How Do You Cash a Check?

You cash out a check at the issuing bank, a retailer that cashes checks, at a check-cashing store, or deposit it at an ATM into your bank account.

Although we live in the digital age where most payments are conducted online between bank accounts and e-wallets, there are still places, like casinos and bookmakers, that issue checks, especially when larger amounts of money are involved.

In this guide, we will be explaining step-by-step how to cash out a check so you can enjoy those sweet winnings!

How to Cash Out a Check?

You cash out a check by endorsing and then submitting it to your bank. To exchange a paper check issued by a casino, bookmaker or any other company, you first have to endorse it by signing the back of it. Once you have done that, you have several options to submit the check for payment to your bank.

You can cash a check in person by visiting your local bank branch and speaking to the teller, by using an ATM to deposit the check and then withdrawing the amount in cash, by visiting a retailer that cashes checks, or by using check-cashing apps. Note that in some cases you can only cash out a check at the issuing bank or credit union.

Almost all banks and other places that cash out checks will require some form of identification. We therefore recommend taking your driver’s license, passport, or social security card with you when cashing out a check.

Some of the most common places where people cash out checks are local retailers and grocery stores, which all accept preprinted, payroll, government, and two-party personal checks.

How Do You Cash a Check Without a Bank Account?

Even if you don’t have a bank account, it is still possible to cash a check, but you will have to pay a hefty fee for doing so. 

One of the easiest ways of cashing out a check without a bank account is by visiting a local branch of the issuing bank or credit union. In most cases, you will be able to receive the value of the check in cash from the teller without any hiccups.

How Do You Cash a Check Online?

Another way of cashing out a check is by using a check-cashing app, or of course your mobile banking account at your preferred bank. There are many of these apps nowadays, with T-Mobile Money being the most well-known one. Simply sign in to the app, take photos of both sides of the check, select how you want to be paid out, and submit the check for approval through the app. 

The check-cashing app will then deposit the money into your bank account or e-wallet like PayPal, depending on your preferences. With some check-cashing apps it is also possible to directly use checks to pay any outstanding bills you might have.

Places You Want To Avoid Cashing Out Checks

We definitely recommend to avoid cashing out checks at check-cashing stores, also known as cash-advance shops or payday-lending places. These companies typically charge way higher fees than other places that can cash out checks.

What To Look Out For When Accepting Checks

First of all, you should definitely be aware of the fact that accepting payments in the form of checks is riskier than being paid in cold hard cash. Until the moment you actually cash out a check, all kinds of things can go wrong or could have already gone wrong. The issuer can go bankrupt or become insolvent for instance, causing the check to bounce, the check can be false, or the check can be unsigned, which makes it impossible for you to cash out.

Therefore we always recommend to double-check a check’s authenticity (yes, that pun was intended) to validate the date and check amount, to make sure the check is actually written to you (your name must be spelled correctly), and to cash out the check as soon as possible.

How Do You Cash a Check – Opening a Checking Account

If you don’t have a checking account yet, you can easily open one by choosing a bank or credit union, providing the institution where you open the checking account with the required details, and then making the required initial deposit into the account.

How Do You Cash a Check – Conclusion

Now that you know exactly how and where to cash out a check, you can avoid overpaying for this service, and finally cash out those bookie or casino dollars!

FAQ

Can I Cash a Check at Any Bank?

Most banks and credit unions will cash checks for anyone, including non-customers. However, there is no law that obligates them to do so.

How Can I Cash a Check Online Instantly?

You can cash a check online instantly using cash-check apps like T-Mobile Money or your mobile banking account.

Who Can Cash a check Without an ID?

You can try cashing out a check without an ID at a cash-advance shop or payday-lending place. However, chances are that they won’t accept the check and if they do, you will probably have to pay a high fee for their service.