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While banks are the traditional go-to for check cashing, their limited hours and account requirements can be inconvenient. Luckily, liquor stores offer an alternative solution with more flexibility and convenience.
Many liquor stores provide check cashing services. The types of checks they accept, cashing limits, and fees can vary depending on the store. In this post, I’ll outline some important factors to consider when cashing a check at a liquor store.
What liquor stores cash checks?
Here is a list of liquor stores where you can cash checks.
1. Albertsons
While Albertsons isn’t a traditional check cashing service, they offer the convenience of cashing various checks alongside your groceries. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Accepted checks: They accept payroll, personal, government, and even stimulus checks.
- Limit: Be aware that limits apply. Personal checks are capped at $250, while government, stimulus, and payroll checks have varying limits depending on the specific store. It’s always best to call ahead and confirm their policy.
- Fees: The fees for check cashing will also vary by store location.
- Additional services: While cashing your check, you can also take advantage of other services offered at Albertsons, such as purchasing Western Union money orders, using Coinstar for loose change conversion, getting copies or faxes made, or buying stamps – all in one convenient stop.
- Hours: Their check cashing service is available during regular store hours, typically from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
2. Hannaford
Hannaford offers an alternative to traditional check cashing services but with some specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Accepted checks: They accept payroll, government, stimulus, and pension checks, but only if they’re preprinted, not handwritten.
- Limit: The amount you can cash is limited. You can cash one check for up to $1,000 and two checks not exceeding $1,200.
- Fees: Expect a flat fee of $1 for check cashing, although this may vary by location.
- Requirement: Before using their check cashing service, you must apply for Hannaford’s financial services in-store. This application process can take up to five days to complete.
- Additional service: If you have a personal check and don’t want to wait for approval, Hannaford offers instant cashback, though the details of this service are not covered here.
- Hours: The good news is that their check cashing service is available during extended hours, typically opening at 7 a.m. and staying open until 10 p.m.
3. Meijer
Meijer provides check cashing services for various check types, making it a convenient option for many. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Accepted checks: They accept a wide range of checks, including personal checks, computer-generated payroll checks, government stimulus checks, traveler’s checks, and even refund checks.
- Limit: The amount you can cash depends on the check type. Payroll, government, and stimulus checks have a higher limit of $1,000, while traveler’s checks are capped at $499.99. Personal and rebate checks can only be cashed for up to $50 over your total purchase at Meijer.
- Fees: Check cashing fees vary by location. It’s always best to call your local Meijer or check their website for current rates.
- Requirements: To cash a check at Meijer, ensure all your identification documents are valid and up-to-date. They also don’t accept two-party checks.
- Additional services: While cashing your check, you can explore other services offered at Meijer, such as playing the lottery, using coin-counting machines, or purchasing money orders.
- Hours: Meijer’s big advantage is its extended hours. Most locations stay open late until 9 p.m., including on weekends, providing more flexibility for your check cashing needs.
4. Fred Meyer
Fred Meyer offers a convenient option for cashing specific checks with a high maximum limit. Here’s what you need to know:
- Accepted checks: They focus on government and payroll checks, ensuring a secure and reliable service for these common check types.
- Limit: A significant advantage of Fred Meyer is their high cashing limit of $5,000.
- Fees: There are tiered fees depending on the check amount. Checks up to $2,000 incur a $3 fee, while checks between $2,001 and $5,000 have a $5 fee.
- Requirements: To cash a check, ensure you have a valid form of ID. They accept government-issued IDs, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, military IDs, matricula consular cards, resident alien IDs, and US passports.
- Additional services: While cashing your check, you can explore the many other services offered at Fred Meyer, such as fueling up at their gas stations, picking up flowers or stamps, or purchasing money orders.
- Hours: Their check cashing service is available during extended hours. It is typically open until 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and offers shorter hours on Sundays until 6 p.m.
5. Safeway
Safeway provides check cashing services, but it’s important to know variations depending on the store location. Here’s what you can expect:
- Accepted checks: They accept a variety of checks, including payroll checks, personal checks, government checks, and even stimulus checks.
- Limit and fees: Unfortunately, the maximum amount you can cash and the associated fee will vary by store. It’s always best to call your local Safeway or check their website for current limits and fee structures.
- Requirement: The one consistent requirement across Safeway stores is that you must show a valid form of ID to cash a check.
