How to cash a check: 4 tips for withdrawing money via ATM or app.

Paper checks are no longer as common as they once were, but in many cases you will still receive checks and need to cash them as quickly as possible . The question is: where to cash them, how to do it safely and inexpensively , and is it possible to cash them without a bank account ?

This article will guide you on how to cash a check both online and in person , helping you verify its validity and choose the option that best suits your circumstances. In just a few minutes of reading, you'll learn how to get your money quickly, avoid risks, and avoid unnecessary fees — exactly what most people are looking for when they have a check in their hands.

How to quickly cash a check

Make sure you have everything ready before cashing your check.

• Bring the original check, intact and without any tears or alterations.

• Prepare valid identification documents (ID card/citizen identification card or passport).

• If so, please bring your bank card or account information for faster processing.

Cash checks directly at the bank.

• Go to the bank that issued the check or the bank where you have an account.

• Meet with the teller and present your check and identification.

• Depending on the bank's policy, you may:

  • Get cash right at the counter.

  • Alternatively, fill out a deposit form , wait for the bank to process it, and then withdraw the money.

Cash your checks via ATM or banking app.

• Sign the back of the check with the recipient's name.

• Choose one of the following options:

  • Insert the check into an ATM that supports check deposits.

  • Take a picture of the check and upload it to the bank's app or website to send money online.

• Once the money is in your account, you can withdraw cash or use it immediately.

Important notes for safely exchanging checks.

• Always check the information on the check (recipient's name, amount, signature) before submitting it.

• Ask for clarification regarding check exchange fees and disbursement time.

• Keep the receipt or transaction notification until you are certain you have received the money.

Tip 1: Quickly cash checks at ATMs

Step 1: Check if the ATM supports check deposits.

• Not all ATMs allow you to cash checks or deposit checks.

• Most ATMs only accept checks from customers who have accounts at that bank .

• Some ATMs still allow people without accounts to deposit checks, but the waiting time for the money to be credited will be longer .

Timeframe for cashing checks

• According to regulations, banks are typically required to disburse check funds within a maximum of 5 business days .

• With some types of checks or new accounts, the waiting time may be longer while the bank verifies the information.

The types of checks that ATMs in the US typically accept are:

• Personal check

• Cashier's check

• Certified check

• US government check

Important notes before depositing checks via ATM.

• Carefully verify the issuer of the check (it must be a bank in the United States).

• Read the instructions on the ATM screen to make sure your type of check is accepted.

• Keep the transaction receipt until the check is credited to your account.

Step 2: Endorse the check before depositing or exchanging money.

• Endorsing a check is a mandatory step when you want to cash a check or deposit it into an account.

• Turn the check over, and you'll find three blank lines for your signature.

How to properly endorse a check

• Sign the correct name of the check recipient on one of the blank lines.

• Using blue or black ink , sign clearly, ensuring the name matches the name on the front of the check.

• After signing, deposit or cash the check immediately ; don't delay.

Why you shouldn't endorse a check too early.

• Once signed, a check becomes an "anonymous document," meaning anyone holding it can exchange it for cash.

• If a signed check is lost, the risk of losing money is very high.

Who is responsible for endorsing the check?

• The person whose name is listed in the payee section on the front of the check is the one who must sign it.

• If the check is made payable to [Name A] & [Name B] :

  • Both people must sign in order to exchange or deposit a check.

• If the check is written [Name A] or [Name B] :

  • Only one of the two people needs to sign to cash the check.

Important note

• Rules for endorsing checks may vary between banks or check-checking organizations.

• Before signing, you should ask the teller for clarification to avoid having your transaction rejected or receiving your money delayed.

Step 3: Deposit the check via your bank's ATM.

Advantages of depositing checks at ATMs

• Modern ATMs allow you to deposit paper checks directly into your account without having to queue at the counter.

• The money may be credited to your account immediately or later, usually within a maximum of 3 business days , depending on the bank.

• If your account has funds available, you can still withdraw cash temporarily while waiting for your check to be processed.

Step-by-step guide on how to deposit a check via ATM.

