Does Walmart Cash Cashier’s Checks? (Complete Guide)

Walmart, a Goliath of the retail industry, serves millions of customers daily, furnishing a vast selection of products at budget-friendly prices. However, beyond its primary role as a retail outlet, Walmart also extends a range of financial services through its MoneyCenter, transforming it into a hub of financial convenience.A common question that surfaces is – does Walmart cash cashier’s checks?. We aim to answer this question exhaustively in this article.

Walmart’s Financial Services

Walmart first ventured into financial services in the early 2000s, a strategic move that expanded its offerings beyond the typical retail inventory. This gave birth to the MoneyCenter, an in-store portal providing a variety of financial services like

• Money transfers
• Bill payments
• Check cashing.

These services feed to a vast member of the population, especially the’ unbanked‘ or ‘underbanked‘- individualities who, for myriad reasons, don’t have access to traditional banking services. This initiative played a crucial role in making financial services more accessible and inclusive.

What is a Cashier’s Check?

A cashier’s check is a type of check that offers a secure form of payment for significant transactions. Unlike a particular check, a cashier’s check is drawn directly against the bank’s finances rather than against a particular account, making it a more guaranteed form of payment.

• Guaranteed Funds: Cashier’s checks are backed by the bank’s own funds, making them a more secure option compared to personal checks.
• Drawn by a Bank or Credit Union: A cashier’s check is issued by a bank or credit union and signed by a teller or cashier.
• Used for Significant Transactions: Given their security, cashier’s checks are often used for large purchases such as real estate, cars, or other significant transactions where the recipient requires assurance that the funds are available.
• Fee for Service: Most banks and credit unions charge a fee for issuing a cashier’s check.
• Requires Immediate Payment: To obtain a cashier’s check, you must pay the bank the full amount of the check upfront, plus any applicable fees.
• More Trustworthy: Since the funds are guaranteed by the bank, cashier’s checks are seen as more trustworthy and less likely to bounce due to insufficient funds.

Remember, it’s important to keep cashier’s checks in a safe place, as they can be difficult to replace if lost or stolen.

Does Walmart Cash Cashier’s Checks?

Yes, Walmart does cash cashier’s checks.

Walmart is not just a retail giant but also provides several financial services through its Walmart MoneyCenters, and one such service includes check cashing. This service is not limited to personal checks alone; Walmart also cashes cashier’s checks.

The fees for this service are competitive, often lower than traditional banks or check cashing services. Moreover, with its extended operating hours and vast number of locations, Walmart provides a convenient solution for individuals needing to cash a cashier’s check. Always remember to bring a valid ID when using this service at Walmart.

MoneyCenter Products and Services at Walmart

Walmart’s MoneyCenter offers a wide range of financial services designed to help customers manage their money conveniently and cost-effectively.

Here are some of the primary products and services available at Walmart MoneyCenters:

• Check Cashing
• Money Transfers
• Money Orders
• Bill Pay
• Prepaid Debit Cards
• Tax Preparation Services
• Coinstar

What Policies Does Walmart Money Center Follow for Cashing Checks?

Here are the general rules for check cashing at the Walmart Money Center:

1. Types of Checks: Walmart can cash many types of pre-printed checks. These include payroll checks, government checks, tax refund checks, cashiers’ checks, insurance settlement checks, and 401(k) retirement disbursement checks. In some cases, they can also cash money orders issued by Walmart.
2. Check Limits: Walmart typically cashes checks up to $5,000 outside of tax season. From January to April, this limit is increased to $7,500.
3. Identification: You must present a valid, government-issued photo ID to cash a check.
4. Fees: The fees for check cashing vary based on the check amount. As of my last update, they charged $4 for checks up to $1,000 and $8 for checks over $1,000.
5. Endorsement: The back of the check must be signed in the presence of the cashier.
6. Third-Party Verification: Walmart uses a third-party system to verify the check. If the system flags a check as risky, Walmart reserves the right not to cash it.

Check Cashing Service at Walmart

Walmart’s check cashing service is part of their financial services, offered through their Walmart MoneyCenters. It provides customers a convenient, often lower-cost option to cash their checks without the need for a bank account.

Types of Checks Cashed

• Payroll checks
• Government checks
• Tax refund checks
• Insurance settlement checks
• 401(k) retirement disbursement checks
• Cashier’s checks
• Money orders purchased from Walmart

This diverse range ensures that Walmart can cater to most check-cashing needs.

Benefits of Using Walmart’s Check Cashing Services:

Convenience and Accessibility

One significant benefit of using Walmart’s check cashing services is the convenience. With stores open beyond traditional banking hours, including weekends, customers can cash their checks at times that work best for them. Also, since Walmart has locations nationwide, accessing this service is straightforward for most people.

Cost-Effectiveness

Walmart charges a nominal fee for its check cashing service, often lower than what is charged by many banks and check cashing stores. This makes it a cost-effective solution for many, especially for those without access to traditional banking services.

Easy Process to Cash Checks

The process of cashing a check at Walmart is simple. Customers present their check at a Walmart MoneyCenter or customer service desk, along with a valid ID. After the check is verified, customers can receive their funds in cash or loaded onto a Walmart MoneyCard.

