How to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account

Cashing a check is normally a simple process involving the check, you, and your bank. But when you are missing the third ingredient things can get a little tricky. If you, for one reason or another, do not have a checking account or any type of bank account, there are still options available to getting your money.

Instructions

1. Gather your supplies together, if you have two picture ID's it would be advantageous. In order to cash a check with no bank account, people want to make sure you are who you say you are. Some possible accepted ID cards include military ID, driver's license, credit card with a photo, or a passport. Some banks or check cashing places may even want to see a valid credit card, they will want a way to track you down if anything fishy arises.

2. Look at the check you have in hand, what bank is it written from? If there is a local branch available then you are in luck. You can simply go to the nearest branch and they should have no problem cashing it for you. They will be able to verify the legitimacy of the signature and availability of the funds on the spot. If the bank looks unfamiliar trying doing a search for it on the internet. If there are no local branches of the bank you have a few options:

3. Call the bank the check is written from and ask two questions. Do they have any local affiliate banks at which you will be able to cash the check with no problems? Cashing a check without a bank account is still possible even if they have no affiliate banks near you. If the answer is no, ask them if they will be able to verify funds for a check cashing service if you take the check there. The answers to these two questions should give you a good head start on what to do next. If they have a local affiliate bank go there, if not, head to your nearest check cashing service center.

4. Do an internet search or look in your Yellow Pages for local check cashing centers. They may charge a nominal fee and require a contract, but getting your money in your hands without needing your own bank account may well be worth it.

Tips & Warnings

• Always remain polite and courteous to employees even if they tell you they are unable to cash your check, they are only ensuring the safety of you and the writer of the check.

• You may find working with a particular bank a positive experience, it might be a good sign that you are ready to open your own bank account - if so, express an interest and they may be able to cash your check for you if you agree to keeping the funds on deposit for a few days.

• Never sign any contract that you do not fully understand.