by Alexandria D.
Receiving a check can be an exciting experience, but it’s only the first step to accessing that money. To get those funds, you’ll need to cash or deposit the check.
Don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as you may think. Let’s break down where you can cash a check, what types of checks are available, and how long you have to cash a check after receiving it.
Where Can I Cash My Check?
There are multiple check-cashing options available, depending on what’s convenient for you.
Check Cashing Stores
Visiting a check-cashing store, like ACE Cash Express, is an easy way to cash almost any type of check.1 Enjoy the flexibility of longer service hours and Saturday availability. If you visit an ACE store to cash your check, check-cashing fees are prominently displayed on the fee boards and ACE associates are available to help you through the process.
Local Banks or Credit Unions
A common place to cash a check is at a local bank or credit union, but they may require you to have an account with their establishment. Some banks will cash a check without fees if it was issued by them, and they can also verify if the check is legitimate and there are sufficient funds to pay it. However, this may vary by bank or state. You can use the bank or credit union teller services or they may have ATMs available for depositing checks.
Grocery Stores
Many grocery stores may also offer check-cashing services for customers. Depending on the store, these services are typically provided for a fee that varies with the amount on your check. Check-cashing services may only be available during certain hours within the grocery store’s operating hours.
Mobile Deposit
Some banking apps offer a mobile check deposit option, which allows you to deposit funds from your check directly into your account. Mobile check deposits may be limited by the amount you are allowed to deposit as well as when you can access those funds.
What Types of Checks Are There?
Whether you go to a check cashing store, bank, credit union, grocery store, or try mobile deposit, it’s important to know which places will cash what kinds of checks. There are multiple types of checks, including:
- Payroll checks: also known as paychecks, given to you by your employer’s payroll division
- Personal checks: bank checks tied to someone else’s personal bank account
- Business checks: bank checks tied to a business bank account instead of a personal bank account
- Income tax refund checks: checks the IRS issues if you overpaid your taxes and you qualify for a refund
- Government checks: government-issued checks for services, which may include financial aid, unemployment benefits, or social security
- Insurance settlement checks: checks issued by insurance companies whenever you qualify for an insurance payout
- Money orders: prepaid paper forms of payment for a certain amount
How Long Do You Have to Cash a Check?
The time you have to cash a check depends on the type of check. Personal checks, business checks, and payroll checks are often good for up to six months. However, government checks and money orders usually expire according to your state’s laws. It’s important to inspect the check upon receipt to confirm how soon it should be cashed or deposited.
Cashing a Check at ACE Cash Express
ACE offers a convenient, straightforward process that lets you cash checks and receive funds the same day.1
How Do I Cash a Check at ACE?
ACE store associates will guide you through the process to verify and cash your check. No bank account or credit check is required to cash a check with ACE, and you walk out with cash in hand.1
What Checks Can I Cash at ACE?
ACE cashes most check types, including:
- Payroll checks
- Personal checks
- Business checks
- Income tax refund checks
- Government checks
- Insurance settlement checks
- Money orders
Other checks, such as ones made payable to your business, require additional documentation. These requirements vary by state and business entity type (DBA, corporation, LLC, etc.). Call or visit a local ACE store for a complete list of requirements.
Why Choose ACE for Check Cashing Services?
There are many reasons to choose ACE for your check cashing services. There are no account requirements to cash a check at ACE. If you are new or unfamiliar with check cashing, ACE associates are helpful and will walk you through the process. ACE makes check cashing more convenient with longer weekday service hours and Saturday hours.
ACE Check Cashing FAQs
How much does it cost to cash my check?
Each of our locations has a fee board listing check cashing fees for different check types. Because these rates vary by state and may change, it’s best to visit a store near you to ask about check cashing fees.
Are there any limits on the check amount I can cash?
ACE does cash checks in large amounts. If you have a question about your particular check, it’s best to visit your local ACE store and talk to one of our associates. You can find the ACE location nearest you by using our store locator.
What if my check is from another state?
ACE accepts checks from all states.1
Can I put the money from a cashed check on a debit card at ACE?
Yes, as a separate transaction. After you cash your check, one of our associates will assist you with the transaction using your debit card. ACE also offers a debit card product that may help meet your financial needs. While in-store, you also have access to money orders, money transfers, and bill payment services.2
This blog is not intended to provide any tax, legal, financial planning, insurance, accounting, investment, or any other kind of professional advice or services. To make sure that any information or suggestions in this blog fit your particular circumstances, you should consult with an appropriate tax or legal professional before taking action based on any suggestions or information that we provide.
Sources:
Egan, John. “How Long Are Checks Good For?” Blog, Ask Experian, Experian, 31 May, 2025, https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-long-are-checks-good-for/
Gerson, Emily Starbuck. “What Is Mobile Deposit and How Does It Work?” Blog, Ask Experian, Experian, 3 Dec. 2024, https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-is-mobile-deposit/
Luthi, Ben. “Check Cashing: Are the Fees Worth it?” Blog, Ask Experian, Experian, 17 Jan, 2019, https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/check-cashing-are-the-fees-worth-it/
Disclaimers:
1. Terms and conditions apply. Digital copy of identification may not be accepted. All checks are subject to approval.
2. Check cashing and other money services fees vary by type, amount, and location. Visit an ACE Cash Express store near you for details.