Cashier’s Check Policy at Walmart

Walmart’s check-cashing policy stipulates that the company does cash cashier’s checks. Here are some key points to note:

• Walmart has set a maximum check-cashing limit. For most of the year, this is $5,000. However, from January to April, this limit increases to $7,500 to accommodate tax refunds.
• Customers must present a valid, government-issued photo ID. Accepted forms of identification include driver’s licenses, military IDs, passports, and state-issued IDs.
• The service is not free. For checks up to and including $1,000, the fee is $4.
• For checks over $1,000, the fee is $8.

Where Can I Cash a Cashier’s Check at Walmart?

To cash a cashier’s check at Walmart, you can visit one of the following locations in the store:

• Walmart MoneyCenter: Many Walmart stores have a dedicated area, known as the Walmart MoneyCenter, where customers can access financial services including check cashing.
• Customer Service Desk: If a Walmart store does not have a dedicated MoneyCenter, you can usually cash your cashier’s check at the customer service desk.

Procedure to Cash a Cashier’s Check at Walmart

Cashing a cashier’s check at Walmart is a simple, streamlined process:

1. Visit your nearest Walmart store.
2. Proceed to the MoneyCenter. If there isn’t a MoneyCenter, visit the customer service desk.
3. Present the cashier’s check you want to cash along with your valid ID.
4. After the check is verified, you’ll be required to pay the service fee.
5. You can then receive your cash, or have the amount loaded onto a Walmart MoneyCard.

Deciding Between a Cashier’s Check and a Money Order

Selecting between a cashier’s check and a money order can often come down to your specific needs, the amount of money involved, and the level of security required.

Here’s a more detailed look at when it might be more appropriate to use one over the other:

When to Use a Cashier’s Check

Cashier’s checks, as mentioned earlier, are drawn from a bank’s own funds, making them highly secure and trusted forms of payment. They’re often used for larger transactions due to their high limit or no limit at all.

Here are some situations when a cashier’s check may be the best choice:

• Large Purchases: If you’re making a substantial purchase like a car, a home, or other high-cost items, a cashier’s check can provide the needed security. The funds are guaranteed by the bank, giving the seller confidence in the transaction.
• Instant Availability of Funds: Cashier’s checks are often treated as guaranteed funds because the bank, not the purchaser, is responsible for paying the amount. This means the recipient can access the funds quicker.
• High Level of Trust: If you need to prove you have the funds available for a transaction, a cashier’s check offers a high level of trust because it’s drawn on the bank’s own funds.

When to Use a Money Order

Money orders are also a secure payment method, but they’re typically used for smaller amounts. A money order is prepaid, meaning you pay for the full amount upfront plus a small fee. They’re often used for sending money in the mail and international transfers.

Here are a few scenarios when a money order might be the best choice:

• Sending Money in the Mail: If you need to send money in the mail, a money order is a safe option because it can be made payable to a specific person, making it hard for anyone else to cash it.
• International Transfers: If you’re sending money overseas, money orders are a good option as they’re widely accepted worldwide. Check the restrictions and fees before sending a money order internationally.
• No Bank Account: Money orders can be purchased at many locations like post offices, grocery stores, and check-cashing stores, not just at banks. This makes them accessible for people without a bank account.

In conclusion, whether a cashier’s check or a money order is the better choice for you largely depends on the amount you’re paying, how quickly the recipient needs the funds, and the level of security required for the transaction.

How Walmart check right there and then if a check is legitimate?

When you present a check for cashing at Walmart, the cashier will usually verify its legitimacy using a third-party verification system.

This system cross-checks the details on the check, such as the issuer’s information, routing and account numbers, and amount, against a database of known fraudulent or bad checks.

Can I cash a certified cashiers bank check at Walmart?

Yes, Walmart does cash certified cashier’s checks.

These are a type of cashier’s check, with the bank guaranteeing that the money will be paid. Walmart treats cashier’s checks like any other type of pre-printed check and the same check cashing limits and fees will apply. Remember to bring a valid government-issued photo ID with you to cash your certified cashier’s check at Walmart.

What is the Maximum amount Walmart will Cash on a Check?

Walmart will cash checks up to $5,000 outside of tax season (January to April). During tax season, the limit is increased to $7,500.

However, it’s important to note that limits can change, and local laws can also have an impact. Therefore, it’s a good idea to verify the current check cashing limit directly with Walmart before attempting to cash a large check.

Comparisons with Other Institutions

Compared to traditional banks, Walmart’s check-cashing service offers several advantages. The lower fees for large checks and extended operating hours make it a convenient choice.

However, banks may still be a better option for those who frequently need to cash checks, especially if they maintain an account there, as this often eliminates the need to pay fees.

Also Read: Does Walmart has a Coinstar?(Price & Everything)

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Walmart has effectively democratized access to financial services through its MoneyCenter, bridging a significant gap for unbanked and underbanked consumers. One of its valuable services is check cashing, including cashier’s checks. With the convenience of one-stop shopping and financial services, coupled with extensive operating hours, Walmart provides a feasible, user-friendly alternative to traditional banking for many.

Whether you’ve received a cashier’s check from selling a car, closing a large sale, or through other means, rest assured that Walmart stands ready to cash your check efficiently and affordably. It’s just another way Walmart continues to serve and support its vast customer base.