FAQ

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How do I cash a check without a bank account?

It is easy to cash a check without a bank account at CFSC. Bring your qualifying check to a CFSC store with a documented photo ID, your personal contact information including your name, address, phone number and social security number. We will verify the maker of the check and your identity as the check holder. No waiting for the funds to clear at a regular bank, and no monthly fees.

What forms of ID are acceptable when cashing a check at CFSC?

Government-issued, photo ID, such as a Driver’s License, Passport, Official Foreign Country Photo ID, Official State Photo ID, Student Photo ID, Work Photo ID and some other forms of ID may be acceptable depending upon the type of transaction.

Can I cash my tax refund check at CFSC?

Yes, CFSC will cash your state and /or federal tax refund checks. Just bring your check and proper ID, no waiting for the funds to clear, walk out with cash.

Does CFSC cash employment bonus checks?

Yes, CFSC will cash your qualifying employer bonus check. With proper verification of the maker and acceptable ID, you can cash your check easily and quickly.

What types of checks can I cash at CFSC?

Payroll Checks, Tax Refund Checks, Business Checks (Checks Made out to your Business), Government Checks, Insurance Checks, Benefits Checks, Settlement Checks, and some other institutional checks qualify as well.

Do I need to have a US address?

Though it is preferred to have a US address, depending upon the transaction, verification and forms of ID, a US address may not be necessary.

Can I cash a check after business hours?

Yes, CFSC stores are open extended hours for your convenience. Many are open 24 hours, 7 days per week. Please check individual locations for the hours of the stores nearest you.

Can I cash a check on the weekend?

Yes, all CFSC store locations are open on Saturdays, and many are open on Sundays as well as 24 hours. Please check individual locations for the hours of the stores nearest you.

What is a Money Order?

A money order is a form of payment that is similar to paying with a check. A money order is paid in advance and a paper check is issued for payment to another person or company. You do not need a bank account to purchase a money order or to cash one.

Is a Money Order secure?

A money order can be more a secure and reliable way of paying another person or company, and as well as receiving a payment from someone else. A money order provides you with a receipt and proof of payment, and is trackable should you send money to someone. It therefore can be more secure than sending or paying someone with cash.

What can a Money Order be used for?

  • To send money through the mail
  • To make payments on purchases
  • To pay bills
  • Any time you want to make a secure payment to a third party

How do I purchase and use a Money Order?

  • Bring cash to your CFSC store to cover the amount of the money order plus the fee
  • Provide the teller with the proper photo ID
  • Fill out the money order details on the form including the name of the recipient of the money order. This can be a person or company.
  • Deliver your money order in person or by mail

How can I send money to someone?

As a Western Union Agent location, CFSC can send money for you by using cash or, in some cases, a debit card.

What do I need to send money to someone?

You will need:

  • Your receiver’s name as it appears on their government-issued ID
  • Your receiver’s city/province/state and country
  • Your valid photo ID

Can I send money to someone in any country?

Yes, you can send money to someone in the same or another city, state or country. Currently, we can send money through Western Union to over 200 countries including the following key countries:

  • Argentina
  • Aruba
  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Caribbean Islands
  • China
  • Columbia
  • Dominican Republic
  • England
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Italy
  • Israel
  • Japan
  • Korea
  • Mexico
  • Nigeria
  • Pakistan
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Russia
  • And Many Others

When will the recipient receive the money?

Depending upon how you prepare your transaction, you can send money to arrive the same day within certain guidelines or another day that you choose.

Where can the recipient go to pick up the money?

Transferred money can be sent to a bank account number or any agent location including a check cashing location near the recipient’s home or work.

What does the recipient need to pick up the money?

Your receiver will need to fill out the To Receive Money Form (TRMF) and present valid photo ID. They will also need:

  • At tracking number (MTCN)
  • Sender’s complete name
  • Sender’s country state/city/province may be required
  • Expected amount

How will the recipient receive the money?

Money can be received in cash, in a bank account, on a prepaid card or (in select countries) on a phone—ask your sender to use the delivery method that’s most convenient for you.

Can I pick up a money transfer from any CFSC location?

Yes, you can pick up a money transfer from any CFSC location.

What’s the fastest way to send money?

Visit a CFSC location and pay with cash or prepaid debit card, where available. Be sure to choose the fastest option. For example, Western Union’s Money in Minutes option.

Can I send money to someone in a correctional facility?

Yes, you can send money to someone at a correctional facility however, you will need:

  • Correctional facility name (or code city)
  • Inmate’s account number
  • Inmate’s complete name
  • Amount in cash or prepaid debit card

Do I Need A Bank Account To Purchase A Yes! Debit Card?

No, you do not need a bank account to purchase or activate a Yes! Debit card.

Is a credit check required to get a Yes! Debit Account?

No, a credit check is not required when you apply for a Yes! Debit Account.

Can the Yes! Debit™ card be used internationally?

