If you’re wondering whether Target cashes checks, the short answer is
no. Target does not cash personal, payroll, or government checks at any of its stores in 2025. That said, Target still offers ATMs and debit-card reloads for customers who use prepaid or bank cards. Here’s what you can (and can’t) do at Target, plus the best alternatives nearby.
Does Target Cash Checks?
No — Target does not provide check-cashing services. You can pay with a personal check for purchases at most locations, but the store does not give you cash back or exchange a paper check for cash. Unlike Walmart, which runs full MoneyCenters, Target limits its financial offerings to ATMs and RedCard credit/debit products.
What Financial Services Does Target Offer?
- ATMs: Many locations host Allpoint, Chase, or other bank ATMs
- Target RedCard: Store credit and debit options for purchases only
- Gift cards & reloadable prepaid cards: Sold at checkout
- Cash back on debit purchases: Available up to $40 with most cards
Target’s systems can verify checks used for purchases, but they don’t handle cashing or direct deposit transactions.
Can You Cash a Payroll or Government Check at Target?
No. Even payroll or government checks cannot be cashed at Target. If you try to use a check for payment, it must clear electronically through Target’s verification network, and you’ll receive no cash back.
Alternatives to Cashing Checks at Target
- Walmart: Cashes most checks at low fees — see our Walmart MoneyCard Guide.
- Kroger: Offers payroll and government check cashing — read our Kroger Guide.
- Meijer: In-store check cashing with valid ID.
- Mobile Apps: Deposit checks instantly with PayPal, Venmo, or Chime.
Can You Deposit a Check Using a Prepaid Card Bought at Target?
Yes — if you purchase a prepaid card like
Green Dot,
Netspend, or
Serve at Target, you can use its companion app to deposit checks from your phone.
- Green Dot: Mobile check deposits with instant or free options.
- Netspend: Check cashing via Ingo Money.
- Serve: Mobile deposits once your card is verified.
Why Target Doesn’t Cash Checks
Target focuses on retail and credit services rather than in-store banking. Check-cashing requires cash reserves, verification systems, and anti-fraud measures that would slow store operations.
Where to Cash a Check Near Target
- Walmart or Kroger: Often located within 2–3 miles of major Target stores
- ACE Cash Express / CheckSmart: Accepts nearly all check types
- Local banks & credit unions: May cash non-member checks for a small fee
Final Thoughts
Target does not cash checks, but it’s still a convenient place to use prepaid cards, ATMs, or get cash back on debit purchases. If you need to cash a check quickly, visit nearby
Kroger or Walmart, or use mobile apps like
PayPal and
Venmo. For digital alternatives, check out our
Green Dot and
Netspend guides — both let you deposit checks through your phone anytime.