Does CVS Cash Checks In 2024? (Do This Instead…)
With over 9,900 store locations across the United States, CVS is the largest pharmacy chain nationwide. For convenience, many customers wonder if they can cash checks directly at CVS stores.
Unfortunately, CVS does not offer any check cashing services in 2024 despite its large retail presence. CVS also does not provide cash back when paying by check.
If you need to cash payroll, government, tax refund, or other checks, here are the best alternatives to CVS based on my research.
Key Stats on CVS Check Cashing Policies
- 0 CVS locations offer check cashing services as of 2023
- 9,900+ CVS pharmacy locations in 49 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.
- 1 in 3 Americans live within 3 miles of a CVS pharmacy
- CVS processes around 6 million customer transactions per day
With millions of customers visiting thousands of CVS stores daily, not offering check cashing is a major gap in services compared to competitors.
Where To Cash Checks Instead of CVS
Popular retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Safeway allow check cashing for a small fee. Here‘s an overview of major retailers‘ check cashing services:
| Retailer | Check Cashing Fees | Check Types Accepted |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | $3 for checks up to $1,000 $6 for $1,000 – $5,000 | Payroll, government, tax refund, insurance, retirement, 401k, cashier‘s checks |
| Kroger | $3.50 for checks up to $2,000 $5.50 for $2,000 – $5,000 | Payroll, government, tax refund, insurance, business checks |
| Safeway | $2.25 per $200 cashed | Payroll, government checks |
You can also cash checks at your local bank or credit union, often for lower fees than major retailers. I recommend calling ahead to confirm their fees and limits.
Pros of cashing checks at retailers instead of CVS:
- Wide availability at thousands of major retailer locations
- Quick and convenient while shopping
- Usually low fees around 1-2% of check amounts
Cons to watch out for:
- Compared to banks, retailers may have lower check amount limits
- Retailers likely won‘t cash personal checks from individuals
- No option to deposit check funds into an account
Analyze your options to choose the check cashing solution that best fits your needs.
Does CVS Accept Checks as Payment?
Yes, CVS allows customers to pay by personal and business check in stores. However, be aware of the following policies:
- Valid government-issued photo ID required
- Starter checks may not be accepted at some locations
- Cashier‘s checks are not accepted as payment
- No cash back offered on check payments
I recommend calling your local CVS pharmacy to confirm their specific check payment policies. Expect the clerk to review your ID and run the check through a verification system during checkout.
Tips for Cashing Checks Without CVS
If you need cash quickly from a check, here are my top tips:
- Go during off-peak hours to speed up checkout lines
- Bring a valid photo ID and know the check cashing fees ahead of time
- Be ready to show extra documentation for large checks as proof
- Ask if loyalty card membership discounts fees at retailers like Wegmans
- Compare bank/credit union check cashing rates in your area
With preparation and researching all options, you can efficiently cash checks without reliance on CVS.
The Bottom Line
CVS does not offer any check cashing services despite being the largest pharmacy chain nationwide. For check cashing, use major retailers like Walmart and Kroger or visit local banks/credit unions instead. CVS only allows checks as a form of payment with restrictions. Understand all policies to maximize convenience when paying by check or getting checks cashed.
