Where To Cash a Tax Refund Check

You can cash a tax refund check at a bank, credit union, retailer like Walmart, check-cashing store or by depositing it through a mobile banking app. It’s usually fastest and cheapest to cash your check at the issuing bank listed on the check. If that’s not possible, there are several other ways to cash your check, though some options require a bank account, and fees vary. Let’s see your options.

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Do I Need a Bank Account To Cash My Tax Refund Check?

No, you don’t need a bank account – but it’s usually the cheapest option. Cashing a check allows you to immediately access the cash. You don’t need a bank account to cash a check, but you’ll usually pay a fee.

If you do have a bank account, you can deposit the check into the account. Depositing a check is typically free at your bank, and you can access the cash in one or two days once the check has cleared.

Consider choosing direct deposit for future refunds, which saves you the hassle of cashing a refund check and can help you get your money faster.

What You Need To Cash a Tax Refund Check

You will need an ID to receive your funds. If this requirement didn’t exist, anyone could walk around with your tax refund check and claim to be you.

Several documents count as valid IDs, such as an unexpired state-issued photo driver’s license or identification card, an unexpired passport, or a permanent resident card. Your IRS check must match the name on your ID. Some retailers may require a Social Security number or thumbprint when you cash your check as an extra level of verification.

To cash your check:

• Bring a valid ID, like an unexpired state-issued photo driver’s license.

• Make sure your check matches the name on your ID.

• Be prepared to share your Social Security number or to provide a thumbprint.

Where To Cash a Tax Refund Check

The cheapest option is usually your bank. If you don’t have one, retailers and check-cashing stores are alternatives — but they charge fees.

Your Bank or Credit Union

Banks are one of your best bets for cashing tax refund checks, especially if you’re an account holder. Most banks won’t charge their customers fees for this service.

Banks and credit unions set their own policies around cashing checks for non-customers and may charge a fee if you're not an account holder.

On the flip side, they might be willing to cash your federal tax refund, though each bank's policy will vary and isn't guaranteed,

Cash Your Tax Refund Check With Mobile Deposit

You'll likely be able to deposit your tax refund check with the bank's mobile banking app, if you are a customer.

After you log into the app, follow the mobile deposit instructions. The usual protocol includes these steps:

• Endorsing the check

• Taking a picture of both sides

• Confirming the deposit amount

Mobile deposits can save you a trip to a bank branch, but many banks have daily mobile deposit limits. It's best to check with your bank to be certain.

If your refund is larger than your bank’s limit, you'll need to deposit it in person. Most banks hold mobile deposits for at least one to two days, but your bank might hold a larger check for up to five business days, though the exact time frame will depend on your bank.

Retail Stores That Cash Tax Refund Checks

Some grocery stores and large retailers like Walmart will cash tax refund checks, but you may have to pay a fee. To cash a check at these stores, you may need to sign up for a free account and present valid identification.

Walmart cashes most pre-printed checks, including your federal tax refund checks. You can:

• Cash checks of up to $7,500 between January and April.

• Cash check of up to $5,000 during the remaining months of the year.

• Cash your check without having a bank account.

Walmart’s fee depends on your check’s face value. You can expect a $4 fee for checks up to $1,000 and an $8 fee for checks up to $5,000.

Check cashing policies vary depending on the type of store you’re at, plus they vary from branch to branch. Check with your local store for updated cash checking policies.

Check-Cashing Stores

Check cashing services can give you fast access to cash, even if you don’t have a bank account. Some stores require you to set up an account with them for tax refund check cashing, and they all require a valid identification document.

While convenient, check-cashing stores come at a higher cost. These stores typically charge fees based on a percentage of the check. This can become expensive, especially if you receive a large refund from the IRS. You can keep more of your money if you cash the check elsewhere.

Prepaid Debit Cards

Instead of cashing your tax refund, you can choose to store the funds directly onto a prepaid debit card. According to the IRS, if your debit card has an account and routing number, you can provide those numbers to the IRS and have your tax refund deposited directly onto the prepaid debit card.

Your card’s account number may be different than the card number, so contact your financial institution to verify the information.

Some mobile apps also allow you to deposit your check onto your prepaid debit card.

For example, with 7-Eleven’s Transact Prepaid Mastercard, you can deposit your tax refund check through the app using your smartphone’s camera. There are fees to be mindful of – you’ll pay a 1.5% fee for government checks with the Transact Prepaid Mastercard if you want the funds immediately.

Likewise, if you are an account holder with a bank or credit union, you may be able to access your funds immediately through your debit card. 

For banking accounts that help you manage your money and cash your tax refund at fee-free ATMs, check out our network of providers: 

Choosing the Best Way To Cash Your Tax Refund Check

Your bank or credit union is usually the cheapest option for cashing your tax refund check.

Alternative options, like retailers and check-cashing stores, may charge fees. Not every location that offers money services cashes checks, including the U.S. Postal Service, so you may want to call around to confirm policies before choosing the best place to cash your check.

If you have a bank account, consider choosing direct deposit to avoid additional fees and delays on your tax refund.

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FAQs

Can I cash a tax refund check without ID?

Most banks, large retailers and check-cashing stores require ID to cash a tax refund check. You may not need ID if you deposit the check using your existing mobile banking app account.

Can I cash my tax refund check at the post office?

No — post offices don’t offer check cashing services. While you can buy money orders there, you’ll need to visit a bank, retailer, or check-cashing service to cash your tax refund checks.

Can I sign my refund check over to someone else?

You can sign your refund check over to someone else, but banks may require you and the recipient to both be present to cash the check.

How long is a tax refund check valid?

Your tax refund check is valid for one year from the date it was issued. If you haven’t cashed the check within a year, you will need the IRS to reissue you a check.

Is direct deposit better than a paper check?

Choosing direct deposit can speed up the process of receiving your tax refund, and you won’t have to pay the fees that certain check cashing methods require.

Marc Guberti contributed to the reporting for this article.