At the Bank of Issue

• 1). Endorse the check in the upper box on the back. Sign the endorsement in front of the teller.
  
  
• 2). Present legal identification. Most institutions require a state-issued picture ID, such as a driver's license. Some institutions will ask for two pieces of ID and possibly a touchprint signature.
  
  
• 3). Ask for cash in the amount of the check. Many banks and credit unions will honor their own checks and cash them for noncustomers, but they are not legally bound to do so. Some institutions charge a flat fee to cash checks for anyone who doesn't hold an account. Ask for the assistance of a manager if necessary.
  
  

At a Check-Cashing Service Store

• 1). Endorse the check in the appropriate field on back. Sign the check in front of the clerk.
  
  
• 2). Present a state identification card like a driver's license. Be prepared to offer a second form of identification such as a credit card. Some check-cashing stores have identification policies that include divulging other personal information or use electronic fingerprinting.
  
  
• 3). Pay the check-cashing fee. Some businesses offer a flat rate for cashing a check, but others ask for 1 to 10 percent of the check amount.