These days, checks are used for very particular purposes. If you haven’t received money by check in a while, you may be wondering where you can take it to turn it into cash.
Those with a bank account have the option of depositing their check directly. If you don’t have a bank account—or need to receive your funds immediately—you will need another option for retrieving your funds.
How to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account
Here are 5 easy ways to cash a check without a bank account.
Cash the Check at the Issuing Bank
Each check is associated with a certain bank account. Though the issuing bank is not required to cash your check, many will cash checks written by their members. The bank may charge a fee for this service. In addition to this fee, you will usually need to wait 2 to 6 business days before receiving your cash. This holding period is designed to prevent fraudulent activity.
Cash Your Check at a Retailer
Certain retailers, like convenience and grocery stores, provide check-cashing services for a fee. Keep in mind that these retailers typically have a cap on how much individuals can cash out for paychecks, government checks, and cashier’s checks.
Cash the Check to a Prepaid Debit Card
If you don’t have a bank account, you can deposit your check onto a prepaid debit card. Once you activate the prepaid card, you can usually deposit the check online through the provider’s mobile app or website.
Cash it at a Currency Exchange
Many check cashing stores, including currency exchanges, provide check cashing for your convenience. One of the advantages of taking your check to a currency exchange is the speed at which you receive your funds—immediately!
Transfer the Check to Someone Else
If you have a friend or family member who has a bank account and ID, you can ask them to cash the check for you. To do this, you’ll need to endorse the back of the check with your signature as usual. Then, beneath your signature, write “Pay to the order of” followed by the new recipient’s name.
Do I Need an ID to Cash a Check?
You may be able to cash a check without an ID if you already have a bank account. However, if you don’t have a bank account or identification, your options are limited. Most financial institutions and currency exchanges require that you show ID when cashing a check.
Acceptable identification usually include driver’s licenses, state-issued IDs, military identification cards, and passports.
Where to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account
At West Suburban Currency Exchanges, we are committed to cashing every single good check that comes through our doors. We can even cash business checks that are payable to your company. All West Suburban Currency Exchanges locations cash good checks immediately, making it easy for you to pay bills and buy what you need.
We’re the best choice for check cashing. Visit one of our currency exchange locations today!