1. Insert your debit card into the ATM.

2. Enter your PIN and press Enter.

3. Select the "Deposit Check" option.

4. Select the account you want to deposit the check into.

5. Insert the check into the check slot as instructed on the screen.

6. Confirm the amount on the check to complete the transaction.

Withdraw money after depositing a check.

• Once the transaction is complete, you can:

  • Withdraw cash immediately if the bank allows the use of the advance payment.

  • Or wait until the check is processed before withdrawing the money.

Important note

• Ensure the check has been properly endorsed before submitting it.

• Keep the ATM receipt until the money is officially deposited into your account.

• Each bank has different regulations regarding the time it takes to disburse checks , so check beforehand to proactively plan your spending.

Tip 2: Deposit checks online via the bank's app or website.

What is electronic check payment?

• Many banks now allow online check deposits via mobile banking apps or official websites.

• You can simply use your phone's camera or a photo scanning tool to upload the check image; there's no need to go to the bank right away.

Step-by-step guide on how to deposit a check online

• Access the bank's website or open the bank's app on your phone.

• Follow the instructions displayed on the screen precisely (each bank has its own procedures).

• Endorse the back of the check , then:

  • Take photos of the front and back of the check.

  • The image needs to be clear, well-lit, and free from obscured corners or blurry text.

• Send a photo of the check and confirm the transaction details.

What to do after submitting a check online?

• Keep the original check until the bank notifies you that the money has been deposited into your account.

• Only cancel (tear up) a check after you are certain it has been successfully processed.

• Once the money has been deposited into the account:

  • You will still need to go to an ATM or bank branch to withdraw cash if needed.

Important notes to avoid risks.

• Do not cancel the check immediately after taking a photo of it, to avoid the transaction being suspended or rejected.

• Regularly check the in-app notifications to confirm that the funds have been credited.

• Holding onto checks until the money is deposited into your account is a practical recommendation from financial experts , helping to minimize disputes should problems arise.

Tip 3: How to cash a check at the bank

Step 1: Cash the check in person at the bank branch.

Bring your check and identification to the nearest bank.

• If you have a bank account , the bank will assist you in exchanging a valid check for cash.

• When conducting transactions at the counter, you are required to present photo identification.

Identification documents are generally accepted.

• A driver's license or passport is the most common and easily accepted option.

• In some cases, the bank may accept:

  • Military ID card

  • Student ID card

• The type of document accepted depends on each bank's policy.

The role of debit cards

• Many banks prefer customers who bring their debit cards when cashing checks.

• If you don't have the tag , you can:

  • Additional forms need to be filled out .

  • Going through an additional verification step makes the processing time longer.

What should you do before going to the bank?

• Call or contact a branch for clarification:

  • Accepted types of identification documents

  • Is a debit card required?

• This helps you avoid wasting time making multiple trips.

Cases where no documents need to be presented.

• If you deposit a check via ATM or through your mobile banking app , typically:

  • No need to present identification in person.

  • Verification is done through the bank account.

Step 2: Fill out the deposit form and transact directly with the teller.

Why should you cash your check at the teller counter?

• This is the fastest, safest, and least risky way to cash a check.

• The teller provides direct support, helping to minimize errors and promptly address any issues that may arise.

What to prepare when going to the counter

• Valid original check

• Photo ID (as required by the bank)

• Debit card, if available

In case you don't have your debit card with you.

• You can still cash checks, but you need:

  • Fill out the deposit slip with the following information:

    • Account holder's full name

    • Bank account number

    • Contact address

    • The amount written on the check

The safest way to endorse a check.

• Do not sign the back of the check before going to the bank.

• Only sign in front of the teller when they ask you to.

• This method helps:

  • Avoid the risk of losing signed checks.

  • Ensure that checks are processed only for the intended purpose and to the correct recipient.

Important note

• Following the teller's instructions will help you cash your check faster.

• If you have any questions about procedures or paperwork, ask at the counter to avoid having to return multiple times.

Step 3: Deposit the check into your account and withdraw the money when needed.

When does the bank require you to deposit a check instead of paying with cash?

