Walmart, one of America’s largest retail corporations, offers a variety of financial services, including check cashing. However, there are instances when customers might find that Walmart has declined to cash their check. This can be confusing and frustrating, especially if you’re not sure why it happened.
Walmart might not cash your check due to several reasons. These can include the check being of a type they don’t cash (like a handwritten personal check), insufficient funds in the linked bank account, the check exceeding the maximum acceptable amount, advice against cashing from a check verification company, inadequate identification, a previous history of cashing bad checks, suspicion of fraud, or incorrect information provided during the cashing process.
Understanding Walmart’s Check Cashing Policy
Before we dive into the reasons why Walmart might not cash your check, it’s crucial to understand their check cashing policy. Walmart typically cashes several types of checks, such as:
- Payroll checks
- Government checks
- Tax refund checks
- Cashiers’ checks
- Insurance settlement checks
- 401(k) and retirement disbursement checks
- Pre-printed checks
- Business checks
- Two-party personal checks (up to $200)
- Out-of-state checks
- MoneyGram money orders bought at Walmart.
However, Walmart does not cash handwritten or personal checks written to yourself. To cash a check at Walmart, you need to present the endorsed check and a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID card, to the customer service desk or the MoneyCenter at your local Walmart.
Reasons Walmart Might Not Cash Your Check
Despite their extensive check cashing services, there are several reasons why Walmart might not cash your check. These reasons include:
- Wrong check type: Not all checks are acceptable at Walmart. For instance, they do not cash handwritten personal checks.
- Insufficient bank funds: If there are insufficient funds in the bank account linked to the check, Walmart may decline to cash it.
- Check exceeds the maximum acceptable amount: The limit for most checks is $5,000, which increases to $7,500 during tax season (January to April). For two-party personal checks, the limit is $200.
- Check verification company advises against cashing: Walmart uses an electronic system that verifies checks. If the system or a check verification company advises against cashing due to a customer’s mixed credit history or other perceived risks, the check may be declined.
- Inadequate identification: You must present a valid government-issued photo ID when cashing a check at Walmart.
- Previous negative history: If you have a history of cashing bad checks at Walmart, they may refuse to cash your check.
- Fraud suspicion: If Walmart suspects any fraudulent activity, they may decline to cash the check.
- Incorrect information: Entering the wrong social security number or other incorrect information during the check cashing process may result in a declined check.
What Can You Do If Your Check Is Not Cashed at Walmart?
If your check is not cashed at Walmart, there are several alternatives you can consider:
- Your local bank or credit union: If you have an account with a bank or credit union, they will typically cash checks for their customers.
- The issuing bank: You can try cashing the check at the bank that issued it. They may charge a fee if you don’t have an account with them.
- Local check-cashing stores: There are businesses that specialize in cashing checks, such as ACE Cash Express and Check City.
- Retailers: Some retailers, like Kroger, offer check-cashing services at their customer service desks or money service centers.
- Prepaid debit cards: You can load the check’s funds onto a prepaid debit card.
- Check-cashing apps: Some apps, like PayPal, allow you to deposit checks using your smartphone’s camera.
Remember to bring a valid, government-issued ID when cashing a check at any of these locations. Fees and requirements may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific location before attempting to cash your check.
Conclusion
While Walmart offers a convenient check-cashing service, there may be times when they decline to cash your check due to various reasons. If this happens, understanding the possible reasons and knowing your alternatives can help you successfully cash your check elsewhere. As always, be sure to have your ID on hand and know the check-cashing policies of the institution you’re dealing with to avoid any potential issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Walmart cash checks for non-customers?
Yes, Walmart cashes checks for both customers and non-customers. However, you need to present a valid government-issued photo ID.
What are the fees for cashing a check at Walmart?
Walmart charges a fee for check cashing services. For checks up to and including $1,000, the fee is $4. For checks over $1,000 up to and including $5,000, the fee is $8.
Can I cash a check at Walmart during any time of the day?
The MoneyCenter or customer service desk at Walmart, where check cashing is handled, usually operates during regular store hours. However, these hours can vary based on the specific store, so it’s best to check with your local Walmart.
Are there any other checks that Walmart will not cash?
In addition to handwritten personal checks, Walmart also does not cash checks that are post-dated, or checks that are more than 180 days old.
What happens if my check is declined at Walmart?
If your check is declined at Walmart, you will not be able to cash it there. You can try cashing it at another institution, such as your local bank, the issuing bank, a check-cashing store, another retailer, or using a check-cashing app.
