Does Hobby Lobby Accept Checks in 2024? (Full Guide)
Wondering if you can pay by check at arts and crafts retail giant Hobby Lobby? With rising concerns over payment security, knowing retailers‘ policies is key. This 2023 guide details everything consumers need to know about Hobby Lobby‘s check acceptance rules, procedures, and potential risks before paying.
Personal Checks Accepted In-Store Only
Yes, Hobby Lobby allows customers to pay by personal check when shopping at any of its over 900 US store locations as of January 2023. However, Hobby Lobby‘s website does not provide the ability to pay for online orders with checks.
You‘ll need to take your checkbook along on retail trips. Hobby Lobby also accepts cashier‘s checks and money orders in-stores only.
Verify Your Identity to Use Checks
Be prepared to show a valid, government-issued ID like a driver‘s license when paying by check at Hobby Lobby. Cashiers are required to record your ID number to verify the check is legitimately linked to you.
Presenting ID aids fraud prevention and enables Hobby Lobby to track you down if checks bounce later on. Providing false identification information can result in criminal charges.
Hobby Lobby Has a Strict Check Screening Process
While Hobby Lobby welcomes check users under normal circumstances, don‘t expect checks to be approved lightly.
The craft supplies chain utilizes an advanced electronic check verification system called Mastercheck. Mastercheck references national databases to screen checks for risks in real-time during purchase transactions.
- Over 87% of US retailers surveyed use electronic verification for checks and ACH payments. Hobby Lobby is no different.
According to Mastercheck‘s statistics, this verification process has aided retailers in reducing losses from bad checks by approximately 95% compared to manual reviews alone.
Bouncing a Check Brings Big Troubles
What happens if your check bounces after leaving Hobby Lobby with your item purchase? It‘s vital to understand the repercussions before paying by check.
- First, Hobby Lobby attempts electronic collection of NSF check amounts. Unrecovered debts get escalated.
- Next, Hobby Lobby sends NSF checks to partner agencies who pursue consumers legally for repayment and extra fees.
- Unpaid bad checks get reported to national credit bureaus. This damages check writers‘ credit scores negatively impacting loan and credit card rates for 7+ years.
- For large fraudulent check amounts, Hobby Lobby works with law enforcement and district attorneys to file criminal charges punishable by hefty fines or jail time.
In 2022, a woman was arrested for using over $200,000 in bad checks at Hobby Lobby and other retailers. Don‘t let this happen to you! Monitor your account balances closely when paying via check.
Check Payments Delay Returns & Refunds
If you need to return a Hobby Lobby purchase made by check, take note of prolonged processing times.
While returns without receipts normally complete in 1-2 billing cycles, check payments require 10 business days to fully clear Hobby Lobby‘s system before refunds can be initiated. Plan expenses accordingly if relying on check refunds.
Conclusion: Limit Check Use With Awareness
Hobby Lobby does welcome check payments under strict verification and identification procedures. However, consumers should carefully consider risks around bounced checks, refund delays, and fraud before paying this way. Having backup payment sources like cash or cards on hand is wise just in case.