• Some banks do not pay cash directly , but require checks to be deposited into the account first.

• This usually happens when:

  • The check was issued from another bank.

  • The bank needs more time to verify and reconcile the checks.

How to handle a situation where you need cash immediately.

• If you already have money in your account , you can:

  • Deposit check into account

  • Withdraw cash immediately with the amount you need.

• This method allows you to use the money without having to wait for the check to be disbursed .

Risks associated with invalid checks

• If the bank that issued the check refuses to pay (the check is returned or "backed")

• Your bank will:

  • Deduct the amount that was advanced from your account.

Fees incurred when a check is returned.

• Most banks charge a fee for processing returned checks.

• Common fee levels:

  • Approximately $10–35 , depending on each bank's policy.

Note the facts

• You should only withdraw money before the check is processed if you are sure the check is valid.

• With checks from unknown sources, it's best to wait for full clearance to avoid fees and financial risks.

Tip 4: Cash checks when you don't have a bank account.

Step 1: Go to the bank that issued the check to exchange the money.

How to identify the bank that issued the check

• Looking at the front of the check , you will see the name of the issuing bank.

• This is the bank where the check writer's account is opened.

Why should you cash your check at the issuing bank?

• Most banks will cash a check if:

  • The check is issued by that same bank.

  • The check writer's account has sufficient funds.

• In many cases, banks also have a legal obligation to pay out valid checks.

Check exchange fees to note

• If you don't have an account at the bank that issued the check :

  • Banks may charge a fee for exchanging checks.

  • The fee varies depending on each bank's policy.

• Some states in the US have regulations:

  • Banks should exchange checks free of charge , even if you are not their customer.

How to cash a check correctly

• You are required to go to the teller counter and work with a teller.

• You cannot cash a check at an ATM if you do not have an account at that bank.

• Things to prepare:

  • Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport, etc.)

In the case that the bank refuses to exchange the check.

• If the check writer's account:

  • Not enough money

  • Or the check shows signs of risk.

• The bank is not obligated to pay.

Note the facts

• Cashing a check at the issuing bank is usually the method:

  • Fastest

  • Least risk

  • You can easily get cash immediately if the check is valid.

• Before you go, you should call ahead to ask about:

  • Check exchange fee

  • Documents to bring

Step 2: Exchange your check for cash at supermarkets or large stores.

Why choose a large retail store?

• Many large supermarket and department store chains (such as Walmart) allow checks to be exchanged for cash.

• Typically applicable to:

  • Czech salary

  • Business checks

  • Some places may accept personal checks.

• The fees are usually lower than at a bank where you don't have an account or professional check-making services.

How to cash a check at the store

• Bring the original check and valid photo identification.

• Go to the Customer Service counter.

• Only sign the back of the check when requested by the staff ; do not sign beforehand.

Additional requirements may be encountered.

• Some stores require:

  • You are a member of the loyalty program.

  • These programs are usually free and quick to register.

Check exchange fee at the store

• Most stores charge a small fee , which varies depending on:

  • The value of the check

• Here's a real-world example:

  • Walmart charges a maximum of $4 on checks ≤ $1,000.

  • Collect $8 on checks over $1,000.

Note the facts

• Not all stores accept personal checks , so be sure to ask beforehand.

• Fees and regulations may vary by state or retail chain.

Step 3: Deposit the check and withdraw the money via ATM using your prepaid debit card.

What is a prepaid debit card?

• Many financial institutions now offer prepaid debit cards to people who do not have a bank account.

• The card functions almost like a regular debit card, but doesn't require opening a traditional bank account.

How to cash a check using a prepaid card

• Once you have a prepaid card, you can usually:

  • Deposit checks via ATM ( check deposit supported)

  • Then withdraw cash at the ATM.

• Depending on the type of card, you may experience:

  • Check deposit fee

  • Withdrawal fees

  • Or monthly maintenance fee

Common examples in practice

• Some prepaid cards are issued through:

  • Employer (e.g., payroll card)

• With these cards, you can:

  • Deposit check

  • Withdraw cash at any ATM that accepts debit cards from the same network.

