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I always hear the question, “Where can I find a check cashing machine near me?”. There are several reasons why this might be your situation.
Perhaps you need to cash a check after banks close for the day, or you don’t have a bank account. Whatever the reason, getting your check cashed quickly and conveniently is important.
If you’re not lucky enough to have a 24-hour check cashing service nearby, a check cashing machine, like an ATM or kiosk, might be the perfect solution! In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about check cashing machines and how to find one near you.
What is a check cashing machine?
A check cashing machine is any self-service machine that lets you convert your paper checks into cash. There are two main types: ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) and check cashing kiosks.
Check cashing kiosks are stand-alone machines found in convenience stores or retail locations. They have a touchscreen interface and, like most check cashing services, charge a fee for turning your check into cash.
No matter which machine you use, there are a few things you’ll almost always need:
- The paper check itself, of course.
- A valid government-issued ID, like a driver’s license.
- Don’t forget to sign the back of your check before using the machine!
Most kiosks will accept common checks like paychecks and government checks (think Social Security or tax refunds). Depending on the kiosk, they might even handle personal or cashier’s checks.
ATMs are a different story. Typically, to cash a check at an ATM, you’ll need:
- Your check, already signed on the back.
- Your debit card, ATM card, or prepaid debit card.
- The PIN number for your card.
Remember, ATMs are primarily for your bank account, so they might have restrictions on what kind of checks they accept. Check with your bank or ATM provider for their specific policy.
Where to find a check cashing machine near you
This section provides information on where to find a check cashing machine in your area.
Below, you’ll find details about two prominent providers of check-cashing kiosks.
1. SAM Check Cashing
SAM Check Cashing machine is a great option if you need to cash a money order, paycheck, government check (including tax refunds, stimulus checks, food stamps, and Social Security checks) without a bank account.
The process is simple: find a SAM machine in a grocery or convenience store, follow the on-screen instructions, and provide your phone number and ID. The fees are typically between 2% and 5%, depending on your location, which is fair compared to other check cashing services.
It’s important to note that SAM prioritizes security and won’t accept cashier’s checks or personal checks due to the higher risk of fraud with these types. Additionally, they only accept checks dated within the last 21 days, so ensure your check isn’t too old.
To find a SAM check cashing machine near you, use the link I’ve provided to easily search their website. It’s a quick and convenient way to turn your check into cash!
2. Mr. Payroll
Another popular option for check cashing is Mr. Payroll. They offer a wider variety of checks than SAM Check Cashing, including paychecks, government checks, insurance checks, two-party checks, cashier’s checks, Comchecks, money orders, and even 401(k) distribution checks. This makes them a good choice if you have a check that SAM wouldn’t accept.
Mr. Payroll’s fees are typically a bit lower than SAM’s, ranging from 1% to 2%, depending on the type of check. Like SAM, their kiosks are conveniently located inside convenience stores, gas stations, and other shops.
Using the link, you can easily search for a Mr. Payroll location near you. They’re a great option for a quick and secure way to cash a wider variety of checks.
ATMs with check cashing
Consider ATMs as an option, especially for their unbeatable convenience. In most cases, ATMs are open 24/7, even on weekends, so you can cash your check whenever needed.
However, there are a few key things to remember:
- ATM ownership matters: To cash a check, you’ll typically need to be an account holder at the bank that owns the ATM. If you don’t have an account, you’ll likely be charged fees and unable to complete the transaction. Some banks might allow non-customers to deposit checks, but cashing is usually restricted to account holders.
- Depositing vs. Cashing: Technically, you’re depositing the check and then withdrawing the funds, not directly cashing it. But the result is the same – you get cash in hand.
- Not all ATMs are created equal: While check-cashing ATMs are becoming more common, it’s a good idea to double-check that the specific machine you plan to use accepts deposits. Some older models might not have that functionality. Look for ATMs with check scanners, as they’re more likely to allow immediate access to your deposited funds.
Here’s a list of some major banks known to have ATMs that accept check deposits:
- Bank of America
- Capital One
- Chase
- Citibank
- Citizens Bank
- Fifth Third Bank
- M&T Bank
- TD Bank
- US Bank
- Wells Fargo
More check-cashing options
There are situations where you might need options beyond check-cashing kiosks and ATMs. If speed and convenience are your top priorities, here are a few additional ways to consider cashing your check:
Grocery stores
Grocery stores can be surprisingly convenient! They often offer similar hours to ATMs, with some even boasting 24/7 service—perfect for those times when traditional banking hours just don’t cut it.
While grocery stores typically won’t accept personal checks, they can handle many other types, including paychecks, government checks, and money orders. This makes them a great option for a quick cash infusion.
Remember that they generally only accept checks with a magnetic ink strip, not handwritten ones. Like most check cashing services, you’ll need to bring a valid ID for verification.
Here’s the good news: many grocery stores offer check cashing services. They might not be open 24/7, but many have extended hours, making them a great go-to for fast and convenient check cashing.
Here are some grocery stores that provide check-cashing services:
- Hy-Vee
- Kroger and its subsidiaries (including stores like Ralphs, Fred Meyer, and Mariano’s)
- Walmart
- WinCo Foods
Gas stations
Gas stations and convenience stores can also be lifesavers for cashing a check in a pinch. Some national chains even offer 24-hour check cashing, making them a great option for those unexpected situations.
Gas stations can also be a good alternative to grocery stores if you’re short on time and want to avoid potential lines. However, it’s important to note that gas station check cashing services may not be as widely available as those at grocery stores, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their policy.
Here are some gas stations and convenience stores known for their check-cashing services:
Check cashing stores
Let’s not forget about check-cashing stores themselves! These businesses specialize in handling checks, and many offer 24-hour service, perfect for those times a traditional bank just won’t do.
The downside, however, is that check-cashing stores typically charge fees. These fees can vary depending on the location and the type of check you have. To avoid any surprises, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and get a quote before heading in.
It’s also worth noting that many check-cashing stores offer other financial services beyond just cashing checks. Some might offer payday loans, which I strongly advise against due to their high costs. However, depending on the store, you might find options like installment loans or money transfer services available.
Here are a couple of national chains known for 24-hour check cashing:
There are many other independent stores as well, so a quick online search can help you find one near you.
The bottom line
If you need a check cashing machine nearby, there are several options available to you.
You can easily find self-service check cashing machines at various locations, such as SAM Check Cashing and Mr. Payroll. Many banks, including Bank of America, Fifth Third Bank, and Wells Fargo, also offer check-cashing ATMs.
For added convenience, you can also consider cashing your checks at grocery stores like Walmart and Kroger, gas stations such as 7-Eleven and Pilot Flying J, and dedicated check-cashing stores like PLS Check Cashing and Speedy Cash.
With these numerous choices, you can confidently cash your checks anytime, any day of the week, using the self-check cashing machines near you.