Can You Cash a Check at Any Bank

You don't need to have an account with the bank to cash a check. Find out where you can go to deposit different types of checks.

It's pretty simple to cash a check without a bank account. That said, it's not convenient and you'll likely pay some fees. Keep reading to learn what you need to do to cash your check.

Can You Cash a Check at any Bank Without an Account?

Many banks will cash a check for you even if you're not their customer. But you should first visit the bank that issued the actual check. Some banks will cash their own checks for a fee - either a percentage of the check or a flat dollar amount.

Some banks may charge a higher fee if your check is above $5,000. They may also put a cap on how much you're allowed to cash.

In any case, you will need to provide proper identification to cash the check.

Can You Cash a Check at a Different Bank?

You can cash a check at another bank but you will incur fees. It's generally cheaper and more convenient to deposit the check at a bank that you have an account with.

How Can I Cash a Check Immediately?

The quickest way to get your money is to go to the bank that issued the check. This is the bank or the credit union that's holding the check writer's funds.

If you have an account with a bank, you can also cash in your check on their app. Here's an example of how this feature works on the Chase mobile app.

When Can a Bank Refuse to Cash a Check?

There are a few reasons why a bank may deny depositing your check.

• You don't have proper ID - Banks require a proper proof of identity to protect themselves against check fraud. Always bring a government-issued ID, like a driver's license or passport, if you want to cash a check.

• The check is made to a business name - Owners of corporations, nonprofit organizations, LLCs, and partnerships should register their business. And don't forget to open business accounts under the business name.

• Too large of a transaction without prior notice - If you have a charge for a very large amount of money (such as $50,000), be sure to call the bank manager ahead of time. You may need to go to the main branch of your bank to process the transaction.

If you're turned down at a bank, take a look at this list of places that'll allow you to deposit a check.

Depositing Other Types of Checks

You can cash your check at several retailers, including mom-and-pop shops. Kmart is known for offering free check-cashing in some states. You can also go to places like Walmart and 7-Eleven.

These stores may charge a flat fee from $0.50 to $6 or a percentage of the check, depending on the retailer.

You can cash the cashier's checks, personal checks, stimulus checks, and federal checks with the following options:

• Your bank - Usually free to cash
  
• Issuing bank - May be free to cash
  
• Other banks - May incur a fee
  
• Small stores and large retailers - Usually incur a fee
  
• Third-party apps - Usually incur a fee

Bottom line

Even if you do not have any account with the bank, most banks will let you deposit a check. This is not a set rule, but most banks will let you cash a check.

If you do not have an account with the bank, you may be charged a fee. Be sure to take a look at the fee before depositing. Your options do not end there, as you can also deposit as many retailers.

However, depositing at the bank that you have an account with is the easiest and cheapest option.