Prepaid cards from major banks

• Many major banks also issue prepaid debit cards.

• Some cards allow this:

  • Deposit the check at the ATM of that same bank.

  • In return, there is a monthly maintenance fee (the fee varies depending on the bank).

Popular prepaid card issuers

• Prepaid cards are typically issued through major financial institutions such as:

  • Visa

  • MasterCard

  • American Express

Important notes before use

• Check carefully:

  • List of ATMs that accept check deposits

  • Detailed fee schedule (check deposit, cash withdrawal, monthly fees)

• Compare costs to ensure this is the most suitable and cost-effective way to cash your checks for your needs.

Step 4: Sign the transfer of the check to a trusted friend.

When should you sign a check for someone else?

• This method is suitable when you cannot personally go to cash checks , but have a very trustworthy relative or friend.

• That person can take the check to their bank , exchange it, and give you the cash back.

• For safety, it's best to accompany them to the bank , although it's not mandatory.

How to properly sign a check for transfer

• On the back of the check , write clearly:

  • “Pay to the order of _______” (Please fill in the full name of the recipient)

• Sign your name right below this line.

• Some banks may require:

  • Initial near the amount in words and numbers on the front of the check.

Important note regarding risks

• Only sign checks for people you truly trust completely.

• Do not ask strangers or acquaintances to exchange checks for you.

• Never exchange checks for others if you don't fully understand the check's origin.

Limitations of this format

• Some banks do not accept third-party checks.

• The reason is the high risk of fraud and disputes , so the check may be refused.

Practical recommendations

• Before signing the transfer agreement, you should:

  • Call the bank beforehand to ask if they accept transferable checks.

• If the check is of a large value, priority should be given to:

  • Deposit the check into your own account.

  • Alternatively, you can cash the check directly at the issuing bank.

Step 5: Use a professional check exchange service as a last resort.

When should you consider using check cashing services?

• Only use these as a last resort, such as banks, ATMs, or large retail stores.

• Suitable if you:

  • No bank account

  • Need cash immediately from personal check or paycheck?

Advantages and disadvantages you should know

• Advantage

  • This is usually the quickest way to receive most of the money on a check on the same day.

  • We accept most types of checks , even those that others refuse.

• Disadvantages

  • The fees are very high , often over 10% of the check value.

  • The high cost stems from the risk that check counters accept when processing almost any type of check.

Why are the fees so high?

• These units understand that:

  • The customer needs money urgently.

  • Few alternatives

• Therefore, they charge higher fees than banks or supermarkets.

Important notes before use

• Ask for clarification on the total fees before agreeing to exchange the check.

• Quick comparison with:

  • Fees at large supermarkets

  • Prepaid debit card opening fee, if applicable.

• You should only exchange it when:

  • I really need the money right now.

  • Accept losing a significant portion of the money on the check.

Practical recommendations

• If you can wait a few days, prioritize:

  • Deposit check into account

  • Or cash the check at the issuing bank.

• Professional check cashing services should be considered a last resort , not a long-term option.

Tip 5: How to cash checks safely and avoid risks.

Step 1: Ensure the person writing the check is trustworthy.

Why is it necessary to check the reliability of a check?

• If you receive an invalid check or a "foil" check , getting your money back will be difficult and time-consuming.

• For those who have never traded before , the safest approach is still:

  • Payment must be made in cash.

• If you are forced to accept a check, carefully check the information before exchanging it for cash.

Information that must be included on a check.

• Full name and address of the check writer

• Contact information (phone number, email) so that we can contact you if any problems arise.

• The name of the bank issuing the check is clear and legitimate.

How to reduce the risk of underpaying checks

• Contact the bank that issued the check directly.

• Ask:

  • Does the person writing the check have an account at the bank?

  • Does that account have enough money to pay the check ?

• Many banks are willing to verify basic information if you provide the check number and the name of the checkmaker.

Note the facts

• Do not cash the check immediately if:

  • Information on the check is missing or unclear.

  • The check writer avoided providing contact information.

