You can cash a Fidelity check at your bank, credit union, or check-cashing service

A Fidelity check — whether it's a distribution from an investment account, a refund, or a transfer — is a regular bank check. You cash it the same way you would any other check: deposit it into your own bank account, take it to a teller at your bank or credit union, or use a check-cashing service. Fidelity does not cash checks directly for you.

The fastest route is usually your own bank or credit union, because they know your account and can often credit the funds the same business day or next morning. If you don't have a bank account, a check-cashing service will convert it to cash on the spot, though they charge a fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Deposit the check into your bank or credit union account for the fastest processing and no fee.
  • Mobile deposit through your bank's app lets you cash the check without visiting a branch.
  • Check-cashing services will convert it to cash immediately but charge a percentage fee, typically 1 to 3 percent of the check amount.
  • Some retailers like Walmart and grocery stores offer check-cashing services at their customer service desk, often for a flat fee rather than a percentage.
  • Fidelity cannot cash the check for you, but their customer service can confirm the check is legitimate if you have questions.

Depositing through your bank or credit union

This is the most common and cheapest way to cash a Fidelity check. Walk into any branch of your bank or credit union with the check and your ID, and a teller will deposit it into your account. The funds typically appear within one to two business days, though some banks credit checks the same day.

If you have a mobile banking app, you can skip the branch entirely. Open the app, find the mobile deposit or check deposit feature, take a photo of the front and back of the check, and submit it. The check will be deposited into your account without you leaving home. Processing time is usually the same — one to two business days.

You do not need to contact Fidelity to deposit a check they issued. The check is a standard bank instrument, and your bank handles the deposit on its own.

Using a check-cashing service

If you don't have a bank account or need cash immediately, a check-cashing service will convert the check to cash on the spot. These services are available at dedicated check-cashing storefronts, many grocery stores, Walmart, and some pharmacies. You'll need a valid ID and sometimes a second form of ID.

The fee varies by location and the check amount. Most charge between 1 and 3 percent of the check value — so cashing a $1,000 check might cost $10 to $30. Some retailers charge a flat fee instead, such as $5 or $10 per check, which can be cheaper for larger amounts. Ask the service what they charge before you hand over the check.

Check-cashing services do not verify that a Fidelity check is real; they assume it is. If you're unsure whether the check is legitimate, contact Fidelity's customer service first to confirm.

What to do if the check is damaged or unclear

If the check is torn, water-damaged, or the routing number or account number is hard to read, your bank may refuse to deposit it. In that case, contact Fidelity's customer service and explain the problem. They can issue a replacement check or arrange an electronic transfer to your bank account instead, which is often faster.

Do not attempt to repair or write on the check yourself. Banks will reject altered checks. Let Fidelity reissue it.

Depositing a check from an inherited or transferred Fidelity account

If you received a check from Fidelity because you inherited an account or received a distribution from a trust or beneficiary account, the process is the same — deposit it at your bank or use a check-cashing service. The source of the check does not change how you cash it.

If the check is large or the account transfer was complex, your bank may place a hold on the funds while they verify the check. This is normal and can take several business days. Ask your bank how long they typically hold large checks.

Cashing a Fidelity check without a bank account

If you don't have a bank account and don't want to use a check-cashing service, you have limited options. Some credit unions allow non-members to cash checks for a small fee, though policies vary. Call ahead to ask.

Opening a bank account is usually faster and cheaper than repeated check-cashing fees, especially if you receive checks regularly. Many banks offer no-fee checking accounts, and some credit unions have low or no minimum balance requirements.

If the check is lost or never arrived

If Fidelity mailed you a check and it never arrived, or you lost it before cashing it, contact Fidelity's customer service immediately. They can place a stop payment on the original check and issue a replacement. This usually takes a few business days.

Do not try to cash a check you know is lost or missing. Banks will reject it if Fidelity has stopped payment on it, and attempting to cash a check you don't have can create confusion with your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a Fidelity check at Fidelity itself?

No. Fidelity is an investment and brokerage firm, not a bank, and does not have teller services or cash handling. You must cash the check at a bank, credit union, or check-cashing service.

How long does it take for a deposited Fidelity check to clear?

Most checks clear within one to two business days. Large checks or checks from out-of-state banks may take longer. Your bank will tell you the expected date when you deposit it.

Will my bank charge me a fee to deposit a Fidelity check?

No. Banks do not charge customers to deposit checks. Check-cashing services and retailers do charge fees, but your own bank will not.

What if the check amount seems wrong?

Contact Fidelity's customer service before cashing the check. They can explain why the amount is what it is — it may be a partial distribution, a fee deduction, or a tax withholding. If there is an error, they can issue a corrected check.

Can I deposit a Fidelity check at an ATM?

Some ATMs accept check deposits, but not all. Check your bank's app or website to see if your ATM supports mobile deposit, or ask a teller which ATMs at your branch accept checks. Mobile deposit through the app is usually faster and more reliable.