Cash it at your bank or credit union, or at a check-cashing service if you don't have an account

A tax refund check works like any other check. You can deposit it into a bank or credit union account, cash it at the institution where you hold an account, or take it to a check-cashing service. The fastest route is usually your own bank or credit union—most process deposits the same business day or next business day. Check-cashing services will give you cash on the spot, but they charge a fee (typically 1 to 3 percent of the check amount) and may hold the check for a day or two before releasing funds.

You'll need the check itself, a valid photo ID, and (for deposits) your account number. Some banks let you deposit checks through their mobile app by taking photos of the front and back. If you're cashing rather than depositing, bring the check and ID to a teller or check-cashing counter during business hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Depositing into your own bank or credit union account is free and usually clears within one business day.
  • Check-cashing services charge a percentage fee but give you cash immediately without requiring an account.
  • You need a valid photo ID and the check itself; for deposits, you'll also need your account number.
  • Mobile deposit through your bank's app works for most refund checks and avoids a trip to the branch.
  • The check is valid for 180 days from the date printed on it; after that, the IRS may not honor it.

Depositing through mobile app or ATM

Most banks and credit unions now let you deposit checks without visiting a branch. Open your bank's mobile app, look for "Mobile Deposit" or "Deposit Check," and follow the prompts to photograph the front and back of the check. The app will read the check number and amount automatically. Submit the deposit and the funds usually appear in your account within one business day, though some banks post them the same day.

If your bank has an ATM that accepts check deposits, you can also insert the check directly. The machine will scan it and credit your account. This method works 24/7 and is just as fast as mobile deposit. Check your bank's website or app to see which ATMs near you have this feature.

Cashing at a check-cashing service

Check-cashing businesses (sometimes called "check cashers" or "payday loan stores") will convert your check to cash on the spot. They charge a fee—usually between 1 and 3 percent of the check amount—so a $2,000 refund might cost you $20 to $60 to cash. You'll need a valid photo ID and the check. Some services also ask for a second form of ID or a thumbprint.

The main advantage is speed: you walk out with cash. The main disadvantage is the fee and the fact that you lose the paper trail of a bank deposit. If you have a bank account, depositing is almost always cheaper. If you don't have an account and need cash immediately, check-cashing is a straightforward option, but compare fees between services in your area—they vary widely.

What to do if the check is damaged or lost

If your refund check arrives torn, stained, or otherwise damaged, most banks will still cash or deposit it as long as the check number and amount are legible and the signature line is intact. Bring it to your bank and ask a teller. If the damage is severe, the bank may refuse it, in which case you'll need to contact the IRS.

If you lose the check before cashing it, contact the IRS right away. Call 1-800-829-1040 (the main IRS line) or use the IRS website to report it. The IRS can issue a replacement check, which typically takes two to four weeks. In the meantime, the original check remains valid for 180 days from the date printed on it, so if someone finds it, they cannot cash it after that date.

Endorsing the back of the check

Before you deposit or cash the check, you must sign the back. This is called endorsing the check. Write your signature on the line marked "Endorse here" on the back of the check. Some banks ask you to write your account number below your signature, and some ask you to write "For deposit only" followed by your account number if you're depositing rather than cashing. Follow the teller's or app's instructions.

If someone else needs to cash the check on your behalf (a spouse, family member, or representative), you'll need to endorse it to them by writing "Pay to the order of [their name]" on the back, then signing below that. They will then sign below your endorsement. Not all banks accept third-party checks, so call ahead if this applies to you.

Timing and when funds appear in your account

If you deposit the check at your bank or credit union, funds typically appear within one business day. Some banks post same-day for deposits made before a certain time (often 2 p.m.). If you deposit on a Friday evening or weekend, expect the funds Monday or Tuesday. Holidays delay processing by one day.

Check-cashing services give you cash immediately, but some hold the check for one or two business days before releasing the full amount. Ask the service about their hold policy before you hand over the check. Mobile deposits and ATM deposits follow the same timeline as in-person deposits at a branch.

If the check amount seems wrong

Before you cash or deposit the check, verify the amount matches what you expected. Your tax refund notice (the letter the IRS sent with the check) shows the refund amount. If the check is for less, the IRS may have offset it to pay back taxes, student loans, or other federal debts. If the check is for more than expected, contact the IRS before cashing it—you'll owe the money back.

If you believe the amount is wrong due to an error on your tax return, you can still cash the check, but you'll need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X) to correct the mistake. The IRS will then send you a second check or bill you for the difference. Do not delay cashing the check while you investigate—the 180-day validity window is firm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a tax refund check into someone else's account?

No. The check is made out to you, and you must endorse it. You can cash it and give the person the cash, or you can endorse it to them (write "Pay to the order of [their name]" on the back and sign), but not all banks accept third-party checks. Call your bank first to confirm they will accept it.

What if I don't have a bank account?

Use a check-cashing service. You'll pay a fee (1 to 3 percent), but you'll walk out with cash. Some community banks and credit unions offer low-cost or free checking accounts if you want to avoid the fee in the future. The IRS also offers direct deposit, which is free and faster than a mailed check.

How long is a tax refund check valid?

A tax refund check is valid for 180 days from the date printed on it. After that, the IRS will not honor it. If you lose track of the check and the 180 days pass, contact the IRS to request a replacement.

Do I have to pay taxes on the refund when I cash it?

No. A tax refund is your own money being returned to you. It is not income and is not taxable. You do not owe any tax on it.

Can I deposit the check at an ATM if I'm not a customer of that bank?

No. ATM check deposits are only available to customers of that bank or credit union. If you don't have an account, use a check-cashing service or open a free account at a bank near you.