Yes, the Yes! Debit™ card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted nationally and internationally.

How old do you need to be to get a Yes! Debit™ card?

You must be 18 years of age the day you apply for a Yes! Debit™ Account.

Can you have a companion or second card holder on a Yes! Debit™ Account?

No, at this time we cannot accept companion or 2nd individuals on a Yes! Debit™ Account, however, you can transfer funds between a Yes! Debit™ Account and a Netspend Prepaid Account which may help you with a child, spouse or other relative.

May I have more than one Yes! Debit™ Account at the same time?

Yes, if you qualify, you may have up to 10 accounts under one name.

What is the cost to have a Yes! Debit™ Account?

To receive a card, the initial one-time cost is $2.95 plus a $5.00 per month service fee. This is all you are charged to use your account. You are not charged per transaction. Some features do incur fees if you opt into those specific features. Please see full terms and conditions or speak with a CFSC representative for more information regarding fees.

What do I need to pay a bill?

  1. Your bill with bill stub if applicable
  2. Your account number
  3. Cash to cover the bill and associated service fee

Is the payment for a bill immediate?

CFSC offers different bill payment options based on the billing company policy. Most companies will allow for same day and next day payments. (Additional fees may apply.)

How much does it cost to pay a bill?

Some electronic bill pay, depending upon the company, is free of charge. All others have a convenience fee. See a CFSC Customer Service Representative at the store or call your local store for details.

What do I do with unwanted gift cards?

Many people do not have use for the gift cards they receive. Either the product or service is not one that they would like to have or the place to redeem them is not conveniently located. If you find yourself in this position, you may redeem your gift card for a portion of the value and receive it in cash. Proper ID is required and other restrictions may apply. Please see store for details.

What brands of gift cards do you accept?

Almost all gift card brands are accepted including retail, online and financial brands, however some restrictions apply. Please see store for details.

What country’s foreign currency can I exchange at CFSC?

CFSC offers competitive exchange rates for more than 80 foreign currencies. We can accommodate most walk-up transactions with cash on the spot, or a minimal waiting period for rarer currencies. Contact your local CFSC for specific details.

How do I know what the rates are when exchanging foreign currency?

Daily exchange rates are posted at each location for your convenience, and remain constant throughout the day.

When leaving the country, should I get foreign currency locally or just do it at the airport?

When traveling, the more you do prior to getting to the airport, generally the better. No need to add more stress when you can get foreign currency more easily in your neighborhood. Plus, when you exchange foreign currency at the airport, the rates are typically higher than you would pay locally.

Should I exchange foreign currency immediately upon arriving back to the US?

If you are not in a hurry to exchange your currency, you can hold onto the currency and track the exchange rates and exchange it when rates are highest.

Where can I buy Bitcoin?

Some CFSC locations have bitcoin purchase services available for your convenience. Please check CFSC locations near to you.

Is it easy to purchase Bitcoin?

Yes, it is easy to purchase Bitcoin at select CFSC locations – as easy as using an ATM machine!

Where can I purchase Lottery tickets?

Most CFSC locations sell lottery tickets for your convenience.

What types of lottery tickets can I buy at CFSC?

Lotto, Win 4, Take Five, Quick Draw, Numbers, Pick 10, Cash4Life, Power Ball, Mega Millions, Sweet Million, Scratch-Off Instant Games.

How old do you have to be to play lottery games?

The most common gambling age for the state lottery is 18 years, but certain states require you to be 21 years of age to play lottery games.

Where can I cash in my coins?

Most CFSC locations have the ability to count and cash your coins in seconds. Check store locations for coin exchange services near you.

Where can I buy a Metro Card?

Most CFSC locations sell Transit and MetroCards for your convenience. Please check CFSC locations near you!

Will MetroCard be phased out?

MetroCard will continue to be available until all comparable services are offered with OMNY. This is currently planned for completion in 2023.

What is OMNY?

OMNY is the MTA’s new fare payment system. OMNY will be phased in over time and will unify fare payments and mobile ticketing across subway, bus, and commuter rail, resulting in a seamless experience for customers.

Will OMNY replace MetroCard?

Yes, OMNY will replace MetroCard. Fares will be the same for both systems.

Do I need a smart device to use OMNY?

No, you do not need a Smart device to use OMNY. You can purchase an OMNY card that you can reload whenever you need to add additional funds. An OMNY card is a contactless transit card that works just like a Smart device – you just use the card to tap instead of using a Smart device.

Can I use cash with OMNY?

You can use cash to buy a new OMNY card or reload an existing OMNY card at any NY CFSC location.

Can I renew my car registration somewhere other than a Motor Vehicle location?

Yes, avoid the lines and appointments at state offices and visit your nearest CFSC location in Illinois or Wisconsin for fast, reliable service.

What states do you serve for title and license payment services?

Illinois and Wisconsin

Do I need an appointment?