- Additional services: While cashing your check, you can also take advantage of other financial services offered at Safeway, such as purchasing money orders, using Western Union money transfer services, converting loose change with Coinstar machines, or even using their ATM (if available).
- Hours: Since check cashing availability depends on the specific store, you should check their website or call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
6. Kroger
Kroger offers check cashing services through their Money Services centers, conveniently located within most of their 2,800 stores across 35 states. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Fees: Be prepared for fees that vary depending on the check amount and whether you have a Kroger Shopper’s Card. Fees typically start at $3 but can reach $7.50. To get an accurate estimate, use the handy fee calculator on the Kroger Money Services website. Simply enter your check amount to see the applicable fee with or without a Shopper’s Card.
- Accepted checks: They accept a wide range of checks, including payroll, government, tax refund, insurance settlement, business, and child support checks.
Remember that Kroger Money Services does not cash personal, starter, or third-party checks.
Having a Shopper’s Card can save you money on check cashing fees. For instance, cashing a check-up to $2,000 with a Shopper’s Card typically costs $4, while without the card, it’s $4.50. The savings become more significant for checks between $2,000.01 and $5,000, where the fee jumps to $7.50 without a card but remains at $7 with a card.
7. King Soopers
King Soopers, a Kroger subsidiary with locations primarily in Colorado and Wyoming, offers check cashing services through their Money Services centers. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fees: Like Kroger, King Soopers charges fees for check cashing, which start at $3. Depending on the check amount, these fees can go up to $7.50.
- Accepted checks: They cash payroll checks and business checks, providing a convenient option for these common types.
With only 118 stores compared to Kroger’s vast network, finding a King Soopers location might be less convenient, depending on where you live.
8. Walmart
Walmart is a nationwide check-cashing option that accepts various check types, including stimulus checks, government checks, tax refund checks, cashier’s checks, 401k and retirement distributions, insurance settlements, and even two-party personal checks. The maximum check amount they will accept is $5,000.
Their fees are tiered based on the check amount. For checks up to $1,000, the fee is $4. If your check is larger, between $1,001 and $5,000, the fee jumps to $8. Be aware that these are just the maximum fees, so it’s always a good idea to call your local Walmart store to confirm their pricing.
9. Smith’s Food and Drug
If you’re in the western United States, specifically Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, or Wyoming, Smith’s Food and Drug can be an option for cashing your checks. This supermarket chain, owned by Kroger, offers check cashing services at their 144 retail stores.
It’s important to note that Smith’s Food and Drug charges fees can vary depending on the check amount. Generally, these fees fall between $3 and $7.50. While they do cash child support and payroll checks, be aware that they may not accept all types of checks, so it’s wise to call your local Smith’s Food and Drug beforehand to confirm their specific check cashing policy and current fees.
10. Stop & Shop
Stop & Shop, a grocery store chain with over 400 locations in New York, New England, and New Jersey, offers check cashing services, but with some stipulations. First, you must be a member of their GO Rewards loyalty program. Additionally, you’ll need to complete a check-cashing application process at your local store.
If you meet those requirements, Stop & Shop will cash your payroll and government checks, but only up to a maximum of $500. The good news is their fee is relatively low, at just $0.50 per check. However, be sure to factor in the time and effort required for program enrollment and application completion to see if it aligns with your needs.
It might be worth calling your local Stop & Shop to confirm their current check cashing policy and any updates to fees or requirements.
11. Publix
Publix, a supermarket chain with over 1,286 stores in the Southern US, offers check cashing services. Its presence stretches across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. However, it’s crucial to remember that Publix charges a fee for check cashing, which varies depending on the location.
While they cash personal and payroll checks, it’s always best to inquire about their policy on other types of checks to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
12. Giant Eagle
Giant Eagle, a supermarket chain with over 216 locations across Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, offers check cashing services. While convenient, their fees can vary depending on the store itself, the type of check you have, and the amount of the check. The good news is they don’t charge fees for cashing child support checks.
They accept various check types, including personal, payroll, government, and even traveler’s checks. However, an important requirement to remember is that you must have a Giant Eagle Advantage card to cash a check at any of their stores. Be sure to call your local Giant Eagle to confirm their current check cashing fees and any updates to their policy.