• For large checks, you should:

  • Exchange the check directly at the bank that issued it.

  • Or deposit the check into the account and wait for full approval.

Step 2: Make sure the check is written in your name correctly.

Why must the name on a check be accurate?

• The bank may refuse payment if the name on the check does not match the person cashing the check.

• The name on the check must exactly match the name on a valid photo identification document (driver's license, passport, etc.).

How to request proper name entry

• Request for payment:

  • Write your full name exactly as it appears on your identification documents.

  • Avoid abbreviations, misspellings, or adding/removing characters.

• This is an important step to quickly cash your check , avoiding having it held or requiring corrections.

How to write the amount on a check

• The person writing the check should write:

  • Amount in numbers

  • Amount in words

• These two entries must match ; otherwise, the bank has the right to refuse or delay processing.

If you are a small business owner

• Regulations may vary for individuals.

• Normally:

  • The check will be deposited into the company's bank account.

  • Do not pay cash directly to individuals.

• The business name on the check must match the legal name of the business account.

Note the facts

• Inspect the check immediately upon receipt to request corrections in a timely manner.

• For large checks, you should:

  • Exchange your check at the issuing bank.

  • Alternatively, deposit a check into the account to mitigate risk.

Step 3: Carefully check the check to avoid endorsement errors and the risk of rejection.

Ensure that the information on the check is complete and accurate.

• All information on the check must be filled in completely , including:

  • Release date

  • Amount to be paid

  • Signature of the check writer

• If any item is missing or incorrect, the bank may refuse to cash the check.

Check the date on the check.

• The date on the check is the earliest date you are allowed to withdraw money.

• A check dated on a future date may not be accepted at the time of exchange.

Compare the amount in numbers and in words.

• The box displaying the amount in numbers is located directly below the issue date.

• Make sure that:

  • This amount is correct, representing the amount you are entitled to.

  • It perfectly matches the amount written in words on the left.

• If there is no match, the bank may:

  • Refusal to process

  • Or request additional verification.

Verify the signature on the check.

• A check is only valid when it bears the signature of the account holder who issued the check.

• Missing or invalid signatures mean the check cannot be redeemed.

Identifying signs of counterfeit or fraudulent checks

• Before exchanging a check, take a few minutes to check both the front and back , paying attention to the following:

  • Uneven seam

  • The ink is smudged , the print is blurry.

  • Inconsistent fonts

• These are common signs of a fake or altered check.

Verify with the payer.

• If in doubt, please:

  • Contact the check writer directly.

  • Please reconfirm the amount, date, and payment information.

• This step helps you avoid risks when cashing checks.

Practical advice from financial experts.

• Cashing checks can help you get money quickly , but:

  • High fees

  • It's difficult to file a complaint if you encounter a counterfeit check.

• For first-time payers, consider this:

  • Electronic transfer

  • Or more secure forms of payment

Step 4: Only endorse the check right before exchanging currency.

Why you shouldn't sign a check too early.

• Endorsing a check means signing your name on the back of the check.

• You should only sign right before going to the ATM or entering the bank , in order to:

  • Reduce the risk of losing signed checks.

  • Prevent others from picking it up and exchanging it for cash.

How to properly endorse a check

• Turn the check over.

• Sign your name on the line marked with an "X" on the left.

• The signature must be:

  • Matches the recipient's name on the front of the check.

  • Obviously, use blue or black ink.

In the case where there are multiple recipients of the check.

• If the check reads: “Pay to the order of A and B”

  • All registered members must sign in order to cash the check.

• If the check is deposited into a general account :

  • Usually, only one person in the account needs to sign , depending on the bank's regulations.

Important notes regarding post-signing risks.

• After endorsement (and without any restrictions), the check becomes:

  • "Anonymous documents"

  • In theory, anyone holding a check can exchange it for cash.

• So:

  • Don't sign checks at home beforehand.

  • Do not sign unless you are sure you will cash or deposit the check immediately.

Practical recommendations

• Sign checks only:

  • In front of the teller

  • Or right at the ATM when you're ready to deposit.

