How Can You Cash a Stimulus Check Without an ID?
Do you have a paper check to cash out but no bank account? Don't worry. You can still get your hands on your funds.
You'll be required to show a government-issued ID when cashing them out. But what should I do if I forget or lose my ID? How can I cash a stimulus check without an ID? Read on to find out more.
Most banks will ask for identification before cashing out a check. Yet, this only holds in some cases.
For example, government-issued payments, social security checks, tax return checks, paychecks, pension benefits, and stimulus checks won't necessarily require an ID. The following section will cover how to cash a stimulus check without an ID.
Deposit It into Your Account Through an ATM at Your Bank
The easiest way to deposit a stimulus check is by putting it into your account through an ATM.
Remember that this might take some time (usually 3–5 business days), so you will need to wait until the check clears before you can access your funds. Then, when you deposit a cashier's check, you're in luck—you will receive the cash the following day.
Take Advantage of ATM Check Cashing (if Your Bank Offers It)
Generally, ATMs allow you to deposit cash. However, some will also enable you to cash your checks, making things more convenient for customers.
For instance, if you have a checking account or a prepaid debit card, you may cash your check by inserting it into the ATM. In this case, you can collect up to $3,000 in minutes.
The good thing is—ID isn't necessary for this procedure. All you have to bring is your debit card.
Sign Over Your Stimulus Check to Someone You Trust
If you'd like to know how to cash a stimulus check without an ID or bank account, signing it over to a trusted family member or friend can be your best action. But there are a few steps you shouldn't overlook when endorsing your stimulus check:
- Make a plan before signing a check to someone else.
- Confirm that the person will accept a signed-over check.
- Make sure the bank will allow the check.
- Sign the check on the back in the endorsement area.
- Don't forget to add "Pay to the Order of" and write the third party's full name under your signature.
- Ensure a third party can cash the check.
The most significant benefit is that you won't need to show any identification document for a stimulus check deposited in someone else's account.
Why Do I Need an ID to Cash My Stimulus Check?
Contrary to popular belief, over 21 million Americans don't own a government-issued ID card with a picture. In most cases, their ID might be expired, lost, misplaced, or stolen.
But why are you required to show your ID to cash your stimulus check? The reason is quite simple. Providing an ID will prove you're making transactions to avoid fraud and identity theft. That's why it's essential to have your ID on hand.
What Are Acceptable Forms of ID to Cash a Check?
Besides the state-issued ID, banks accept other forms of identification documents. These include:
- Driver's license
- Passport
- Military ID
- Green card
- Tribal ID
Because financial institutions are not the same and their policies differ, we recommend asking your local bank which documents they accept first.
Remember that foreign licenses and out-of-state identification cards are more likely to be rejected.
Read more: 2022 Ultimate Guide: Which Gas Stations Cash Checks?
How to Have the Money Credited to a PayPal or Similar Account
If you need instant cash, you're probably wondering, "Where can I cash my stimulus check without an ID in a few minutes?" By depositing it into your PayPal or similar cash app account.
If you're choosing PayPal, you must apply for a "PayPal Cash Card." In addition, you should sign up for your PayPal Cash Plus account to receive your stimulus account. Here's how to do it in a few easy steps:
- Sign up for a PayPal Cash Card in the "More" section of the app.
- Click the "Get the Card" button.
- Select "Request Your Card" and "Agree and Continue" after reading the terms and conditions.
- Go to your account settings by clicking the app's top right icon and "Direct Deposit" to check your account number and routing number.
Visit a Cash-Checking Store
Where can I cash my stimulus check without an ID? If you're not tech-savvy and need to learn your way around PayPal, you should consider visiting your local cash-checking store.
The massive downfall is that you should expect higher fees at these facilities than online cash app platforms. Most people, however, are okay with paying extra because they feel comfortable with the store hours, location, and offered services.
Bottom Line
Not having an ID can cause you to fear, but don't worry. You're not explicitly required to show an identification document to cash a stimulus check.
But how can I cash a stimulus check without an ID? You can endorse it to someone else, use an ATM check cashing service with your bank, or use online cash app platforms like PayPal. All you need to do is find what works best for you and cash your check in no time.