13. Baker’s
If you’re in the Omaha, Nebraska area and looking to cash a check, Baker’s, a Kroger subsidiary supermarket chain, might be an option. Within some Baker’s locations, you’ll find Money Services centers that offer check cashing services.
It’s important to note that Baker’s charges fees, which start at $3. The exact fee may vary depending on the check amount and type. They can handle a variety of checks, including payroll checks, insurance settlements, government checks, tax refund checks, and even business checks. However, since not all Baker’s locations have Money Services centers, it’s always a good idea to call your local store beforehand to confirm their check cashing availability and current fees.
14. Vons
Vons, a supermarket chain with over 325 locations in Southern California and Southern Nevada, offers check cashing services. However, there are some key things to consider before heading to your local Vons. Unlike other stores with standardized check cashing policies, Vons allows individual stores to set their fees and limitations. This means the fee you pay and the type of checks they accept can vary depending on the specific location.
While they generally cash personal and payroll checks, it’s always best to inquire about their specific policy to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
15. Wegmans
Wegmans, a grocery store chain with over 100 stores in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic US, offers check cashing as a perk to its Shoppers Club members. If you have a free Shoppers Club card, you can cash personal checks at its stores. However, it’s important to remember that this benefit is exclusive to members, so non-members will be subject to fees or may be unable to cash checks.
To avoid any hassles, it’s always recommended to call your local Wegmans to confirm their current policy on check cashing, particularly if you aren’t a Shoppers Club member.
16. Food 4 Less
Kroger subsidiary Food 4 Less offers check cashing services at 104 locations across California, Illinois, and Indiana. While convenient, it’s important to be aware of their fee structure, which varies depending on the value of your check and the specific store location. Fees typically range from $3 to $7.50.
The good news is Food 4 Less cashes various checks, including child support, payroll, government, tax refund, insurance settlement, and even business checks. However, to avoid surprises, call your local Food 4 Less to confirm their current check cashing fees for the specific type and amount of check you have.
17. Ingles
Ingles, a grocery store chain with over 190 locations in the southeastern United States, offers check cashing services, but with a few key requirements. First, they only cash personal and payroll checks, so be sure your check falls into one of those categories. Second, you must have an Ingles Advantage Card to use their check cashing service. These cards are free to obtain, but without one, you won’t be able to cash a check at Ingles.
An additional factor to consider is their fee structure. Ingles charges a fee for check cashing, but the amount varies depending on the location. To avoid surprises, call your preferred Ingles store to confirm their current check cashing policy, including any fees and the types of checks they typically accept.
18. Food City
Food City offers a straightforward check-cashing option at its 132 locations across the country. It charges a flat fee of $3 to cash a check, which is relatively inexpensive. The company accepts a variety of check types, including payroll, rebate, stimulus, and government checks. The maximum check amount it will accept is $1,000, which is sufficient for most common check-cashing needs.
An added benefit of Food City is its extended operating hours. Many stores stay open from 6 a.m. to midnight, making it convenient to cash a check outside of standard business hours. However, it’s always a good idea to call your local Food City to confirm their current check cashing policy and hours of operation.
19. Shaw’s
Shaw’s, a grocery store chain with 150 locations in New England and owned by Albertsons, offers check cashing services. However, there are some key things to consider before heading to your local Shaw’s. Unlike some stores with standardized check cashing policies, Shaw’s allows individual stores to set their fees and limitations. This means the fee you pay and the type of checks they accept can vary depending on the specific location.
Since Shaw’s only cashes personal and payroll checks, be sure your check falls into one of those categories. To avoid surprises, it’s crucial to call your preferred Shaw’s store beforehand to confirm their current check cashing policy, including any fees and the types of checks they typically accept.
20. City Market
City Market, a Kroger subsidiary with stores in Colorado, Wyoming, and Ohio, can be an option for cashing your check. They offer check cashing services at their 35 retail locations, but be aware that their fees vary depending on two main factors: the value of your check and the specific store location. Generally, expect fees to range from $3 to $7.50.
The good news is they cash various checks, including child support, payroll, government, tax refund, insurance settlement, and even business checks. However, to ensure a smooth transaction, call your local City Market beforehand to confirm their current check cashing fees for the specific type and amount of check you have.
21. WinCo Foods
WinCo Foods, a supermarket chain with over 130 stores in the western United States, offers check cashing services, but it’s not for everyone. They have a reputation for accepting a wider variety of checks than some stores, including two-party checks, insurance settlement checks, and even manually written payroll checks. However, this convenience comes at a cost.
