Walmart's checking account does not send you physical checks
Walmart's checking account, offered through Walmart MoneyCard (a prepaid debit card product), does not come with a checkbook or the ability to write checks. The account is designed as a debit card product, not a traditional checking account with check-writing privileges. If you need to send money to someone or pay a bill by check, you will need to use a different method.
This is a key difference between Walmart's product and a full-service checking account from a bank. Many people assume all checking accounts include check-writing, but Walmart's version is built around the debit card as the primary way to access your money.
Key Takeaways
- Walmart MoneyCard does not include check-writing or physical checks, even though it functions like a checking account in other ways.
- You can transfer money out of your Walmart account to another bank account, which is the closest alternative to writing a check.
- If you regularly need to pay by check, a traditional bank checking account or a credit union account will serve you better than Walmart's product.
- Walmart's account does include a debit card, online bill pay, and direct deposit, which cover most of the reasons people write checks.
What you can do instead of writing checks
Walmart MoneyCard offers several ways to move money without a checkbook. You can set up direct transfers to another bank account you own, which typically takes one to three business days. You can also use the account's bill pay feature to send money directly to companies and service providers—utilities, insurance, rent, loan payments, and similar bills can all be paid this way through the Walmart app or website.
For payments to individuals, you can transfer money to their bank account if you have their routing and account numbers, or you can use a peer-to-peer payment app like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App if the person has an account there. These methods are often faster than mailing a check anyway.
When you might need a different account
Some situations still require actual checks. Landlords sometimes refuse electronic payments and demand a check. Certain government agencies or older businesses may only take checks. If you need to send a check to someone who does not have a bank account, you cannot do it from Walmart's account.
If check-writing is something you do regularly—more than a few times a year—a traditional checking account from a bank or credit union will be more practical. Many banks offer free checking accounts with no monthly fee, and they include a checkbook as part of the package. You can compare options at your local bank, a credit union, or online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Chime, many of which also offer no-fee checking.
How Walmart's account moves money in and out
Money enters your Walmart account through direct deposit (from an employer or government agency), transfers from another bank account you own, or by loading cash at a Walmart register. Money leaves through the debit card, ATM withdrawals, transfers to another bank account, or bill pay. The account also allows you to receive money from other people if they know your account details, though this is less common than using a debit card or app-based transfer.
All of these methods work without checks. The debit card is the main tool—you can use it anywhere Visa is accepted, online and in stores. For bills and regular payments, the bill pay feature handles most of what checks used to do.
Fees and limits on transfers
Walmart MoneyCard charges a monthly fee (currently around $3 to $5 depending on the plan you choose), though some plans waive the fee if you meet certain requirements like setting up direct deposit. Transfers to other banks are usually free, but some may take longer than others depending on the receiving bank.
There are limits on how much you can transfer or withdraw in a single day—these vary by account type and your history with Walmart, but typically range from $500 to $2,000 per day. If you need to move a large amount, you may need to split it across multiple days or contact Walmart customer service to request a higher limit.
Comparing Walmart's account to a traditional checking account
| Feature | Walmart MoneyCard | Traditional Bank Checking |
|---|---|---|
| Write checks | No | Yes |
| Debit card | Yes | Yes |
| Bill pay | Yes | Yes |
| Direct deposit | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly fee | $3–$5 (varies by plan) | $0–$15 (many banks offer free) |
| FDIC insurance | No (prepaid card) | Yes (up to $250,000) |
The main trade-off is that Walmart's account is cheaper to open and easier to get if you have a thin credit history, but it does not include FDIC deposit insurance and does not offer checks. A traditional checking account from a bank gives you more protection and check-writing, but may have higher fees or stricter approval requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a checkbook for my Walmart MoneyCard?
No. Walmart MoneyCard is not designed to support checks, and the company does not offer checkbooks for this product. If you need check-writing, you will need to open a checking account at a bank or credit union instead.
What if someone sends me a check and I have a Walmart account?
You can deposit checks into your Walmart MoneyCard account through the mobile app using mobile check deposit, or by taking the check to a Walmart store and asking to deposit it at the money services desk. The funds typically appear in your account within one to three business days.
Can I use bill pay to pay rent or a mortgage?
Yes. Walmart's bill pay feature can send money to landlords, mortgage servicers, and most other payees. You will need the payee's mailing address, and the payment typically arrives within three to five business days, so plan ahead if your due date is soon.
Is Walmart MoneyCard safer than a regular checking account?
Walmart MoneyCard is not FDIC insured, which means your money is not protected by federal deposit insurance if Walmart or the card issuer fails. A bank checking account is FDIC insured up to $250,000 per account holder. For large balances, a bank account offers more legal protection.
Can I transfer money from Walmart MoneyCard to pay someone else's bills?
You can transfer money to another person's bank account if you have their routing and account numbers, but you cannot directly pay their bills from your Walmart account. They would need to receive the transfer and pay their own bills. For paying someone's bills on their behalf, you would need their permission and account details.