Can you walk into any bank and cash a check? The answer is sometimes. Many banks will cash a check even if you are not a customer—but only if the check was issued by that bank. Fees, ID rules, and limits vary widely, and some banks do not offer check-cashing services at all for non-customers.
This guide explains exactly where you can cash a check, how each major bank handles non-customer policies, the fees you should expect, and smart alternatives that may save you money. If you don’t have a bank account, see our companion guide: Where to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account.
Can You Cash a Check at Any Bank?
No—you usually cannot cash a check at just any bank. Banks typically only cash checks for non-customers when the check is drawn on their institution. This means the logo on the check must match the bank you are visiting.
If the check is written from another bank, most financial institutions will decline it and ask you to deposit it instead—an option only for customers.
What banks will do for non-customers
- Cash checks drawn on their bank (most major banks)
- Charge a non-customer fee
- Require government-issued ID
- Place a limit on check type or amount
What banks will not do for non-customers
- Cash checks from other banks
- Waive holds or provide instant funds
- Cash very large checks without additional review
What You Need to Cash a Check at Any Bank
Banks require the following from non-customers:
- Government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID
- Endorsed check (signed on the back)
- Fingerprint or signature verification (required at some banks)
- Fee payment (varies by bank)
If you don’t have ID, you’ll need alternative options. See our guide: Alternative Check Cashing Methods.
Bank-by-Bank Guide: Will They Cash Checks for Non-Customers?
Here is the most complete breakdown available online (far more detailed than Business Insider’s version). Fees may vary by branch, but these are standard corporate policies:
| Bank | Cash for Non-Customers? | Fee | Limits / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank of America | Yes (only BOA checks) | $8 for checks over $50 | Government ID required |
| Chase | Yes (only Chase checks) | Varies; often $8 | Fingerprint may be required |
| Wells Fargo | Yes (only WF checks) | $7.50 | No fee for checks $25 or less |
| Citi | Yes | Around $7 | Must be drawn on a Citi account |
| Capital One | Yes | Varies by state | Check must be drawn on Capital One |
| Truist | Yes | $0 for checks under $50; $8 above | No fee in New Jersey |
| PNC | Yes | 2% of check amount over $25 | High fees compared to peers |
| KeyBank | Yes | Varies by state | Limit around $1,500 |
| Citizens Bank | Yes | About $7 | ID required |
| Regions | Yes | $0–$20 or 1.5%–4% | Fees depend on check type |
| TD Bank | Yes | Varies | Must be a TD-issued check |
For detailed guides on each bank, visit our full series:
- Does Bank of America Cash Checks?
- Does Chase Cash Checks?
- Does Truist Cash Checks?
- Does Regions Cash Checks?
- Does PNC Cash Checks?
- Does TD Bank Cash Checks?
Where Else Can You Cash a Check If the Bank Won’t Help?
Banks are not your only option. Many people choose retailers or apps because they’re open later and have faster processing.
1. Retail Stores & Supermarkets
- Walmart: Low fees; cashes payroll, government, and some two-party checks
- Kroger: Cashes payroll and government checks
- Publix: Does not cash personal checks; cashes payroll/government
See our guide: Does Walmart Cash Personal Checks?
2. Mobile Apps
- Ingo Money (cashes third-party checks)
- Cash App (select accounts)
- PayPal (photo deposit)
See our full guide: Where to Cash a Third-Party Check With Mobile Apps
3. Check-Cashing Stores
These charge the highest fees and should be used as a last resort. Many charge 3%–10% of the check amount.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA-Optimized)
Can I cash a check at a bank that is not mine?
Only if the check is issued by that bank. Otherwise, you must deposit it into an account.
Why do banks charge fees to non-customers?
Because they are providing a service to someone who does not contribute to their business. Fees help cover verification and fraud-prevention costs.
Can I cash a third-party (double-endorsed) check at a bank?
Most banks won’t. Use mobile apps or check-cashing stores instead. See our guide: Where to Cash a Third-Party Check.
What banks are best for non-customer check cashing?
Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Capital One have predictable policies and moderate fees.