WinCo Foods charges a tiered fee structure. The fee is $5 for checks up to $500. If your check exceeds $500, the fee jumps to $10. Be aware that these fees are higher than other check-cashing options. Some check types, like money orders and finance loan checks, may not be accepted.
To avoid surprises, it’s always a good idea to call your local WinCo Foods to confirm their current check cashing policy, including fees and accepted check types.
22. Winn-Dixie
Winn-Dixie, a grocery store chain with roughly 500 stores in the southeastern US, offers check cashing services, but with some limitations. It’s important to know upfront that most Winn-Dixie locations only cash a specific type of check: electronically signed payroll checks. Additionally, they have a maximum check amount of $500.
On the plus side, their fee is a flat $3.50, which is relatively affordable for check cashing services. However, the limited check types and amount might not suit everyone. Since Winn-Dixie’s policy can vary by location, it’s always wise to call your preferred store beforehand to confirm their current check cashing policy, including any updates to fees or accepted check types.
23. Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter, a Kroger subsidiary supermarket chain with over 260 stores in the southeastern United States, offers check cashing services. However, their fees can vary depending on the location and the type of check you have.
Be prepared to pay anywhere from $3 to $7.50 to cash your check. While they accept various check types, it’s always best to call your local Harris Teeter beforehand to confirm their current check cashing policy and fees. This way, you can avoid surprises and ensure they accommodate your check-cashing needs.
24. Market Basket
Market Basket, a supermarket chain with 88 stores in New England, offers check cashing services, but with some limitations. They specifically only cash payroll checks, so be sure yours falls into that category before heading to the store. Another restriction to consider is their maximum check amount of $50, which may not suit everyone’s needs.
Their fees are also a potential drawback. While they start at a base rate of 1.25% of the check amount, this fee can vary depending on the specific Market Basket location. To avoid surprises, it’s always best to call your local store to confirm their current check cashing policy, including any updates to fees or the maximum check amount.
25. Pay Less Super Markets
Pay Less Super Markets, a Kroger subsidiary located in Indiana can be an option for cashing your checks. They offer check cashing services at their stores, but the fees depend on the type of check you have and the specific store location. Generally, expect fees to range from $3 to $7.50.
The good news is they accept various checks, including child support, payroll, and business checks. However, to ensure a smooth transaction, call your local Pay Less Super Markets beforehand to confirm their current check cashing fees for the specific type and amount of check you have.
26. Food Lion
Food Lion, a grocery store chain with over 1,100 locations across the US, offers check cashing services, but their fees depend on the state you’re in. This can be a drawback if you seek a standardized fee structure.
While they accept various check types, including personal, government, rebate, tax refund, and even traveler’s checks, there are limits to consider. The maximum amount they will accept for non-payroll checks is $500, while payroll checks have a higher limit of $1,000.
To avoid surprises, it’s always recommended to call your local Food Lion before heading in to confirm their current check cashing policy in your state, including any fees and limitations. This way you can ensure they can accommodate your specific check-cashing needs.
27. Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee, a supermarket chain with over 240 stores in the Midwestern US, offers check cashing at some of their locations. This can be a convenient option, especially if you need to cash a check after regular business hours, as some stores operate 24/7. However, there are a few key things to consider before heading to your local Hy-Vee.
First, be aware that check cashing isn’t available at all Hy-Vee locations. It’s always best to call your preferred store beforehand to confirm they offer the service.
Second, their fees vary depending on the transaction, typically ranging from $2 to $6 per check. The specific fee will depend on the store location and the amount of your check.
Finally, Hy-Vee has varying check cashing limits, with some stores allowing up to $2,000 and others reaching $5,000. Confirm the maximum amount they will accept at your chosen store to avoid surprises.
28. Dillons
Dillons, a Kroger-owned grocery store chain with locations throughout the Midwest, offers check cashing services for various check types. This can be a convenient option if you need to cash a payroll check, income tax refund check, insurance settlement check, government check, or even a business check. However, it’s important to be aware of their fee structure.
Dillons charges fees that start at $3, but the exact amount can vary depending on the location and the type of check you have. In some cases, the fee could be as high as $7.50.
