Tops Markets does not cash tax refund checks
Tops Markets, a supermarket chain in the Northeast, does not offer check-cashing services for tax refunds or any other checks. Tops stopped cashing checks at most of its locations years ago and has not resumed the service. If you have a tax refund check and shop at Tops, you will need to use a different place to cash it.
This matters because tax refund checks are often large enough that people without bank accounts need a reliable place to turn them into cash. Tops used to be an option for some shoppers in New York, Pennsylvania, and other states where the chain operates, but that option is no longer available.
Key Takeaways
- Tops Markets does not cash tax refund checks or personal checks at any of its locations.
- Your best options for cashing a tax refund check without a bank account are check-cashing stores, your bank or credit union, Walmart, or the IRS direct deposit program.
- Check-cashing stores typically charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount, so a $1,000 refund might cost $10 to $30 to cash.
- If you do not have a bank account, opening one before your refund arrives can save you money on cashing fees.
Where to cash a tax refund check instead
Check-cashing stores are the most common alternative. These businesses specialize in turning checks into cash and accept tax refund checks. You will need a photo ID and the check itself. Fees vary by location and check amount, but typically run 1 to 3 percent of the check value. A $1,200 refund might cost $12 to $36 to cash.
Walmart cashes checks at its customer service desk, including tax refund checks, in most locations. The fee is usually a flat $3 to $6 depending on the check amount. Walmart's rates are often lower than dedicated check-cashing stores, so it is worth checking if one is near you.
Your bank or credit union will cash your tax refund check even if you do not have an account there, though some charge a small fee ($5 to $10) for non-customers. If you have an account, cashing is free. Many banks and credit unions also offer second-chance checking accounts designed for people with banking history problems, which might be worth exploring.
Grocery stores and pharmacies occasionally cash checks, but policies vary widely by location and chain. Call ahead before you go. Most have stopped offering this service or limit it to customers who use their store loyalty card.
Why direct deposit saves you money on future refunds
If you do not have a bank account now, opening one before next tax season can eliminate check-cashing fees entirely. When you file your taxes, you can request that the IRS deposit your refund directly into a checking or savings account instead of mailing a check. Direct deposit is free and the money usually arrives in 3 to 5 business days after the IRS processes your return.
Many banks and credit unions offer no-fee checking accounts, and some specifically serve people who have had trouble with banking in the past. Credit unions in particular often have lower fees and more flexible requirements than large banks. You can find a credit union near you through the CO-OP network or Allpoint ATM network websites.
Even if you open an account just to receive your tax refund, you can keep it open for future refunds and other payments. The account costs nothing if you maintain a small balance or set up direct deposit from an employer.
What to bring when you cash a tax refund check
Regardless of where you go, you will need a valid photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The check-cashing business or store will also need the check itself, of course. Some places ask for a second form of ID or a fingerprint for large checks, typically those over $1,000.
If the check is made out to you and your spouse or ex-spouse, both people named on the check must be present to cash it. If the check is made out to you and a business or creditor, you may not be able to cash it without that other party's signature and presence.
If your tax refund check is lost or damaged
If your check arrives but is torn, water-damaged, or otherwise unreadable, most check-cashing places will refuse it. Do not try to tape it or write on it — that makes it harder to cash. Instead, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or through the IRS website to report the damaged check and request a replacement.
The IRS will issue a new check, which usually arrives within 2 to 4 weeks. You can also check the status of your refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website, which will tell you if a replacement has been issued.
Comparing your cashing options by cost and speed
| Option | Typical Fee | Speed | What You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of check amount | Same day | Photo ID, the check |
| Walmart | $3–$6 flat fee | Same day | Photo ID, the check |
| Bank or credit union (non-customer) | $5–$10 | Same day or next business day | Photo ID, the check |
| Bank or credit union (customer) | Free | Same day or next business day | Photo ID, the check, account |
| Direct deposit (future refunds) | Free | 3–5 business days | Bank account, routing number |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a tax refund check at any Tops location?
No. Tops Markets does not cash checks at any of its stores. You will need to use a check-cashing store, Walmart, a bank, or a credit union instead.
What happens if I lose my tax refund check?
Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or through the IRS website to report it lost. The IRS will stop payment on the original check and issue a replacement, which typically arrives in 2 to 4 weeks. You can track the status using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool.
Is there a fee to cash a tax refund check at a bank I don't have an account with?
Most banks charge non-customers $5 to $10 to cash a check. Credit unions sometimes charge less or nothing. Call ahead to ask about the fee before you go.
Can I cash a tax refund check made out to two people?
Yes, but both people named on the check must be present with photo ID. If one person is unavailable, the person whose name appears first on the check can sometimes cash it alone, but policies vary — ask the check-cashing business first.
How long does it take to get a tax refund by direct deposit?
Direct deposit typically takes 3 to 5 business days after the IRS processes your return. This is faster than waiting for a check to arrive by mail, and you avoid cashing fees entirely.