You can cash a cashier's check at most banks, but not always at your own bank if you don't have an account there

A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, signed by a bank employee, and backed by the bank's funds rather than an individual's. Because the bank guarantees the money, most banks will cash them. However, the bank that issued the check will always cash it for free. Banks where you don't have an account may cash it for a fee, refuse to cash it, or require you to open an account first.

The issuing bank is your best option. If you know which bank issued the check (the bank name appears in the top left corner), go there with a photo ID and the check. They will cash it on the spot, usually within minutes, at no charge. If you don't have an account at that bank, this is still your fastest and cheapest route.

Your own bank will almost always cash a cashier's check, even if it was issued by a different bank. Deposit it to your account, or ask a teller to cash it. If you deposit it, the funds may take one to two business days to clear, depending on your bank's policy. If you ask for cash over the counter, most banks will do this immediately for account holders.

Key Takeaways

  • The bank that issued the check will cash it for free with a photo ID, regardless of whether you have an account there.
  • Your own bank will cash a cashier's check from another bank, usually at no charge for account holders.
  • Non-account holders cashing checks at banks where they don't have accounts may face fees ranging from a few dollars to $15 or more, depending on the bank's policy.
  • Some banks refuse to cash checks for non-customers entirely, so calling ahead before you go is worth the time.
  • Credit unions and check-cashing services offer alternatives if your bank refuses, though fees are typically higher than bank fees.

Cashing at the bank that issued the check

The issuing bank has no reason to refuse you. The check is drawn on their account, they have already verified the funds, and cashing it costs them nothing. Go to any branch of that bank with your photo ID and the check. A teller will verify your identity and hand you the cash.

If the check is large—over $10,000—the bank will file a Currency Transaction Report (CTR) with the federal government. This is routine and not a sign of trouble. The bank is required to do this by law. It does not delay the transaction or prevent you from cashing the check.

If you cannot visit a branch in person, some banks allow you to deposit a cashier's check remotely using mobile check deposit. Take a photo of the front and back of the check with your phone, upload it through the bank's app, and the funds will appear in your account within one to two business days. This works only if the issuing bank is the same as your own bank.

Cashing at your own bank when it didn't issue the check

If you have an account at a different bank than the one that issued the check, your bank will almost certainly cash it for you. Walk in with the check and your debit card or ID, and ask a teller to cash it. Account holders typically pay no fee for this service.

The teller may ask you to endorse the check (sign the back) and provide your account number. Some banks will cash it immediately; others will deposit it to your account and give you the cash from your balance. If they deposit it, ask whether the funds are available immediately or if there is a hold. Most banks clear cashier's checks within one business day because they are considered low-risk.

If you prefer not to carry large amounts of cash, ask the teller to deposit the check to your account instead of cashing it. You can then withdraw the money later or transfer it elsewhere.

Cashing at a bank where you have no account

Banks are not required to cash checks for non-customers. Some will do it for a fee; others will refuse outright. Fees vary widely—anywhere from $3 to $15 or more per check, depending on the bank's policy. Call the bank before you go and ask whether they cash third-party checks and what the fee is.

Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo typically cash cashier's checks for non-customers, but they charge a fee. Smaller regional banks and credit unions are more likely to refuse. If you ask and they say no, do not argue—move to your next option.

If you decide to pay the fee, bring your photo ID and the check. The teller will verify the check, charge your fee, and give you the cash. The transaction takes a few minutes.

Using a credit union if you are a member

If you belong to a credit union, ask whether they will cash a cashier's check issued by a bank. Many credit unions will do this for members at no charge or for a small fee. Some credit unions are part of shared branching networks, which means you can visit other credit unions in the network and use their services.

Call your credit union first to confirm they cash cashier's checks and whether there is a fee. If they do, bring your membership card and photo ID along with the check.

Check-cashing services and other alternatives

Check-cashing stores will cash a cashier's check, but they charge a percentage of the check amount—typically 1 to 3 percent. On a $1,000 check, that is $10 to $30. This is more expensive than a bank fee, but it may be your only option if you need cash immediately and banks are closed.

Walmart and some grocery stores offer check-cashing services at customer service desks. Fees are usually lower than dedicated check-cashing stores, often $3 to $6 for a cashier's check. Call ahead to confirm they cash cashier's checks and what the fee is.

If you have a mobile check deposit option through your bank's app, that is usually the cheapest and fastest route. You do not have to visit a branch, and there is no fee. The check clears within one to two business days.

What to do if the check is lost or damaged

If a cashier's check is lost, stolen, or damaged before you cash it, contact the bank that issued it immediately. Bring your receipt or proof of purchase if you have it. The bank will place a stop payment on the original check and issue a replacement, usually at no charge. This process takes a few business days to a week.

If the check is damaged but still readable, most banks will cash it anyway. If it is torn, water-damaged, or illegible, the bank may ask you to submit a claim or wait for a replacement. Do not write on the check or alter it in any way—this can make it uncashable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an account at a bank to cash a cashier's check there?

No. The bank that issued the check will cash it for anyone with a photo ID. Your own bank will cash it if you are an account holder. Other banks may cash it for a fee or refuse entirely, depending on their policy.

How long does it take to cash a cashier's check?

At the issuing bank or your own bank, cashing takes a few minutes if you ask for cash over the counter. If you deposit it instead, the funds typically clear within one business day. Mobile check deposit takes one to two business days.

Can I deposit a cashier's check remotely using my phone?

Yes, if your bank offers mobile check deposit and the check was issued by your bank or a bank in their network. Take photos of the front and back, upload them through your bank's app, and the funds will appear in your account within one to two business days.

What happens if a bank refuses to cash my cashier's check?

Try the issuing bank first—they will always cash it. If that is not possible, go to your own bank. If neither works, try a credit union, check-cashing service, or grocery store. Fees will be higher, but these services are available as backup options.

Is there a limit to how much cash a bank will give me for a cashier's check?

Banks can cash checks of any amount, but checks over $10,000 trigger a Currency Transaction Report filed with the federal government. This is routine and does not prevent you from cashing the check. If you need cash for a very large check, call the bank ahead of time to make sure they have enough cash on hand.