Welcome to Check Cashing 247! Here, you’ll find commonly asked questions along with helpful answers about check cashing. From personal checks to government checks we’ve got you covered.

How Does the Check Cashing Process Work?

Although check-cashing is an extremely popular means of obtaining cash, not everyone is aware of how the whole process actually works. However, in most cases, the process is relatively simple – in fact, so simple that it doesn’t always have to be performed at a dedicated bank anymore. Below is a quick rundown of how the check cashing process works – regardless of whether it is done at a bank, check cashing store, or other chain store location.

Feel free to read our post about how to cash a check for more detailed information.

For information on how to cash a check without a bank account, click here.

Choosing a Check Cashing Location or Option

The first step of the check cashing process will involve deciding where you are going to convert your check into cash. This will determine whether you are going to have to make a qualifying purchase beforehand to obtain your cash or not. When cashing checks at dedicated check cashing centers or banks, you will not have to make a purchase beforehand. However, if you need to cash checks elsewhere, such as at various store locations, you may need to purchase a few items before your check will be allowed to be processed. 

Examine your Check Carefully Before Cashing

Before attempting to cash any checks, you need to ensure that all parts of it are fully legible and that it has been made out in the same name as that which displays on the form of identification you intend to use. This will help ensure that the cashing process goes as quickly and conveniently as possible. If any parts of your check are illegible or your name has not been printed or written correctly, it may have to be returned to the issuing bank, canceled, and reissued correctly. 

For more information about understanding parts of a check, click here.

Presenting Your Check to be Cashed

Once you’ve decided where to get your check cashed, you’ll need to ensure that you have it with you in order to get your cash. You will then need to present it to the cashier or clerk so that they can determine whether it is able to be cashed by them or not. If you are going to use a Vcom unit at one of the many 7 Eleven locations around the country, you will need to insert the check into the unit and enter the required information at the same time. Once the cashier or clerk is satisfied that your check is valid, they will request identification from you, and after confirming your ID, they will present you with the cash value of your check – minus any fees that may be charged for the service.

Be Aware of Check Processing Fees

When cashing your checks, you need to be aware of the fact that various processing fees will apply, and these tend to vary depending on where you are cashing your check. While some places may only charge a dollar or two to process and cash your check, other locations – and even some stores – will charge a percentage of the face value of the check as a processing fee. This can work out to be quite expensive, especially if you are cashing a salary check, tax rebate, or insurance check. On average, stores will charge anywhere between 1% and 5% of the face value of your check to process and cash it for you. 

In-Store Conditions May Apply

If you intend to cash your check at a franchise store location, it’s important to be aware that some terms and conditions may apply. For example, some locations will require that you make a purchase in-store, while others may state that they only cash checks up to a predetermined value. During some times of the year, for instance, Walmart stipulates that they only cash checks of up to $5,000, while at other times of the year, they are willing to cash checks of up to $7,500 in value. Some check cashing locations may also stipulate that they are only able to cash checks during certain times of the day as well.

Regardless of where you decide to do check to cash, you must ensure that you are aware of your surroundings at all times. This will help you remain as safe as possible. Avoid carrying large sums of cash around for prolonged periods of time as well, as this could cause you to become a potential target for theft.