Where to Find an ATM After Cashing a Check
If you’ve just cashed a check, your next step might be to get that money into your hands or into your account quickly. Knowing where to find an ATM after cashing a check can save you time, reduce fees, and help you avoid unsafe situations carrying large amounts of cash.
Whether you’re depositing funds, breaking down bills into smaller amounts, or simply withdrawing what you need for the week, having an ATM plan in mind can make the whole process smoother.
Why You Might Need an ATM After Check Cashing
Even if you walk out of a check cashing location with cash in hand, an ATM can be useful. You might want to:
- Deposit part of the money into your bank account without waiting in line at the teller.
- Withdraw smaller bills for easier everyday spending.
- Move funds to a prepaid debit card for online or card-only purchases.
- Avoid carrying a large amount of cash for safety reasons.
If you’ve used a mobile check deposit service like Cash App or PayPal, an ATM is also the fastest way to withdraw your funds in cash.
Common Places to Find ATMs Nearby
ATMs are more available than ever, but some spots are more convenient after check cashing:
- Inside or outside grocery stores – Many stores that cash checks, like Walmart or Publix, also have ATMs on-site.
- Banks and credit unions – If you have an account, your bank’s ATM is usually the cheapest option. See our credit union check cashing guide.
- Gas stations and convenience stores – While convenient, check for fees before withdrawing.
- Retail stores – Chains like CVS or Walgreens often have in-store ATMs.
- Transit hubs – Bus and train stations often have ATMs, though fees may be higher.
How to Find an ATM in Seconds
The quickest way to find an ATM that’s open and available is to use a locator tool. Our partner site provides a full directory of ATMs near you with details like hours, accessibility, and fees. You can even search by brand, fee policy, or whether the machine dispenses smaller bills.
ATM Fee Comparison After Check Cashing
ATM fees can eat into your funds quickly. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:
| ATM Location Type | Typical Fee Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Your own bank/credit union | $0 | Best for account holders |
| Partner network ATM | $0–$1.50 | Often free for partner accounts |
| Grocery store ATM | $1.50–$3.00 | Convenient after check cashing |
| Gas station/convenience store ATM | $2.50–$4.00 | Often highest fees |
| Airport or event ATM | $3.00–$6.00+ | Avoid if possible |
ATMs That Dispense Small Bills
Not all ATMs give out $20 bills only. Some machines dispense $10 bills or even $5 bills, which can be handy if you need change. You can find these using:
Using Cardless ATMs
If you’ve deposited your check into a mobile wallet, you may be able to skip your debit card altogether. Cardless ATMs let you withdraw using your phone, app, or a code. This is especially useful for:
- Cash App users
- Apple Pay or Google Pay users
- Customers without their physical debit card on hand
Learn more about cardless ATMs and how they work.
Best Time to Visit ATMs
While ATMs are generally available 24/7, certain times of day are better for safety and availability:
- Morning or early afternoon – Usually less crowded and safer.
- Avoid late night withdrawals – Especially in isolated or low-traffic areas.
- Avoid peak times – Payday evenings or weekends can mean longer waits and empty cash cassettes.
Planning Ahead Before Cashing Your Check
You can make your day smoother by choosing a check cashing location that already has an ATM on-site. Examples:
- Cash a check at Walmart and withdraw at their MoneyCenter ATM.
- Use Publix for both check cashing and ATM withdrawals.
- Visit a credit union branch to cash checks and use their ATMs for free.
If you’re visiting a smaller check cashing store, call ahead to confirm if there’s an ATM nearby and what bills it dispenses.
Tips for Safe and Smart ATM Use
- Choose well-lit, public locations
- Cover your PIN during entry
- Check for card skimmers before inserting your card
- If withdrawing large sums, consider multiple smaller transactions in different locations
- Keep your cash secure before leaving the area
Final Thoughts
Finding an ATM after cashing a check doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, you can access your cash quickly, safely, and without paying unnecessary fees. Whether you need smaller bills, a cardless withdrawal option, or simply the closest fee-free machine, the right preparation ensures your money gets where it needs to go with less hassle.
