Check Cashing Stores in Florida

How does check cashing work in Florida?

Like most states, check cashing in Florida is relatively simple. Just take the check to the cashier, endorse/sign for it, they’ll do some verification checks, and if all is above board, you’ll get cash in hand.

Note: Because there is a level of risk for a cashier, you will be charged a fee that will come out of the cash you receive. This can vary based on the policies of the store, but local Florida state law has some limitations to protect your payroll checks.

Some check cashing stores will offer a membership program by which they verify your identity once, issue you a personal ID card, and you can then cash checks quickly at the same store just by showing said ID. Legally you should only be charged once for membership.

Florida check cashing laws

Check cashing is governed by federal and local Florida state law under the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. The check-cashing store must be licensed under Chapter 560.1401 or the Florida Statutes. This legislation stipulates that all check cashing stores must clearly display the forms of ID required to accept your check, as well as a breakdown of the fees associated. You must agree with all before endorsing the check.

In Florida, you can be charged no more than 5% of the check’s value (6% without ID) or $5 – whichever is highest if you’re cashing in your wage check.

If you are cashing a state public assistance check or federal Social Security check, it’s 3% (or 4% without ID) or $5 (whichever is highest).

Personal checks or money orders can come with higher fees up to 10% as per Statutes § 560.309.

Of course, these fees are higher than at a bank, but in most cases, those using the service do not have a bank account. The benefit is that you get the cash right away while it can take days for checks to clear at a bank account.