You can cash your tax refund check at several types of locations:
- Your bank or credit union: If you have an account, most banks and credit unions will cash your federal tax refund check for free. Some may also cash it for non-customers but might charge a fee
- ATMs: You can deposit your tax refund check via an ATM if you have a bank account, then withdraw the cash. However, you usually need to wait for the check to clear before withdrawing
- Check cashing services: These services are convenient if you don’t have a bank account but typically charge fees based on a percentage of the check amount
- Large retail stores: Major retailers like Walmart, Publix, and Kroger offer check cashing services. Walmart cashes tax refund checks up to $7,500 with fees ranging from $4 to $8 depending on the amount
- Prepaid or debit cards: Some prepaid card services allow you to deposit your tax refund check via an app and access funds through the card
Note that post offices do not cash tax refund checks
. To cash your tax refund check, bring the check and a valid photo ID. Fees and limits vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific place beforehand. In summary, your best and often cheapest option is your own bank or credit union. If you lack a bank account, check cashing stores or large retailers like Walmart are common alternatives, though they may charge fees