The good news is that Dillons has a high check cashing limit of $5,000, which is sufficient for most common check cashing needs. However, their policy and fees may change, so a quick call to your local store can ensure a smooth transaction.
Local liquor stores
Local liquor stores can sometimes be an option for cashing checks, though it depends on your state’s regulations. Since these laws vary, some liquor stores will offer check cashing while others won’t.
Here are a few examples:
- Benny’s Package Store: Atlanta, Georgia
- Cork ‘n Bottle Liquors: Laurel, Maryland
- Steve’s Discount Liquors: Wilmington, Delaware
The best way to find out is to do a quick web search. Simply type “liquor stores that cash checks [your city, town or state]” into Google. This search will turn up any stores in your area that provide this service. It only takes a moment and can be a convenient option if you’re in need.
How do you cash a check online and get the money instantly?
Online check cashing with instant access to funds can be a tempting option, but it’s crucial to understand the process and potential drawbacks before diving in. Here’s a breakdown for informed decision-making:
There are several check-cashing apps available, like PayPal, Ingo Money, or Brink’s Money Prepaid. These apps let you deposit checks electronically using your smartphone’s camera and receive the money quickly, often within minutes.
Here’s how it works:
- Choose your app wisely: Research different apps to compare features and fees. Some may offer faster processing or lower fees than others.
- Download and set up: Find your chosen app on the App Store or Google Play Store, download it, and create an account if required.
- Link your account: Connect your bank account or debit card to the app to receive the deposited funds.
- Capture the check: Open the app and use your phone’s camera to take clear pictures of the front and back of your check. Ensure all information is visible and readable.
- Enter check details: After capturing the images, provide details like the check amount and payee information. Double-check everything for accuracy.
- Submit for review: Once you enter the information, submit the check for review. The app will verify its authenticity and process the deposit.
- Receive the funds (with caution): If approved, the funds are deposited into your linked account, typically within minutes. However, some apps may charge a fee for this service. Factor these fees into your decision when choosing an app.
- Hold onto the check: Don’t discard the physical check until the funds have been deposited successfully into your account. This is a safety precaution in case of any discrepancies.
While convenient, online check cashing has its downsides. Some apps may not accept all check types, and there’s always a risk of the check being declined or the deposit delayed. Additionally, some apps may charge a significant fee for the instant access feature.
For these reasons, carefully evaluate your needs and weigh the pros and cons before choosing online check cashing. In some cases, traditional methods like visiting your bank or a store with a check cashing service might be a more secure and cost-effective option.
How can I cash a check online without a bank account?
Even without a traditional bank account, cashing a check isn’t impossible. Here are some alternative solutions to consider:
- Prepaid debit cards: Certain prepaid debit cards allow mobile check deposit. This means you can download the card provider’s app, take clear pictures of your check using your smartphone, and deposit the check electronically onto the card. Once the funds are deposited, you can use the prepaid debit card for purchases or withdraw cash from an ATM, depending on the card’s features.
- Mobile check deposit with specific cards: Not all prepaid cards offer mobile check deposit. For instance, Visa’s Netspend card is known for this feature, but others may not have it. Always check with the card provider before obtaining a card specifically for check cashing.
- Check cashing services: Check cashing stores and some retailers like Walmart offer check cashing services. This can be a quick option, but it comes with a cost. Their fees can be high, so consider this method only if the other options are unavailable.
- Signing over the check (with caution): If you have a trusted friend or family member with a bank account, you could sign the check over to them. This allows them to deposit the check into their account and then give you the cash. Not all banks accept third-party checks (checks made out to someone else), and there may be associated fees. Only consider this option with someone you trust implicitly, as endorsing a check makes you liable if there are any problems.
Remember, each option has its limitations and fees. Carefully evaluate your situation and choose the method that best suits your needs. In some cases, opening a bank account, even a basic one, might be a better long-term solution for managing your finances.
The bottom line
While some states may limit check cashing services at liquor stores, there’s an alternative! Many grocery stores that also sell alcoholic beverages offer check cashing services alongside their regular grocery selection.
This means major chains like Walmart, Kroger, Hy-Vee, Wegmans, and Albertsons can be a one-stop shop for groceries and check cashing needs. So, if you’ve been wondering, “Are there any liquor stores that cash checks near me?” Consider these grocery store options instead. Depending on your state’s regulations, they might be a more reliable solution.