Does Walmart Take Checks – Here’s How It Works

Whether you’re running errands or shopping, it’s always helpful to know the different payment methods retailers accept. If you find yourself at Walmart and are considering using checks, you might be wondering if this is an acceptable form of payment at their stores.

Walmart does accept checks as a payment method. All you need to do is present your check to the cashier after your items have been scanned. However, it’s important to note that there may be some restrictions or limitations on using checks.

This availability at their stores makes it easier for you to shop and pay with your preferred method, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Let’s get into how you can use your checks at Walmart to pay, what the process looks like, and any hiccups you may run into along the way.

A Look Into Walmart’s Check Policy

Walmart does accept checks as a payment method for purchases at their stores across the United States. However, there are some restrictions and limitations in place.

When you pay with a check, it must be verified before it can be accepted as payment. This is similar to someone vetting a $100 bill to make sure it’s legit. I actually welcome this verification, because this provides an additional layer of security for both you and the retailer.

It’s also worth noting that you can request up to $20 in cash back when paying with a check at Walmart as well which is neat. Most of us only think about doing this with a debit card, but it’s nice to know you can try other methods when the time arises.

Types of Checks Accepted at Walmart

At Walmart, various types of checks are accepted as valid payment methods. These include:

1. Personal checks: These are the most common type of checks and can be used to make purchases at Walmart.
2. Business checks: Businesses can pay for supplies and items at Walmart using their business checks.
3. Starter checks: Even if you’re a new account holder without personalized checks, starter checks from your bank are also accepted.
4. Payroll checks: Employees can cash their payroll checks at Walmart and use the funds for purchasing items.
5. Government checks: Walmart also accepts checks issued by government agencies, such as tax refunds or government assistance checks.

Despite the wide range of accepted checks, there are some limitations:

• Handwritten personal checks may not be accepted at Walmart.
• Insurance settlement checks are not accepted for direct purchases, but you can cash them at Walmart and use the cash for your purchase.

Advantages of Paying with Checks at Walmart

Paying with a check at Walmart has some advantages that you might find appealing.

Firstly, using checks can provide a sense of security. When you pay with a check, you minimize the risk of your sensitive banking information being stolen or compromised in the event of a data breach or point-of-sale hack.

It’s a piece of paper, and I love the simplicity of that. No tapping of your card, or weird microchips. And, since you’re handing off the check yourself, no risk of forging. This added layer of security can provide you with peace of mind while making your purchases.

Secondly, checks offer an alternative for people who prefer traditional payment methods or have limited access to credit cards and electronic payment options. By accepting checks, Walmart ensures they cater to various customer preferences and financial situations.

Here are some other advantages of paying with checks at Walmart:

• It allows you to track your spending by having a physical record of each transaction.
• You can request cashback up to $20 when paying by check.
• With checks, you directly draw funds from your bank account. It reduces the chances of overspending and accruing credit card debt.

How to Pay with Checks at Walmart

Paying with a check isn’t a complicated process at Walmart. And believe it or not, you can use it in several locations in the store including both cash register and self-checkout options.

Paying by Check at the Cash Register

To pay with a check at the cash register, follow these steps:

1. Shop for your desired items and proceed to the checkout lane with a cashier.
2. Present your pre-printed check with your name and account number on it.
3. Write the check for the total amount of your purchase, and make sure you have enough space for the cashier to write the necessary confirmation details.
4. Provide the cashier with a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) for verification.
5. The Walmart associate will process your check and provide you with a receipt.

Keep in mind Walmart may offer a cashback option when paying by check. Inquire with the cashier about Walmart cash and any maximum limits before you complete your transaction.

Paying by Check at Self-Checkout

While Walmart’s self-checkout machines are primarily designed for card and cash payments, you can still pay by check in some instances. Here’s how to do it:

1. Shop for your items and approach a self-checkout kiosk.
2. Scan all your items at the kiosk and follow the prompts on the screen.
3. When prompted for payment, select the “Help” button or call for assistance from a nearby Walmart associate.
4. The associate will help you complete the check payment process, following similar steps as when paying at the cash register (such as verifying your ID and processing the check).

Remember, always have a valid government-issued photo ID and your pre-printed checks with your name and account number on hand when paying by check at Walmart.

Things To Be Careful With When Using Checks At Walmart

Although using checks at Walmart is straightforward, there are some things to be careful with when using checks there and they include the following:

• Make sure you have enough funds in your account to cover your check
• Avoid using check payments at self checkout

If you don’t have enough funds, and your check bounces, you might be liable for additional fees as most retailers charge between $20 – $40 for that.

And with self checkout, sometimes there can be delays or errors when you’re trying to scan your check there. It’s best to leave that payment method up to a real human.