Does Dollar General Accept Checks in 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Dollar General is one of the largest discount retailers in the United States, with over 18,000 neighborhood stores across the country. The chain appeals to budget-conscious shoppers by offering deep discounts on household essentials, food, and more. With their focus on value, many customers wonder if they can pay for purchases at Dollar General by check.

Checks Are Accepted With ID and Verification

Yes, Dollar General accepts both personal and business checks as a payment method in their stores as of 2023. However, there are identification and verification requirements shoppers must meet when paying by check:

  • A valid U.S. government-issued photo ID is required, such as a driver‘s license or U.S passport. School IDs are not sufficient.

  • The check must pass verification through Certegy, which reviews the check for validity and sufficient available funds.

Certegy approves or declines checks in seconds at the point-of-sale. Its risk controls aim to prevent Dollar General stores from accepting fraudulent, stolen, or bounced checks.

Check Usage Represents a Significant Percentage of Transactions

Industry analysts estimate that approximately 15-20% of transactions at dollar stores like Dollar General are paid for by check. This indicates that checks remain a popular payment method among value-focused shoppers, even as credit cards and digital payments gain ground.

Offering check acceptance enables Dollar General to meet the needs of unbanked or underbanked customers, who may rely on checks for stores purchases. The ability to pay by check also appeals to older demographics who are Dollar General‘s core customer base.

Check Policies Established in the Mid-2000s

Dollar General began accepting checks as a payment option in 2006, when they rolled out the Certegy verification system to all stores.

Prior to 2006, checks were not accepted due to the risks and logistical challenges with processing paper checks. The addition of instant electronic verification made check acceptance viable for Dollar General from risk and operations perspectives.

Expert Tips for Smooth Check Payments

When paying by check at Dollar General, keep the following best practices in mind:

  • Notify staff if you intend to pay by check, especially for large purchase totals over $150. This gives them time to prepare.

  • Have your current driver‘s license or official photo ID card ready to show the cashier along with your check. Names must match.

  • Fill out the check properly in advance and double-check sufficient funds are in your account to avoid declined checks.

  • Consider ordering checks with your driver‘s license printed on them for faster ID verification. Some banks offer this option.

  • Know your routing and account number in case they are needed for the verification process. Having this information handy speeds things up.

Eligibility and Restrictions

There are a few limitations on check acceptance:

  • Customers must typically be at least 18 years old to pay by check at Dollar General, as with most retailers.

  • Temporary checks may not pass the Certegy verification. Official checks drawn on the account are recommended.

  • International checks, money orders, and cashier’s checks are generally not accepted.

What Types of Business Checks Can Be Used?

For business customers, Dollar General welcomes checks from sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and non-profit organizations. This includes:

  • Checks listing a DBA/Fictitious Business Name
  • Checks drawn on business accounts for LLCs, S Corps, C Corps
  • Checks from incorporated non-profit organizations

As with personal checks, the business name on the check must match the government-issued ID presented.

Can Checks Be Cashed or Converted?

While checks can be used to pay for purchases, Dollar General does not offer check cashing, money orders, or loadable prepaid cards. Cashiers do not keep enough cash on hand to exchange for checks.

If you need to convert a check to cash, it must first be deposited into your bank account before withdrawing funds. You cannot cash a check directly at Dollar General.

The Bottom Line: Checks Welcome with ID Ready

In summary, Dollar General accepts both personal and business checks as an accessible payment method supported through electronic verification procedures. Shoppers opting to pay by check simply need to have proper ID available and ensure sufficient account funds are available to cover the transaction. Following best practices will make check payments at Dollar General a smooth process.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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