For millions of Americans who are unbanked or underbanked, accessing financial services can be a challenge. These individuals often rely on alternative financial services like check-cashing services to access their funds. If you find yourself needing to cash a check and wondering, “Can You Cash A Check At Food Lion?”, this article will explore your options and help you find the most convenient and cost-effective solutions.
A Food Lion storefront, offering various grocery and retail services.
Where to Cash Checks Without a Bank Account
If you don’t have a traditional bank account, you might think your options are limited. However, there are several reputable places where you can cash checks, avoiding high fees and potential scams. These include:
- Reputable check-cashing stores
- Department and grocery stores
- Convenience stores
- Banks and credit unions (even without an account)
- Digital payment platforms like PayPal
Keep in mind that check-cashing policies can vary significantly between retailers. Personal checks often have more restrictions than payroll or government checks. It’s always a good idea to call the location beforehand to confirm their policies and required identification.
Big-Box Stores Like Walmart and Kmart
Large retailers such as Walmart and Kmart are popular choices for cashing checks. They typically offer these services through their customer service departments or in-store money service centers, often branded with Western Union.
Many big-box stores also host in-store bank branches, each with its own policies and fee structures. Cashing limits can vary, with some allowing larger checks (up to $5,000) while others have lower caps.
Can You Cash a Check at Your Local Supermarket?
Many supermarket and grocery store chains offer check-cashing services. While a comprehensive list is impossible, here are a few examples:
- Kroger
- Albertsons
- Safeway
Check-cashing policies and fees can change, so it’s wise to check with your preferred retailer for the latest information. Some supermarkets may not advertise check-cashing services online, so calling ahead is your best bet. The reason for this is that check cashing is not very profitable, and the management does not want to imply that stores have lots of cash on hand.
A woman cashing a check at a grocery store customer service counter.
What About Convenience Stores?
Many convenience stores offer check-cashing services. Popular brands include:
- 7-Eleven
- Circle K
Similar to supermarkets, not all convenience stores advertise these services online. Calling ahead to confirm is always recommended.
Cashing Checks at Banks and Credit Unions
Most FDIC-insured banks and NCUA-insured credit unions cash payroll, government, and financial institution checks for both customers and non-customers. However, personal check-cashing policies tend to be more restrictive.
Non-customers should expect to pay fees, which can sometimes be comparable to or even higher than those charged by non-bank check-cashing providers.
A 2017 analysis by the Los Angeles Times found that Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo charged around $8 for non-customer checks, although they often waived the fee for payroll checks. Citibank was an exception, not charging non-customers for check cashing.
Banks and credit unions are less likely to charge fees for checks they themselves issue. If your employer banks with a local institution, check with the nearest branch to see if they will cash your payroll check without a fee.
PayPal’s Cash a Check Service
PayPal offers a convenient remote check-cashing service called Cash a Check. Using the PayPal mobile app, you can take a photo of the check and submit it for verification. You can then choose to expedite the funds to your PayPal Cash Plus account for a fee or wait 10 days for free access.
Refer to PayPal’s guide to the Cash a Check service for detailed instructions and FAQs.
Avoid Check-Cashing Fees by Opening a Free Bank Account
Most non-bank check-cashing services charge fees. Banks and credit unions usually cash checks for free for their account holders. To avoid these fees, consider opening a checking account with a reputable institution.
A man using a mobile banking app to deposit a check.
Tips for Choosing a Bank Account
To minimize costs and maximize convenience, consider the following:
- Look for Truly Free Checking Accounts: Many accounts waive fees if you meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance. Look for accounts with no such requirements.
- Choose an Institution With Local Branches or ATMs: If you prefer in-person banking, choose a bank or credit union with convenient locations.
- Consider Mobile Check Deposit: If you prefer online banking, choose an institution with a user-friendly mobile app and mobile check deposit capabilities.
- Open a High-Yield Savings Account: Pair your checking account with a high-yield savings account to earn interest on your savings.
Final Thoughts
While the world is moving towards a cashless future, paper checks are still prevalent. Many businesses, government agencies, and individuals still rely on them. Until this changes, affordable and reliable check-cashing services remain essential for those without traditional bank accounts. So, while “can you cash a check at Food Lion” might not always be the answer, you now have a comprehensive list of alternatives to explore.
