Why Banks May Not Cash Your Check

• Most banks offer check cashing services, but if you are not an accountholder with the bank, you may find yourself getting turned away. Some banks still offer check cashing to non-accountholders, with stipulations. Many banks require that non-accountholders show identification before they will cash a check. If you are missing identification, you may be unable to cash your check. Also, if the check is for a large amount, some banks may be suspicious and refuse to cash it. If the refund check is made out to multiple people, like an estate refund, an endorsement from the estate administrator in addition to your signature may be required. If the bank continues to refuse to cash the estate check you may have to request a reissue of the check from the IRS with only your name on the check.
  
  

Alternative Check Cashing Places

• Standalone check cashing businesses are an alternative to banks. Use of these businesses is becoming common as banks keep reducing services to non-accountholders and raising the standards for opening an account. Check cashing businesses also offer other services such as payday loans, money transfers and money orders. It is important to note that cashing a check at these types of businesses usually involves a fee of some sort. Some charge a flat rate for check cashing, while others may charge a small percentage of the check.
  
  

Check Cashing at Stores

• Some retail stores offer in-store check cashing. Many grocery stores, for example, will cash your refund check at the customer service counter. They may have check-cashing limits, meaning you will not be able to cash large refund checks. Just like banks, you will have to present a form of identification -- sometimes even two forms -- if the check is sizable.
  
  

Considerations

• If you have an account at a bank that is not currently accessible to you, consider getting your refund check delivered electronically. The IRS can electronically deposit your refund into a bank account of your choosing. You can then use a debit card to access the funds from an ATM. Sometimes credit unions have easier standards for opening an account, so you may want to consider one of them if you do not have a bank account. Having a bank account will make check cashing much easier.