You can cash a Citibank check at a Citibank branch, at most other banks and credit unions, at check-cashing stores, and at some grocery stores and pharmacies
The fastest option is usually a Citibank branch, where you can cash a Citibank check the same day without an account. If you don't have a branch nearby, most banks and credit unions will cash it for you — though some charge a fee if you're not a customer. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and dedicated check-cashing businesses also accept Citibank checks, but fees tend to be higher and daily limits may explore.
The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money, whether you want to avoid fees, and what's convenient near you. Each option has different requirements and trade-offs.
Key Takeaways
- Citibank branches cash Citibank checks for free on the same day, even if you don't have an account with them.
- Banks and credit unions outside Citibank may charge a fee (typically $5 to $15) to cash a check drawn on another bank if you're not a customer.
- Grocery stores, pharmacies, and check-cashing stores accept Citibank checks but often charge higher fees and may limit the amount you can cash per day.
- You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID to cash a check at any location.
- Mobile deposit through a banking app is free and faster than in-person cashing if you have a bank account.
Cashing at a Citibank branch
A Citibank branch is the simplest place to cash a Citibank check. You don't need an account, and there's no fee. Walk in during business hours with your check and a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The teller will verify the check and give you cash the same day.
Citibank branches are open Monday through Friday, and many locations have Saturday hours. You can find the nearest branch and its hours on Citibank's website or by calling 1-800-CITIBANK. If you're cashing a large check, call ahead to make sure the branch has enough cash on hand.
Cashing at other banks and credit unions
Most banks and credit unions will cash a Citibank check, but the terms depend on whether you have an account with them. If you're a customer, many banks cash checks drawn on other banks for free. If you're not a customer, expect a fee — typically $5 to $15, though some banks charge more for large checks.
Call ahead before you go. Ask the bank's customer service line whether they cash third-party checks, what the fee is, and whether you need an account. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks, especially if you're a member of a credit union network like CO-OP or Allpoint. Bring your photo ID and the check itself.
Check-cashing stores and retail locations
Check-cashing businesses, grocery stores, and pharmacies offer convenience if you can't reach a bank branch, but fees are usually higher. Check-cashing stores typically charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount — so a $500 check might cost $5 to $15 to cash. Grocery stores and pharmacies often charge a flat fee of $3 to $10.
These locations also impose daily limits, often $500 to $1,000 per day. You'll need a photo ID and sometimes a secondary form of ID. Hours are usually longer than banks, including evenings and weekends, which can be useful if you need cash outside normal business hours.
Mobile deposit if you have a bank account
If you have a bank account with any bank or credit union, mobile deposit is the fastest and cheapest way to handle a Citibank check. read your bank's mobile app, take a photo of the front and back of the check, and submit it. The funds typically appear in your account within one to two business days, and there's no fee.
You won't get cash when ready, but you can withdraw it from an ATM or branch once the deposit clears. This method works even if your bank isn't Citibank. If you need cash the same day, this won't work — you'll need to use one of the in-person options above.
What you need to bring and common mistakes to avoid
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID to any location where you cash a check. A driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID all work. Some check-cashing stores ask for a second form of ID, such as a utility bill or bank statement with your name and address.
Make sure the check is made out to you — if it's made out to someone else, you generally cannot cash it. Endorse the back of the check by signing your name on the line marked "Endorse here" or similar. Don't sign it until you're at the location where you're cashing it. If the check is post-dated (dated in the future), most places won't cash it until that date arrives.
Comparing costs and speed across your options
| Location | Fee | Speed | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citibank branch | Free | Same day | Mon–Fri, some Sat |
| Other bank (non-customer) | $5–$15 | Same day | Mon–Fri, some Sat |
| Credit union (non-member) | $5–$10 | Same day | Mon–Fri, some Sat |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of amount | Same day | Extended hours, weekends |
| Grocery or pharmacy | $3–$10 | Same day | Extended hours, weekends |
| Mobile deposit | Free | 1–2 business days | Anytime |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a Citibank check at an ATM?
No. ATMs accept deposits but do not dispense cash for checks. You must go to a branch, bank, credit union, or check-cashing location to receive cash for a Citibank check.
What if the check is torn or damaged?
Most locations will still cash a torn check as long as the amount, date, and account number are legible and the signature is intact. If it's severely damaged, contact the person or business that issued the check and ask for a replacement.
Can I cash a check made out to someone else?
Generally, no. A check must be cashed by the person whose name appears on the "Pay to the order of" line. If someone wants to give you their check, they would need to endorse it to you, but most banks and check-cashing locations do not accept third-party endorsed checks.
Do I need an account to cash a Citibank check at Citibank?
No. Citibank cashes checks drawn on Citibank accounts for anyone with a valid photo ID, whether or not they have an account. This is one of the main advantages of going to a Citibank branch.
What's the difference between cashing and depositing a check?
Cashing means you receive the full amount in cash when ready. Depositing means the money goes into a bank account and you can withdraw it later. Depositing is usually free and faster for large amounts, while cashing is useful if you need physical cash right away.