No, our locations conveniently accept walk-ins, no appointment is necessary.

What Automobile services are offered at CFSC locations?

Title registration, Title transfers, License Plate Renewals, Transfer of old plates to new car, and Tag Sticker Updates.

What do I need to renew my plates?

Old Registration or VIN and Plate number, cash or debit cards for payment. Some locations may accept credit card payments, but you should check with the store location first.

Can I transfer plates from my old car to a new one?

Yes, you can transfer plates from your old car to a new or used car that you have purchase. We cannot transfer plates to a new owner.

What do I need to transfer my plates?

To transfer plates from your old car to your new (or used) car, please bring: Title, Photo ID, proof of address, cash or a debit card. Some locations may accept credit cards, but you should check with the store location first.

Can I renew my stickers if they are expired?

Yes, you can renew your stickers even if they have expired.

How do I know my transactions are secure with the State?

We are licensed with the state to handle automobile payment services for Illinois and Wisconsin. We have been providing automobile payment services for decades and have processed thousands of applications successfully for over 30 years.

Will I get my plates right away?

Yes, you can walk out with your plates provided that your application is complete, you have the required payment fee, and valid documents and ID.

Will I get my plates right away?

Yes, you can walk out with your plates provided that your application is complete, you have the required payment fee, and valid documents and ID.

My plates were stolen. Can you replace them for me?

Yes, bring your registration, photo ID, a copy of the police report and cash or debit card, and we can give you temporary plates the same day. Your new plates can be mailed directly to your home or to our location for you to pick up at your convenience.

Do you update my information and renewals in the state’s online system?

Yes, we take care of all that for you in less time than it takes waiting at the State Secretary’s office or DMV.

I have a motorcycle; can you help me?

Absolutely, we process title, license and sticker payments for motorcycles, boats, and snow mobiles, as well as all types of automobiles.

Are you open on the weekends?

Yes, our locations are open early and late, on Saturdays and most locations are also open on Sundays. Please check the Locations tab for store hours and addresses.

Can I call you with questions? Of course, you can!

Our phone number is: 1-815-446-AUTO (2886). A live person will answer your call during working hours, or someone will call you back as soon as possible to answer any questions you may have.

Can I cash my tax refund check without a bank account?

You certainly can cash your tax refund check without a bank account at CFSC. We provide immediate cash for your tax refund check, and other government checks, so you can get access to your money right away. It’s your money, don’t wait for it, cash your checks at CFSC the minute you receive them! Valid photo identification required.

What if I receive my tax refund on a debit card?

You can unload your tax refund from a debit card quickly and without a hassle at CFSC. Just bring in your photo ID and we will unload your debit card so you can have your tax refund in cash within minutes!

How can I get a direct deposit of my tax refund without a bank account?

Your local CFSC store can receive your direct deposit up to 4 days early safely and securely for you. So don’t wait, visit your local CFSC and complete the direct deposit form as early as January, and you can rest assured knowing your tax refund will be delivered to that store up to 4 days earlier than if you received it in the mail. Valid photo identification required.

Where can I find a safe ATM to use at night?

Most CFSC locations offer ATM services and many CFSC locations are open 24 hours. Our ATM machines are located in our lobbies and there is always a teller in the store during open hours to help you feel less alone and a bit more secure. Minimize your risk by using an ATM at a CFSC location any time of day or night. Visit CFSC.com for hours of store locations.

How do prepaid cell phone services work?

Simply, you purchase a regular cell phone with a set service providing a certain number of minutes usable over a certain number of months. You pre-pay for those minutes and when they run out, you can upload additional minutes as needed.

Do I have a contract with a prepaid phone service?

No, with a prepaid phone service, you pay for your minutes up front and when you have used all of your minutes, you must pay to add more minutes to use your phone again. You may keep the same phone and continue to pay for additional minutes, as you need them.

Can you text with a prepaid cellular phone?

In addition to making and receiving calls, you can text-message and picture-message, depending upon the phone’s features, until you run out of minutes.

How can I cash my business checks quickly?

At CFSC, we cash your business checks practically on the spot. With proper identification and verification procedures, you can walk in with a check made payable to your business and walk out with cash the same day without waiting for funds to clear.

Loyalty Rewards Terms & Conditions

Does CFSC have a Loyalty Rewards program?

Yes! Earn points with your transactions and redeem them for discounts on future purchases.

Is the Loyalty Rewards program free?

Yes! CFSC Loyalty Rewards program is free to customers. Earn points for just doing what you already do. It’s our way of saying “Thank You” for working with CFSC on all your everyday financial needs.

What CFSC stores offer Loyalty Rewards?

Currently, all New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and California stores offer the CFSC Loyalty Rewards program.

How do I know how many Rewards Points I have?

You can see your Rewards Points add up on your receipt or you can always ask your teller when you are in the store.

*State regulated service fees apply.

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