Cashing a check issued by a Canadian bank in the United States is possible, but it usually takes longer and costs more than cashing a U.S. check. This guide explains where you can cash Canadian checks, what fees to expect, how long processing takes, and the best alternatives if speed matters.
What Is a Canadian Check?
A Canadian check is issued by a bank located in Canada. It may be written in Canadian dollars or U.S. dollars, but it is still considered a foreign check by U.S. banks and check cashing services.
Because Canadian checks must be verified through international banking channels, they usually cannot be cashed instantly.
Can You Cash a Canadian Check in the U.S.?
Yes, Canadian checks can be cashed or deposited in the U.S., but options are limited. Most people must deposit the check into a bank or credit union account and wait for it to clear.
Retail stores and instant check cashing locations typically do not accept Canadian checks.
Where to Cash a Canadian Check in the U.S.
1. U.S. Banks
Most major U.S. banks can process Canadian checks for existing customers.
- Bank of America
- Chase
- Wells Fargo
- Citibank
The check is usually sent for international collection, which means funds are released only after the Canadian bank confirms payment.
2. Credit Unions
Some credit unions process Canadian checks for members. Policies vary widely, and many require longer hold periods than banks.
3. Foreign Check Collection Services
Specialized financial institutions and currency exchange services may accept Canadian checks, but fees are often high and processing is still slow.
For general foreign checks, see: Foreign Check Cashing Guide
How to Cash or Deposit a Canadian Check
- Endorse the back of the check exactly as your name appears
- Visit your bank or credit union branch
- Provide valid government-issued photo ID
- Deposit the check into your account (cash payouts are rare)
- Wait for the international clearing process to complete
Most institutions do not release funds until the check fully clears.
How Long Does a Canadian Check Take to Clear?
Canadian checks usually take:
- 7–14 business days in ideal cases
- Up to 30 days for international collection
During this time, funds may appear pending but are not guaranteed to be available.
Fees for Cashing Canadian Checks
Fees vary by institution but commonly include:
- Foreign check processing fee ($10–$50)
- Currency conversion fees (if not in USD)
- Collection or handling fees
Learn how to reduce costs here: How to Avoid Check Cashing Fees
Why Retailers and Apps Usually Don’t Accept Canadian Checks
Most grocery stores, mobile apps, and instant check cashing services only accept U.S.-issued checks. Canadian checks carry higher fraud risk and longer settlement times.
If you need faster access to funds, consider alternatives below.
Alternatives to Canadian Checks
- Wire transfer from the sender
- International ACH or EFT
- PayPal or cross-border payment services
Related: PayPal Mobile Check Deposit
Bottom Line
You can cash a Canadian check in the U.S., but it usually requires depositing it at a bank or credit union and waiting for international clearance. Fees and delays are common, so when possible, faster payment methods like wire transfers or digital payments are often a better option.
