According to Bankrate, in 2015, 9 million American families (7% of U.S. households) did not have bank accounts. Although some may think that a bank account is needed to cash a large or small check, there are check-cashing alternatives. However, it may cost you because these services are not usually free if you do not have a bank account. Your most convenient and least costly way to obtain your own money when cashing a check is of course to open a checking account. If that is not feasible, the following can assist you with cashing your checks or money orders received.

Listed below are the main and most popular options for cashing a check without a bank account. With all the options listed, make sure that you have your ID and potentially another form of identification to make sure cashing your check goes smoothly.

Here are a few options on how to cash a large or small check without a bank account:

1. Cash your check at a check-cashing store or currency exchange

There are stores that allow you to cash your check without a bank account, but charge a fee. These are check-cashing stores, many times called a currency exchange, which are usually smaller stores that could be limited in the area you live in. It should be known that these fees can be expensive and larger checks could have a high fee penalty for not using a bank account.

2. You can cash your check at a retail store

This option might be less expensive than a check-cashing store. Another benefit is that these stores may be more accessible to you than a check-cashing store. Wal-Mart and 7-Eleven are examples of stores that offer check-cashing, as well as most large chain grocery stores.

3. You can use a prepaid debit card

This option is useful if you already have a prepaid debit card. You can potentially reload your balance with the check you want to cash. This can be done online with a mobile app or in person at a partner location.

4. You can cash your check at the bank or credit unit that the check originates from

You can bring your check to the bank or credit union listed on the physical check. There may be a fee if the check is over a certain dollar amount. This option can be done in person at a local partner location. Identification will be required to allow cashing.

Although you have several options to cash that check you just received, your safest and least costly way to cash that check is by having your very own checking account so you have immediate access to your funds and get to keep the full amount. Plus, think of how cool those new checks will look when you get to pay your bills or other items, giving you one more chance to show off your style. Companies like Bradford Exchange Checks not only save you money when you buy your checks, but have selection in excess of 800 designs to choose from.