Most ATMs Cannot Cash Checks Directly

The short answer is no — standard ATMs do not have the ability to cash checks. A typical ATM can only dispense cash, accept deposits, and show your balance. It cannot read a check, verify the amount, or give you cash in exchange for a paper check the way a bank teller can.

Some banks have introduced check-cashing ATMs at certain locations, but these are not common. Even when available, they work differently than a regular ATM and usually require you to have an account with that bank. If you need to cash a check, your best options are a bank branch, a check-cashing store, or depositing the check into your account and withdrawing cash separately.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard ATMs cannot cash checks — they can only dispense cash you already have on deposit.
  • A few banks offer specialized check-cashing ATMs, but availability is limited and usually requires an account at that bank.
  • The fastest way to get cash from a check is to visit a bank teller during business hours.
  • You can deposit a check at an ATM and then withdraw the cash, though the deposit may take one to two business days to clear.
  • Check-cashing stores and retailers like Walmart and Target offer same-day check cashing for a fee.

What a Check-Cashing ATM Actually Does

A check-cashing ATM is a specialized machine that some banks have installed to let customers cash checks without visiting a teller. These machines scan the check, read the amount, and dispense cash on the spot. However, they are not widely available — only certain banks in certain regions offer them, and they typically only work for customers with accounts at that bank.

Even if your bank has one, there are usually limits on the check amount you can cash. Some machines cap out at $500 or $1,000 per transaction. If your check is larger, you will still need to see a teller. Check-cashing ATMs also cannot process checks that are post-dated (dated in the future), checks made out to multiple people, or checks with damage or unclear printing.

Using a Bank Teller to Cash a Check

The most straightforward way to cash a check is to walk into your bank during business hours and hand it to a teller. You will need to bring the check and a valid photo ID. The teller will verify the check is signed, that the amount is legible, and that your account has enough funds to cover it (if it is your own check). They will then give you cash on the spot.

This process takes just a few minutes and works for checks of any amount. If you do not have an account at the bank that issued the check, you may still be able to cash it at the issuing bank's branch, though some banks charge a fee for non-customers. If the check is from a small credit union or a bank with limited branches, you may need to travel to find a location that can help you.

Depositing a Check and Withdrawing Cash

If you have a bank account, you can deposit a check at an ATM and then withdraw the cash separately. Most ATMs accept check deposits — you straightforward insert the check into the machine, and it scans and stores it. The bank then processes the deposit, which usually takes one to two business days.

Once the check clears, the money is available in your account, and you can withdraw it at any ATM. This method works well if you are not in a hurry, but it is slower than cashing the check directly. Some banks offer mobile check deposit through their banking app, which lets you photograph the check and deposit it from your phone — this is even faster than visiting an ATM, though the clearing time is the same.

Check-Cashing Stores and Retailers

If you do not have a bank account or cannot reach your bank, check-cashing stores will cash checks for a fee. These are standalone businesses found in most neighborhoods, and they cash checks on the same day. The fee is usually a percentage of the check amount — typically between 1 and 5 percent, depending on the check type and the store's rates.

Large retailers like Walmart, Target, and some grocery stores also offer check-cashing services at their customer service desk. Their fees are often lower than dedicated check-cashing stores, sometimes as low as $3 to $6 per check. You will need a valid photo ID and the check must be made out to you. These services are available during store hours, which are often longer than bank hours.

What Happens If the Check Bounces

If you cash a check and it later bounces — meaning the account it was drawn from does not have enough money — the responsibility depends on where you cashed it. If you cashed it at a bank, the bank absorbs the loss and will reverse the deposit from your account. If you cashed it at a check-cashing store or retailer, you may be responsible for returning the cash or paying a fee.

This is one reason banks prefer that you deposit checks rather than cash them — the bank can reverse a deposit if the check bounces, but once you have the cash in hand, it is harder to recover. If you are cashing a check from someone you do not know well, consider depositing it first and waiting for it to clear before spending the money.

Checks You Cannot Cash at an ATM or Store

Some checks cannot be cashed anywhere without special handling. Post-dated checks (dated in the future) cannot be cashed until that date arrives. Stale checks (more than six months old) may be refused by banks and check-cashing stores, though the issuer can still honor them if they choose. Checks made out to two people with "and" between the names usually require both people to be present and sign the back.

Damaged checks with missing information, checks with alterations, and checks that do not match your ID will be refused. If you have a check that falls into one of these categories, contact the person or business that issued it and ask them to issue a replacement check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check at an ATM if I do not have a bank account?

No, you cannot use an ATM to cash a check without an account. Your best option is a check-cashing store or a retailer like Walmart, which will cash checks for a fee and do not require an account. You will need a valid photo ID.

How long does it take for a check to clear if I deposit it at an ATM?

Most checks clear within one to two business days after you deposit them at an ATM. Some banks offer next-day clearing for certain checks, but this depends on the bank and the type of check. Weekend and holiday deposits may take longer.

What is the fee for cashing a check at a check-cashing store?

Fees vary by store and check type, but typically range from 1 to 5 percent of the check amount. Retailers like Walmart often charge a flat fee of $3 to $6 instead. Call ahead or ask at the counter to find out the exact fee before you cash the check.

Can I cash a check at a bank where I do not have an account?

You can try, but many banks charge a fee for non-customers to cash checks — sometimes $5 to $10 or more. The bank that issued the check is more likely to cash it without a fee. If the check is from a small credit union, you may need to visit that specific credit union to cash it.

What should I do if a check I cashed bounces?

Contact the person or business that issued the check when ready. If you cashed it at a bank, the bank will reverse the deposit from your account. If you cashed it at a check-cashing store, you may owe them the money back or face a fee. Ask the issuer to issue a replacement check or provide another form of payment.