• For large checks, you should:

  • Exchange directly at the issuing bank.

  • Or deposit it into an account to reduce risk.

Step 5: Cash the check as soon as possible.

Why you shouldn't keep checks for too long.

• Some types of checks, especially paychecks , have a specific expiration date.

• Even if the check doesn't have an expiration date , many banks:

  • It is not mandatory to accept checks older than 6 months from the date of issue.

Risks of cashing checks late

• The bank can:

  • Reject payment

  • The verification process is more complex.

• The person writing the check may:

  • Close account

  • There wasn't enough money , so the check was returned.

Practical recommendations

• Checks should be cashed immediately upon receipt or as soon as possible.

• Even if you don't need the cash right away, you should still:

  • Deposit a check into the account to "reserve" that amount of money.

Safety tips

• Check:

  • Check issuance date

  • Is there an expiration date ?

• Planning to cash your checks early will help you:

  • Get money quickly

  • Avoid legal risks.

  • No need to reprocess.

Distinguish between different types of checks and the risks to avoid.

The check should be marked "or bearer" (or the person holding the check).

• If the check says “_____ or bearer” , then:

  • Anyone holding a check can exchange it for cash.

• This type of check carries a very high risk :

  • Losing a check means losing money.

• Only accept when:

  • The person paying is truly trustworthy.

  • You can cash the check immediately.

Order check

• This is the type of check:

  • Only pay the person whose name is on the receipt.

• When cashing a check:

  • You are required to present photo identification.

• Safer than checks or bearers because:

  • No one else can legally exchange a check on your behalf.

Why should you open a bank account?

• Open a payment account at a bank now:

  • Very easy

  • The initial cost is low , usually $50 or less.

• Long-term benefits:

  • Easy to deposit checks

  • Avoid high check exchange fees.

  • Reduce the risk of carrying cash.

• Even if you don't use it often, a bank account is still a safe and economical option.

Be cautious with checks dated before or after the actual date.

• Checks dated in the future (post-dated) or on an unusual date:

  • This could be a sign of fraud.

• Many banks:

  • Refusal to process

  • Or require more complex verification.

• Only accept if you:

  • Understand the origin of the check.

  • Trust the check writer.

Be wary of bank checks and cashier's checks.

• Cashier's checks/bank checks look very trustworthy , but:

  • It can still be counterfeited.

• If the check is fake:

  • The bank will recover the amount already paid.

  • You have to repay the bank.

• So:

  • Don't rush to withdraw money before the check is fully verified.

  • You should verify directly with the bank that issued the check.

Practical recommendations

• Always:

  • Check the type of check

  • Understand who has the authority to exchange checks.

• For large checks or from unfamiliar sources:

  • Priority is given to deposits of checks into the account.

  • Alternatively, you can exchange it directly at the issuing bank.

References

1. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/deposit-cash-atm
2. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/
   if-i-deposit-a-check-into-an-atm-are-the-funds-available-right-away-en-1087/
3. https://www.law.cornell.edu/ucc/3/3-110
4. https://training.hr.ufl.edu/instructionguides/
   deposits_implementation/making_atm_deposits_ig.pdf
5. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/
   how-to-make-mobile-check-deposits
6. https://www.usnews.com/banking/articles/
   how-to-cash-a-check-without-a-bank-account
7. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/
   can-i-cash-a-check-at-any-bank-or-credit-union-en-931/
8. https://www.usnews.com/banking/articles/
   how-to-cash-a-check-without-a-bank-account
9. https://www.dealnews.com/features/walmart/cash-checks/
10. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/
    prepaid-cards/understand-fees/
11. https://usa.visa.com/pay-with-visa/find-card/get-prepaid-card
12. https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/
    can-you-cash-check-without-bank-account-id-155116813.html
13. https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/
    how-to-cash-a-check-without-a-bank-account/
14. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/how-to-write-a-check
15. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/
    i-received-a-check-that-someone-forgot-to-sign-can-i-still-cash-it-en-943/
16. https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/
    how-to-cash-a-check-without-a-bank-account/

Translated by: Rowan Hudson Le .