How to cash a check without a bank account

Whether it’s a paycheck, a personal check, a government check, or a settlement check, it’s possible to cash a check without having a bank account. This article explores six ways to cash a check without a bank account.

Ways to cash a check without a bank account

While having a bank account is generally an easy way to cash a check, not everyone has one. A Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) survey estimated that as of 2021, 5.9 million U.S. households had no bank account.¹

There are different ways to cash a check without a bank account. This article explores the following methods:

• Cash a check at the issuing bank
• Cash a check at a retailer
• Cash a check using an online provider
• Deposit a check onto a prepaid debit card
• Cash a check at a check-cashing store
• Endorse a check to a third party

Cash a check at the issuing bank

Some banks and credit unions allow non-customers to cash checks issued by them. They may charge either a flat fee or a percentage of the check amount. Fees and other costs may apply and may vary depending on the issuing bank.

The process may look something like this:

1. Locate and go to a branch of the bank that issued the check.
2. Endorse the back of the check by signing it.
3. Present identification and the check to the bank teller. Confirm the check details.
4. Once the check is verified, the teller can process the transaction and provide the cash equivalent of the check.
5. Keep the receipt as proof of the transaction.

Cash a check at a retailer

Some retail chains, large grocery stores, and convenience stores offer check-cashing services for a fee.

The process is similar to cashing a check at the issuing bank. Before receiving the funds, individuals may be charged a fee by the retailer for processing and cashing the check.

These types of retailers may also limit how much someone can cash for non-personal checks, such as government, cashier's, or payroll checks.

Cash a check using an online provider

Looking to cash a check online without a bank account? Some online financial services provide the ability to cash a check virtually, year-round.

This is typically how it works:

• Set up an account with the provider. The provider will likely request various personal information (name, email, address, etc.), but the steps will vary depending on the provider.
• Once the account is set up, take a photo of the front and back of the check using the provider's mobile app.
• Once the app verifies the check's authenticity, it will deposit the funds directly into the account with the provider. The funds can then be transferred to another account if desired. Note that it can take several days or longer for a check to clear, depending on the online account provider and the check’s issuing bank.
• Some providers may charge fees or other costs for account setup or cashing of checks. Review all terms to stay on top of any potential costs.

For example, you can cash a check online via the PayPal app. All you need is your check, a mobile device, and a PayPal Balance account, which is where your funds will be deposited.

Deposit a check onto a prepaid debit card

Another way is to deposit a check onto a prepaid debit card, which functions similarly to a bank account debit card but doesn’t require a bank account to be opened.

Once a prepaid debit card is activated, a check can be deposited using the card provider’s mobile app or website. The card can then be used to make purchases or withdraw cash.

Cash a check at a check-cashing store

As its name implies, check-cashing stores specialize in cashing checks. It’s important to note that they often charge high fees.

These fees can either be a percentage of the check amount or a flat amount. Fees may vary depending on the check-cashing store or the amount of the check.

Endorse a check to a third party

Signing a check over to a trusted third party, such as a friend or family member, allows them to deposit the funds into their own bank account. This process is also known as endorsing a check to a third party.

The recipient can then withdraw the amount in cash, transfer the funds via an online provider, or reload a prepaid debit card.

When endorsing a check to a third party, you will be relinquishing control of the funds, so it’s important to sign a check over to someone trusted and that you’re sure will transfer the funds back to you.

How to cash a large check without a bank account

Cashing a large check can be more challenging without a bank account as some retailers have limits on the maximum amount someone can cash.

These are some options for people who may need to cash a large check:

• Issuing banks. Keep in mind that not all banks and credit unions offer this service, so it's always best to check ahead and ask if they allow non-customers to cash checks. There may also be fees charged for non-customers attempting to cash a check.
• Check-cashing stores. Note that these stores often charge high fees, which may eat into the check’s value.
• Third-party checks. Signing a check to a third party is another option available, though those doing so should ensure they endorse the check to a trusted third party. The third party should have a bank that allows for the amount of the check to be cashed.

How to cash a government check without a bank account

Cashing a government check without a bank account is possible with some of the solutions outlined above, including retailers, check-cashing stores, and online providers — as long as the check doesn’t exceed the accepted amount limit.

How to cash a settlement check without a bank account

Settlement checks are often able to be cashed with the methods listed above. The availability to do so will depend on each specific method and/or store. If someone needs to do this, it’s a good idea they review all the options and understand what fees may be involved.

Potential costs when cashing a check without a bank account

Depending on where someone decides to cash a check, there may be potential fees and additional costs involved. Some methods may include:

• Check cashing fees
• Fees to expedite the funds immediately
• Prepaid card fees

Be sure to review any terms and fees associated when determining which method to use.