Significance

• The name on the check must match the identification presented to the check-cashing business. As a protective measure against fraudulent activities, a check-cashing business or bank will not cash a check without the presentation of a photo ID. The identification requirements needed to cash a check vary based on the financial institution. You may be required to present two forms of identification, a primary and secondary ID, or you may only need to present one photo ID.
  
  

Primary Identification

• All financial institutions require a person to present at least a primary identification to cash a check. Examples of a primary ID include a state-issued drivers' license or identification card. A drivers' license or state-issued ID card can be obtained from the secretary or department of state where you reside. Check cashers who serve in the armed forces can present a military ID as a primary form of identification. Passports may qualify as a primary form of identification, depending on the financial institution.
  
  

Secondary Identification

• Financial institutions may request a secondary form of identification as a way to verify your identity. Acceptable forms of secondary identification include a utility bill, Social Security card or a credit card. A utility bill may include a phone, cable, water, gas or electric bill. The utility bill should be in your name and the current address on the utility bill should match the address on your photo ID card. Gathering two forms of identification gives a bank or financial institution added assurance that the money is going into the proper hands.
  
  

Considerations

• Depending on the financial institution, a person with a bank account may be able to cash a check without ID. However, the check may have to be under a certain amount designated by the financial institution. A bank may not cash a check for you unless you have an account at their financial institution. You can have a friend or family member cash a check for you by endorsing the check and allowing them to deposit the check in their bank account. Once the check is deposited in the account, your friend or family member can provide you with the cash. In this scenario, you do not have to present ID to cash a check.