and deposit it directly into your account from your phone. This is called mobile check deposit. The funds usually appear in your account within one to three business days, though some apps offer faster clearing for a fee.
Mobile deposit is convenient if you have a smartphone and a bank account, but it doesn't give you cash immediately — you get a digital deposit instead. If you need physical cash right away, you can withdraw it from an ATM after the deposit clears, but that takes time. This option works best if you can wait a day or two for the money.
What You Need to Bring
Every location that cashes checks will ask for a valid government-issued ID. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. Some places may also ask for a second form of ID or a phone number to verify your identity, especially for large checks. A few check-cashing stores may ask for a thumbprint or signature on file if you are a regular customer.
Bring the check itself and make sure it is signed by the person or business that issued it. If the check is made out to you, sign the back. If it is made out to someone else and they want you to cash it for them, they will need to sign the back and write "Pay to the order of [your name]" — this is called a third-party check, and many places will not accept it because of fraud risk. Ask first before you try.
Holds and Timing
Most grocery stores and check-cashing stores give you cash immediately. Banks and credit unions may place a hold on the funds for one to two business days, especially if the check is large or drawn on a bank far away. During a hold, the money is in your account but you cannot withdraw it yet. The bank is verifying that the check is real and that the account it is drawn on has enough money to cover it.
If you need cash right away, ask the teller whether they will release the funds immediately or if a hold will apply. Some banks will waive the hold for customers in good standing or for smaller checks. Check-cashing stores and retailers do not place holds — you get the cash and leave.
Comparing Your Options
| Location | Fee | Speed | Account Required | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Your own bank | Free | Immediate or 1–2 days | Yes | Business hours |
| Other bank (non-member) | $5–$10 | Immediate or 1–2 days | No | Business hours |
| Credit union | Free to $10 | Immediate or 1–2 days | Varies | Business hours |
| Grocery store or retailer | Free to $4 | Immediate | No | Extended hours |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of check | Immediate | No | Extended hours |
| Mobile deposit | Free | 1–3 business days | Yes | Anytime |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check made out to someone else?
Most places will not cash a third-party check because of fraud risk. If the person who the check is made out to signs the back and writes "Pay to the order of [your name]," some retailers and check-cashing stores may accept it, but you should call first. Banks almost never accept third-party checks.
What if the check is damaged or torn?
A slightly damaged check is usually fine — the teller just needs to be able to read the routing number, account number, and amount. If the damage is severe or affects the signature or amount, the issuer may need to issue a replacement check. Ask the location where you are trying to cash it whether they will accept it.
Do I need an account to cash a check at a bank?
No. Most banks will cash a check drawn on their own institution for free if you have an account, and for a small fee if you don't. Some banks have stricter policies, so call ahead. Credit unions are often more flexible about cashing checks for non-members.
How long does a check hold last?
A hold typically lasts one to two business days, but can be longer for large checks or checks drawn on distant banks. Banks must release funds by the deadline set by federal law, which is usually five business days for most checks. Ask your bank what their specific policy is.
Is it cheaper to use a check-cashing store or a bank?
A bank is cheaper if you have an account there — the fee is free. If you don't have an account, a grocery store or retailer is usually cheaper than a check-cashing store because the fee is a flat amount rather than a percentage. For a large check, the percentage fee at a check-cashing store adds up quickly.