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Want to know if Walmart does cash handwritten checks? This article is for you, read on to find out more.
Although handwritten checks are easier to write, many institutions prefer not to accept them for processing. The main reason for this is that handwritten checks are risky and more susceptible to fraud.
With Walmart stores available all over the country, you may be asking: does Walmart cash handwritten checks? Here’s everything to know!
Does Walmart cash handwritten checks?
Most Walmart stores do cash handwritten checks. However, the check must be properly printed to be eligible for cash. The check must include information such as the company’s name, phone number, address, date issued, and the check amount must be written properly both numerically and alphabetically.
If you’re not sure whether or not your handwritten check will be accepted, it’s always best to call the store ahead of time. To learn more, inquire at your local Walmart store before going.
Why does some Walmart store not cash handwritten checks?
The main reason for this is because there is a higher risk of the check being stolen or there being insufficient funds in the account. While this may be an inconvenience for some customers, the policy is in place to protect both the customer and the store.
This is because it is easier to alter the amount of a handwritten check than it is to alter an electronic check. Additionally, handwritten checks can sometimes be difficult to read, which can lead to errors in processing. Finally, handwritten checks can be easily forged, and if someone were to forge a check and it was processed, the institution would be liable for any funds that were withdrawn.
That said, there are still some places that accept handwritten checks, and if you have one that you need to use, it’s worth checking to see if the institution you’re dealing with will accept it. In general, though, it’s probably best to stick to electronic checks whenever possible.
What checks does Walmart accept?
You can cash different types of checks at Walmart but not all checks. Below is the list of checks you can cash at Walmart:
- Government checks
- Tax refund checks
- Payroll checks
- Cashiers’ checks
- Insurance settlement checks
- 401(k), retirement disbursement checks
- MoneyGram Money Orders originally purchased at Walmart
- All pre-printed personal checks
- Two-party personal checks
Walmart has ineligible checks it won’t cash, these include:
- Checks dated more than 180 days prior
- Checks with multiple payees
- Post-dated checks
- Savings bond checks
- Starter checks
- MoneyGram money orders not purchased at Walmart
- Non-MoneyGram money orders
Where can I cash a handwritten check?
if Walmart isn’t an option, there are plenty of options for cashing a check such as banks, credit unions, check cashing stores and retail stores that offer check-cashing services. Some of these places may charge a fee, but it’s usually a small amount.
If you have a bank account, you may be able to cash your handwritten check at one of the local branches or have the cash equivalent of your check deposited into your account.
Alternatively, you might be able to cash the handwritten check at the check issuing bank or at a check-cashing store.
For credit unions and banks that can cash a handwritten check, see the list below:
- Bank of America
- Regions Bank
- HSBC
- Navy Federal Credit Union
- Chartway Federal Credit Union
- Bank of the West
- First National Bank
- PNC Bank
- Chase Bank
- Wells Fargo
Apart from Banks and credit unions, you can also visit check-cashing stores to cash your handwritten check for a small fee, including:
- Money Mart
- United Check Cashing
- Speedy Cash
- Check Into Cash
- Mr. Payroll
- ACE Cash Express
- PLS Check Cashing
Before you visit any of these banks, credit unions, and stores, it is best to get in touch with them in advance to find out about the necessary requirements and fees to cash your handwritten check.
Are there any fees for cashing a handwritten check?
The vast majority of banks will charge a fee for cashing a handwritten check, usually around $5 or less than $10. This is because processing a handwritten check is quite different and more risky than processing a regular check. The bank will also want to make sure that the check is legitimate, so they may require you to show identification. Some banks may also impose a fee ranging from 1% to 3% in relation to the value of the check.
How are handwritten checks cashed?
There are a few ways to cash a handwritten check. The most common way is to take it to the bank that is listed on the check. The bank will then verify the funds and cash the check. Another way to cash a handwritten check is to use a check-cashing service. These services are typically found at stores. The service will charge a fee for cashing the check, but it can be a convenient option if you don’t have a bank account.
The process of cashing a handwritten check is relatively simple. First, the check is presented to a cashier at a bank or other financial institution. The cashier will then verify that the check is valid and that the funds are available. Once your identity has been verified, the cashier will process the handwritten check and provide the cash to you.