You can cash your tax refund check at several types of locations, depending on whether you have a bank account and your preference for convenience or fees:
Places to Cash a Tax Refund Check
- Banks or Credit Unions :
If you have an account, banks and credit unions are usually the best place to cash your tax refund check for free. Even if you don’t have an account, some banks will cash federal tax refund checks since they are government-backed, though fees may apply
- ATMs :
If you have a bank account, you can deposit your tax refund check via ATM and then withdraw the cash. However, you must first deposit the check, and access to funds may take a couple of business days depending on your bank
- Check Cashing Services :
These services provide immediate cash without needing a bank account but charge fees based on the check amount. You usually need valid ID and may have to create an account with the service for future use
- Large Retail Stores and Grocery Stores :
Some retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Publix cash tax refund checks. Walmart, for example, cashes checks up to $7,500 with fees ranging from $4 to $8 depending on the check amount. Identification is required, and availability may vary by location
- Prepaid or Debit Cards :
If your refund is loaded onto a prepaid card, you can withdraw cash at locations like ACE Cash Express, which cashes tax refund debit cards and checks, often with extended hours and cash on hand for large amounts
Additional Notes
- Post Offices do not cash tax refund checks ; they only sell money orders
- To avoid fees, cashing your check at a bank where you have an account is best. If you don’t have an account, some banks still may cash your check for free if you provide proper identification
- Always bring valid government-issued photo ID when cashing your tax refund check
In summary, your best options are your own bank or credit union, large retailers like Walmart, or check cashing services if you lack a bank account. Fees and limits vary, so it’s good to check locally before going
