You can cash checks at various places including:
- Retail stores like Walmart : Walmart cashes many types of preprinted checks such as payroll, government, tax refund, cashier's, insurance settlement, and retirement checks. They charge a maximum fee of $4 and require a valid ID
. Walmart also cashes personal checks up to $200 with a fee
- Grocery stores with Money Services desks like Kroger : Kroger offers check cashing for checks up to $5,000, including payroll and government checks. They have many locations and convenient hours, often open 7 days a week
- Banks like Regions Bank : You can cash checks without an account at some banks. Regions Bank offers check cashing for various check types with fees ranging from 1% to 4% of the check amount, depending on the check type
. However, banks generally require you to be an account holder or have the check drawn on their bank to cash it, and they may charge fees
- Standalone check-cashing services : Stores like CheckSmart, Advance America, and Moneytree specialize in check cashing but usually charge a fee or a percentage of the check amount
- Other options : You can also sign a check over to someone else (endorse it) to cash it for you, or use mobile deposit options via apps like Cash App or Venmo if you have an account there
In summary, the most common and convenient places to cash checks without a bank account are Walmart, grocery stores with Money Services, and specialized check-cashing stores. Banks may cash checks for non-account holders but often have restrictions and fees. Always bring valid ID and check for fees and limits before going