Your main options for cashing a check without a bank account
You can cash a check at the bank or credit union that issued it, at a check-cashing store, at some retail locations, or through a mobile app that deposits checks remotely. The bank that issued the check (the one printed on it) will cash it for free if you have the check and a valid ID, even if you don't have an account there. Check-cashing stores and retailers charge a fee—usually 1 to 3 percent of the check amount—but are faster and more widely available than banks.
The fastest route depends on what you have: a valid ID, the physical check, and how much time you can spend. If you have a smartphone, remote deposit through a prepaid card or money transfer app may be free and takes seconds. If you need cash immediately and don't have a bank account or app, a check-cashing store is your most direct option, though it will cost you.
Key Takeaways
- The bank that issued the check will cash it for free with a valid ID, even if you have no account there.
- Check-cashing stores charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount but operate longer hours and don't require an account.
- Walmart, Target, and some grocery stores cash checks for a flat fee, usually $3 to $6, which is sometimes cheaper than a percentage-based fee.
- Mobile apps and prepaid cards can deposit checks remotely for free if you have a smartphone and valid ID.
- Bring your valid ID and the original check; some places also require a second form of ID or proof of address.
Cashing a check at the issuing bank for free
The bank whose name appears on the check must cash it for you at no charge. This is the cheapest option. Walk into any branch of that bank with your valid ID and the check, and ask to cash it. You do not need an account with that bank. The teller will verify the check and give you cash.
The catch is location and hours. If the bank that issued the check has no branch near you, or if you need cash outside business hours, this option may not work. Some banks also require a second form of ID or proof of address if you're not a customer. Call the bank's customer service number (printed on the check) before you go, and ask what ID they need.
Check-cashing stores and their fees
A check-cashing store will cash your check for a fee, usually 1 to 3 percent of the check amount. On a $500 check, that's $5 to $15. These stores are open longer than banks—often until 8 or 9 p.m. and on weekends—and you don't need an account. Bring your valid ID and the check.
The fee varies by store and by check type. Personal checks cost more to cash than payroll checks. Some stores charge a flat fee instead of a percentage, which may be cheaper if your check is large. Call ahead or check the store's website to confirm the fee before you go. Common chains include Check Into Cash, ACE Cash Express, and Advance America, but independent check-cashing shops exist in most neighborhoods.
Retail stores that cash checks
Walmart, Target, and many grocery stores cash checks for a flat fee, usually $3 to $6 per check. This is often cheaper than a percentage-based fee, especially on larger checks. You need a valid ID and the original check. Some stores also require a second form of ID or a store membership card.
Not all locations offer check cashing, and policies vary by store. Call your nearest Walmart or Target before you go. Grocery chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Albertsons often cash checks for customers, but again, call first. Hours are usually longer than banks, and you can cash a check while shopping.
Mobile check deposit through apps and prepaid cards
If you have a smartphone, you can deposit a check remotely using a mobile app and receive the funds in a digital wallet or prepaid card account. Apps like PayPal, Square Cash, and Chime allow you to photograph the front and back of the check and deposit it without visiting a store. The funds typically appear within one to three business days, and there's no fee.
You do need a valid ID to set up the account, and some apps require you to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading a photo of your ID. Once your account is open, you can deposit checks anytime, anywhere. You can then withdraw the money as cash at an ATM or transfer it to someone else's account. This is the cheapest and most convenient option if you have a smartphone and can wait a few days for the funds.
What ID and documents you'll need
Every place that cashes checks requires a valid government-issued photo ID: a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Some places ask for a second form of ID, such as a utility bill, lease, or credit card, to verify your address. Bring the original check—a photo or copy won't work.
For mobile check deposit, you'll need a valid ID to open the account, but you don't need to show it in person. The app will ask you to photograph your ID or verify it through a video call. After that, you can deposit checks from home.
Fees and costs compared
| Method | Fee | Time to cash | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Free | Same day (minutes) | Business hours only |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of check amount | Same day (minutes) | Extended hours, weekends |
| Retail store (Walmart, Target) | $3–$6 flat fee | Same day (minutes) | Extended hours, weekends |
| Mobile app deposit | Free | 1–3 business days | Anytime |
What to do if the check is damaged or unclear
If the check is torn, stained, or has faded ink, some places will refuse to cash it. Ask the person who gave you the check for a replacement. If that's not possible, contact the bank that issued the check and ask if they can verify it before you try to cash it elsewhere.
If the check is post-dated (dated in the future), most places won't cash it until that date arrives. If it's stale-dated (more than six months old), banks are not required to cash it, though some will. Check-cashing stores may refuse stale checks. If you have an old check, contact the issuer and ask for a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash someone else's check?
No. The check must be made out to you or have your name on it. If someone wants to give you money via check, they need to write it in your name. A check made out to someone else and signed over to you (a third-party check) is rarely accepted anymore.
What if I don't have a valid ID?
You cannot cash a check without a valid government-issued photo ID. If you don't have one, you'll need to get a state ID card or passport first. Contact your state's DMV or your local passport office to learn how to apply.
Do I need the physical check, or can I use a photo?
For in-person cashing at a bank, store, or check-cashing place, you need the original check. For mobile deposit through an app, you photograph the front and back, but you still own the physical check and should keep it until the deposit clears.
How long does it take to get the money from a mobile deposit?
Most apps credit the funds within one to three business days. Some apps offer faster deposit for a fee, or instant deposit if you have a premium account. Check your app's terms to see how long it takes.
What happens if the check bounces after I cash it?
If the check bounces (the account has insufficient funds), the place that cashed it may ask you to return the money or deduct it from your account. If you cashed it at a check-cashing store or retail location, they may pursue you for the amount plus their fee. Keep the receipt and contact the issuer to resolve the problem.