What Happens When You Cash a Fake Check at Walmart? (Beware)

As of 2022, Walmart will offer a wide range of financial services for sending money orders and cashing checks through its MoneyCenters.

However, one question you might be wondering is what happens when you cash a fake check at Walmart? Here’s everything you need to know!

What Happens When You Cash a Fake Check at Walmart in 2022?

Anyone found to cash a counterfeit check at Walmart faces consequences including a chargeback, damaged credit rating and criminal prosecution in 2022. Walmart verifies the authenticity of each check through third-party electronic systems, and Walmart employees are trained to identify counterfeit checks.

If you want to know exactly what happens to customers who are vetted by Cash Fraud and how Walmart reduces the risk, read on!

How does Walmart detect fake checks?

Walmart employees are well trained when it comes to clearing checks of all types. Additionally, Walmart’s policy only allows customers to cash checks in their own personal name.

For this reason, Walmart requires a valid photo ID, such as a passport. For example, a passport or driver’s license, and Walmart employees compare these details with great care.

The checks are then authenticated on site by electronic third-party systems powered by TeleCheck and Certegy. In many cases, this system detects counterfeit checks on the spot.

What are the consequences of cashing a fake check at Walmart?

Rules vary from store to store due to state laws. However, offenders are generally required to return the entire check amount to Walmart.

If you have already spent the check amount, you may need to use an overdraft facility, which may incur additional fees.

In some cases, Walmart can prosecute offenders, resulting in a prison sentence.

For example, Walmart stores based in Florida convicted customers who fraudulently deposited forged checks.

What happens when you cash a fake check without knowing it?

Walmart does not typically prosecute victims of fraud. However, payees remain responsible for repaying the entire check amount, damaging your overall credit score. Protect yourself from fraud by keeping an eye out Walmart scam alert page.

Why would Walmart refuse to cash a check?

Users of fake IDs will be turned away immediately and risk a store ban. Walmart will not accept checks that fail any stage of the verification process.

Additionally, Walmart does not process handwritten checks. The distributor, its address, telephone number, your name and the total amount must be printed. Signatures can be written by hand.

To see how Walmart fights theft and fraudulent activity in its stores, you can check out our guides on how Walmart tracks shoplifters, whether Walmart charges shoplifters, sets off Walmart door security alarms, and how long Walmart keeps CCTV footage.

Bottom Line: What Happens When You Forge a Check at Walmart?

Walmart will act in accordance with state law. Anyone who cashes checks fraudulently faces imprisonment. Payees are responsible for reimbursing the entire check, even if you didn’t know about the fake check. Walmart employees verify checks with a valid photo ID and third-party electronic authenticators.