Cashing a check is only the first step. Once you walk out of a store, bank, or check-cashing location, the next challenge for many people is getting cash safely, cheaply, and without running into unexpected ATM fees. Whether you use a mobile check deposit app, a grocery store service, or a dedicated check-cashing center, knowing the fastest and most affordable ways to access your money can make a big difference.
1. Use Fee-Friendly ATMs After Cashing Your Check
If you’ve cashed a check onto a prepaid card, mobile wallet, or basic checking account, you’ll likely need to find an ATM next. ATM fees vary widely depending on network, location, and bank policies. Resources like ATMs-NearMe — https://atms-nearme.com/ — can help you compare ATM options, understand withdrawal limits, and find machines that offer features like small-bill withdrawals.
If you’re new to depositing checks digitally, our guide on depositing checks on Cash App walks you step-by-step through the process, including how long it takes before you can withdraw funds at an ATM.
2. Grocery Stores Often Provide Faster Access Than ATMs
Many grocery stores offer cash back with a debit purchase, which can be cheaper than using an out-of-network ATM. You can often get $20–$100 back depending on store policy. This can be especially helpful if you’ve just cashed a check onto a prepaid card or digital wallet and want to avoid ATM surcharges altogether.
For more details on store-based check-cashing policies, see our guide on supermarket check-cashing policies.
3. Understand Withdrawal Limits Before You Need Cash
Even after cashing a check, your bank or prepaid card provider may restrict how much you can withdraw in a single day. These limits help prevent fraud, but they can surprise customers who expect full access to their funds immediately. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides helpful information on how withdrawal limits and electronic fund access rules work here: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/
If you run into problems withdrawing money after a mobile check deposit, our guide to troubleshooting mobile check deposits covers common hold times, app delays, and ID verification issues.
4. Small Bills vs. Large Bills: What To Expect at ATMs
Some ATMs only dispense $20s, while others offer $10s or even $5s depending on the machine’s configuration. If you need small bills after cashing a check, choosing the right ATM matters. Many customers overlook this until they’re standing at the machine.
If you want to understand why some ATMs offer more withdrawal options than others, read our breakdown of how to find the right ATM after cashing a check.
5. Keep a Small Cash Buffer for Emergencies
If you rely on check cashing regularly, it helps to keep a small emergency buffer ($20–$50) at home. This prevents you from being forced into high-fee ATM withdrawals late at night or during weekends when banks have reduced service hours.
Final Thoughts
Getting access to cash after cashing a check doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you use ATMs, retailer cash back, mobile deposits, or prepaid cards, the key is knowing your options and understanding the fees involved. With a little planning, you can keep more of your money and avoid the most common cash-access pitfalls.
