William Lipovsky
ShopRite stores are individually owned and operated, so each location’s owner makes policy decisions like which money services to offer.[1][2]
After contacting stores in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, I found that only about 30% of the locations I called offer money orders and check cashing.
Additionally, though some locations sell money orders, none of those I called will cash them.[2]
Below, I explain the ShopRite money order and check cashing policies (where available), including the fees, limits, and requirements.
ShopRite Money Order Policy
While some ShopRite stores sell Western Union money orders, none of the locations I contacted will cash money orders (even those originally bought at ShopRite).[2]
You can find out if your local ShopRite sells money orders by contacting the store or checking Western Union’s location finder.[3]
When using the Western Union locator, be sure to uncheck all filters other than money orders so that your search doesn’t return agent locations that don’t sell money orders.[3]
Fees and Limits
ShopRite charges a fee of about $1 per money order and prints a new money order for every $500 or $1,000 you spend, depending on the store.[2]
You can purchase up to $2,999.99 in money orders at one time; ShopRite will print multiple money orders if your purchase exceeds the amount limit for a single money order.[2]
Requirements
You can only purchase money orders at ShopRite with cash or a debit card. You can’t pay with a credit card or check.[2]
You don’t need to present an ID unless you spend $1,000 or more.[2]
For money order purchases between $1,000 and $2,999, you must present a valid government-issued photo ID and fill out paperwork documenting your purchase.[2]
Tip: You can always find out if the recipient has cashed your money order by calling Western Union at (800) 999-9660. In addition, be sure to hold onto the receipt, as you’ll need the money order number to retrieve this information or request a refund.[4][5]
ShopRite Check Cashing Policy
ShopRite’s check cashing policy varies by location. However, the stores that offer this service tend to follow the same general guidelines, as detailed below.[2]
Fees and Limits
The typical limit for check cashing at ShopRite stores is $500, though each location sets its own limit.[2]
While some stores don’t charge a fee for this service, others charge about $1 per check cashed.[2]
Requirements
You must present a valid government-issued photo ID to cash a check at ShopRite.[2]
You’ll also need to sign up for check cashing services at the customer service desk and present your check cashing card each time you cash a check.[2]
Some locations only cash payroll checks, while others cash personal and business checks in addition to payroll. None of the stores I spoke with cash federal checks.[2]
Alternatives
While ShopRite doesn’t typically cash money orders, you can do so at Walmart,[6] your bank,[7][8] or a check cashing store.[9][10]
For more check cashing options, you can also check out the list of grocery stores that cash checks.
It’s a good idea to compare your options so you can be sure the store’s fees and limits will work for your check.
FAQ
No, you can only use these services when the customer service desk is open. Customer service desk hours vary by store but are generally from the time the store opens until 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. For exact times, contact your local ShopRite.[2]
No, you don’t need a check cashing card or another membership to buy money orders.[2]
No, but there are two alternatives. As long as you have the money order or receipt and no one’s cashed it, for a $15 fee, you can fill out and submit Western Union’s Money Order Research Request. If you have the money order and haven’t filled it out, you can avoid the fee by writing it to yourself and cashing it or depositing it into your bank account.[2][11][12]
In Summary
You can cash checks and purchase money orders at some ShopRite stores, but because store owners set their own policies, it’s best to call ahead to confirm whether your local ShopRite offers these services.[2]
Fees and limits vary by location, but most stores charge about $1 per money order purchased or check cashed.[2]
You must provide a valid ID and enroll in check cashing services to cash checks, but you don’t need to enroll or show ID to buy money orders.[2]
Be sure to add any questions about ShopRite’s check cashing or money order policies below. You can also reply to others or share relevant comments.
