Check cashing fees can vary widely depending on where you cash a check, the type of check you have, and how quickly you need access to your money. Understanding how these fees work can help you avoid unnecessary costs and choose the most affordable option.
What Are Check Cashing Fees?
Check cashing fees are charges applied by banks, retailers, mobile apps, or check cashing services when they convert a paper check into cash or deposited funds. Fees may be flat-rate, percentage-based, or dependent on check type and amount.
Common Types of Check Cashing Fees
Most check cashing fees fall into one of the following categories:
- Flat fees — A fixed dollar amount (for example, $3 or $5 per check).
- Percentage fees — A percentage of the check amount (commonly 1%–5%).
- Expedited fees — Extra charges for instant or same-day access to funds.
- Non-customer fees — Fees charged by banks if you don’t have an account with them.
Check Cashing Fees by Location Type
Banks and Credit Unions
Banks typically offer the lowest fees — or no fees at all — for account holders. Non-customers may be charged a flat fee or a percentage of the check.
- Account holders: Often free
- Non-customers: Commonly $5–$10 or a small percentage
Retailers and Grocery Stores
Many retailers cash payroll and government checks for a low flat fee. Limits and fees vary by chain.
- Typical fees: $1–$6 per check
- Limits often range from $300–$1,000
Examples include Walmart check cashing, Kroger check cashing, and Publix check cashing.
Check Cashing Stores
Dedicated check cashing locations provide fast access to funds but often charge higher fees.
- Fees typically range from 1%–5% of the check amount
- Higher fees for personal or third-party checks
Learn more in our guides to ACE Cash Express and PLS check cashing.
Mobile Check Cashing Apps
Mobile apps often offer free standard deposits with optional instant funding for a fee.
- Standard deposit: Often free (1–3 business days)
- Instant access: Usually 1%–5% of the check amount
See our guide to mobile check cashing apps for a detailed breakdown.
Fees by Check Type
- Payroll checks — Usually lowest fees
- Government checks — Often discounted or free at some locations
- Personal checks — Higher fees and stricter limits
- Third-party checks — Commonly declined or heavily fee-based
For a full breakdown, see check cashing for different types of checks.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Minimum fee thresholds on small checks
- ATM withdrawal fees after cashing a check
- Reload or transfer fees on prepaid cards
- Currency conversion fees for foreign checks
If you are dealing with international items, review foreign check cashing options.
How to Reduce or Avoid Check Cashing Fees
- Cash checks at your own bank whenever possible
- Use grocery stores with flat fees instead of percentage-based services
- Choose free mobile deposits if time allows
- Avoid third-party checks when possible
For step-by-step strategies, see how to avoid check cashing fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do check cashing fees vary so much?
Fees vary based on risk, processing speed, and whether the provider has a relationship with the check issuer or customer.
Are check cashing fees regulated?
Some states regulate maximum fees, while others allow providers to set their own rates. See state check cashing laws for details.
Bottom Line
Check cashing fees depend on where you go, how fast you need your money, and what type of check you have. Comparing fees ahead of time and choosing low-cost options like banks, retailers, or free mobile deposits can save you a significant amount over time.