You don’t need a traditional bank account to cash a check. From grocery stores and big-box retailers to mobile apps and prepaid cards, there are safe and reliable ways to access your money fast. This 2025 guide explains every option available, what ID you’ll need, and how to avoid high fees. Whether you’re waiting for a paycheck, a tax refund, or a government check, these methods let you turn it into cash — no bank required.
1. Cash a Check at a Grocery Store
Most major grocery chains offer in-store check-cashing services, even if you don’t have a bank account. These stores verify your ID and issue cash immediately, often at lower fees than payday lenders.
- Kroger – Accepts payroll and government checks up to $5,000. Low fees and evening hours make it one of the best options.
- Meijer – Cashes payroll, government, and cashier’s checks seven days a week at the customer service desk.
- Tops – Offers Sunday check-cashing hours for maximum convenience.
Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID. Most stores do not accept third-party or handwritten checks.
2. Cash a Check at a Retailer or Pharmacy
If your local grocery store doesn’t offer check-cashing services, several retail chains can help. Some sell money orders or let you load funds onto prepaid cards instead of giving cash.
- CVS – Doesn’t cash checks but sells MoneyGram money orders you can use for bill payments or deposits.
- Dollar General – Sells Western Union money orders; no direct check cashing available.
- Walmart – Cashes payroll, government, and insurance checks up to $5,000. Offers low fees and extended hours, including Sundays.
Retailers may limit check types, so verify policies before visiting. Always bring valid ID and endorse the check in front of the cashier.
3. Use a Mobile Check-Cashing App
Several mobile payment apps allow you to deposit checks using your phone, even without a traditional bank account. Funds are added to your app balance or linked card.
- Venmo – Deposit checks directly into your Venmo balance. Use the Venmo Debit Card to withdraw cash from ATMs.
- Cash App – Supports mobile check deposits for verified users with direct deposit enabled.
- Apple Cash – Allows you to transfer funds to a debit card or bank and withdraw from an ATM.
Mobile deposits may take one to three days to clear unless you choose instant deposit, which usually has a small fee. Ensure the check is endorsed correctly and photographed clearly on both sides.
4. Cash a Check at a Check-Cashing Store
Dedicated check-cashing stores or payday loan centers will cash almost any check type, including personal or third-party checks. These locations charge higher fees but provide immediate access to cash. Typical fees range from 2%–5% of the check amount. Ask for the exact fee upfront, and bring your ID and Social Security number if required.
5. Cash a Check Using a Prepaid Card
If you own a prepaid debit card, you can often deposit checks using the card issuer’s mobile app or at participating retail stores. Funds load directly to your card, which you can use for purchases or ATM withdrawals. Popular prepaid cards with check-deposit features include Green Dot, Netspend, and Bluebird by American Express. Fees and processing times vary by provider.
6. Cash a Check at the Issuing Bank
If the check is drawn on a major bank like Chase, Wells Fargo, or PNC, you can usually cash it at one of their branches — even if you don’t have an account. The bank will verify the check and charge a small fee, often around $8. You’ll need government-issued photo ID, and the name on your ID must match the payee on the check.
7. Cash a Check on a Sunday
When banks are closed, grocery stores are your best weekend option. Chains like Kroger, Meijer, and Tops handle check-cashing services every day of the week. For a full list of Sunday options in Ohio, visit our
Sunday check-cashing guide.
What You’ll Need to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- The physical check, endorsed with your signature
- Cash for potential fees (usually $3–$8)
Always sign your check in front of the cashier, not before arriving. This prevents issues if a store declines the check.
Tips to Avoid Fees or Delays
- Compare store fees before cashing — grocery stores are usually cheaper than payday lenders.
- Visit early in the day to avoid check-verification delays.
- Ask about loading funds onto a prepaid card instead of taking cash.
- Use instant-transfer apps only from trusted providers.
Final Thoughts
You can safely cash a check without a bank account by visiting grocery stores, major retailers, or using mobile apps like Venmo or Cash App. Always bring your ID, verify the store’s policy, and compare fees to keep more of your money. For more local and weekend options, check out our
Complete Check-Cashing Guide for 2025.