How To Cash a Check Hassle-Free: A Complete Guide

Cashing a check should be simple, but if you’re new to the process or don’t have a bank account, you may wonder about the best way to do so. Whether you’re looking to cash a check at a bank, an ATM or a retail store, there are multiple options available.

This guide will walk you through how to cash a check hassle-free, including the steps, requirements and best practices.

How To Cash a Check: Step-by-Step Guide

Regardless of the method, here’s how to cash a check with minimal hassle:

Step 1: Prepare the Check

Make sure the check is filled out correctly and signed by the issuer. The name on the check should match your legal name.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Bring a valid ID, such as a driver’s license, passport or state ID. Some methods may require additional verification, like a debit card.

Step 3: Choose Your Cashing Method

Options include banks, retailers, ATMs, mobile apps and check-cashing stores.

Check Cashing Methods at a Glance

5 Ways To Cash a Check

Before choosing a method, consider convenience, fees and whether you have a bank account. Here are the most common ways to cash a check:

1. Banks or Credit Unions

• Best for: People with an active checking or savings account
• Pros: Lower fees, direct access to funds, security
• Cons: May need an account at the bank where you cash the check

Steps:

1. Visit your bank or credit union.
2. Endorse the check by signing the back in ink.
3. Provide a valid photo ID.
4. Choose whether to receive cash or deposit the check.

Pro Tip

If the check is drawn on a bank where you don’t have an account, you may still be able to cash it there, but they may charge a fee.

2. Cash a Check at an ATM

• Best for: Those with bank accounts who want a fast option
• Pros: No need to visit a teller, available 24/7
• Cons: Not all ATMs allow check cashing, funds may not be immediately available

Steps:

1. Insert your debit card and enter your PIN.
2. Select “Deposit” and insert the check.
3. Follow the prompts to deposit the check into your account.
4. If eligible, withdraw cash immediately.

Good To Know

Not all ATMs cash checks directly. Some require the check to be deposited first before withdrawing funds later.

3. Cashing a Check at Retail Stores

• Best for: People without a bank account looking for convenience
• Pros: Accessible locations, no need for a bank account
• Cons: Fees apply, some stores have cashing limits

Steps:

1. Visit a participating retailer — Walmart, Kroger, etc.
2. Provide your check and a valid ID.
3. Pay the required fee.
4. Receive cash instantly.

Quick Reminder

Retailers typically don’t cash personal checks, but they will accept payroll, government and cashier’s checks.

4. Check-Cashing Services

• Best for: Those who need immediate cash and don’t mind paying a higher fee
• Pros: No need for a bank account
• Cons: High fees, potential scam risks

Steps:

1. Visit a check-cashing store like Check Into Cash, ACE Cash Express, etc.
2. Provide a valid ID.
3. Pay the fee, which is usually a percentage of the check amount.
4. Receive cash instantly.

Helpful Hint

If possible, try to avoid check-cashing services due to high fees.

5. Mobile Deposit and Online Banking

• Best for: People with bank accounts who want to cash checks digitally
• Pros: Convenient, no need to visit a branch
• Cons: Funds may take time to clear

Steps:

1. Open your bank’s mobile app.
2. Select “Deposit Check.”
3. Take a photo of the front and back of the check.
4. Submit the check for deposit.
5. Wait for funds to become available.

Smart Move

Write “For Mobile Deposit Only” under your endorsement for added security.

Check-Cashing Tips You Should Know

To avoid hassles and losing money to unwanted fees, make sure everything is in order with your check and choice of check-cashing entity before beginning the process.

Here are four tips to ensure a hassle-free check-cashing experience.

• Verify the check’s validity:
  • Before cashing or depositing a check, you’ll want to ensure it’s valid.
  • If your check bounces, you could be held accountable for the check’s amount and fees/penalties.
• Double-check the details:
  • Make sure that the name on the check matches yours, and the name on the identification you’ll use to cash it.
• Be aware of fees:
  • Depending on the place and the check’s amount, fees could eat away a substantial portion of your proceeds.
  • Shop around for the check-cashing bank, business or app that best fits your needs.
• Check for fund holds:
  • Larger checks might be subject to a hold period before your funds are available, so review the policies.
  • If you’re in dire need of cash, it might be acceptable to pay a higher fee for added speed and convenience.

Final Take

With so many options available to you, knowing how to cash a check is not always a simple, or inexpensive, endeavor. The important thing is to identify your needs. Do you need cash fast? Or can you wait? Is convenience more important than avoiding a fee? With a little preparation and attention, hassle-free check-cashing is possible.

Whether you opt for a bank, an ATM or a check-cashing service, make sure to select the option that best fits your needs.

Chris Ozarowski, Genevieve Nino and Allison Hache contributed to the reporting for this article.