William Lipovsky
Tops Friendly Markets will cash payroll checks at most stores. The limit varies and there’s a $1 or $3 fee per check, depending on the location.[1][2]
Below, I detail the Tops check cashing policy, including limits, fees, how to cash a check, and what other money services Tops offers.
Tops Check Cashing Policy
Tops Friendly Markets cashes payroll checks at most locations. However, it’s best to contact your local store to confirm whether this service is available.[1][2]
Tops doesn’t cash personal checks, handwritten checks, two-party checks, third-party checks, traveler’s checks, or other types of checks outside of payroll checks.[1][2]
I called Tops Friendly Markets in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont to verify the details of the check cashing policy.
Limits and Fees
You can cash printed payroll checks at Tops for a fee of $1 or $3 per check, depending on the location.[1][2]
The limit also varies by location but generally ranges from $800 to $1,500. Individual stores may implement larger or smaller limits based on how much cash is on hand.[1][2]
Hours
You can only cash a check or use other money services during regular customer service desk hours, which are generally from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.[1]
Note that the exact customer service desk hours vary by location. It’s best to call your local Tops store to double check its hours before you visit.[1]
Check Cashing Process
To cash a check at Tops, head to the customer service desk. You’ll need to present your check and a valid, government-issued photo ID.[1]
An associate will verify the check and, once it passes verification, give you cash for the amount of the check (minus the fee).[1]
Other Money Services at Tops
In addition to check cashing, most Tops stores sell Western Union money orders of up to $500 for a fee of $1 per money order.[1][2]
You can also complete money transfers through Western Union at Tops. There’s no standard fee or limit for this service; Western Union determines fees and limits when a Tops associate inputs the payment information.[1]
Alternatives
If Tops doesn’t meet your check cashing needs or you’d like to compare other options, see the list of grocery stores that cash checks.
Tip: Some Tops Friendly Markets have Citizens Bank branches inside that are open seven days a week. If you have a Citizens Bank account, you can cash checks and handle your other banking needs there. This isn’t available in every location, however, so it’s best to call ahead and check.[1][3]
FAQ
No, you don’t need a Tops BonusPlus membership in order to cash a check at Tops.[1][2]
Tops uses Certegy, a third-party check verification company.[4]
You can find out why Certegy declined your check by calling (800) 237-3826 or using Certegy’s declined check lookup.[5][1][2] If you find that Certegy has inaccurate information about you, you can dispute it.[6] In the meantime, you’ll need to cash your checks at a place that doesn’t use Certegy.
In Summary
You can cash payroll checks at your local Tops for a fee of $1 or $3, depending on the location.[1][2]
Limits also vary by location and you’ll need to present a valid government-issued ID when cashing a check.[1][2]
Additionally, Tops offers other money services, such as Western Union money orders and money transfers.[1][2]
Feel free to ask any questions or add comments about check cashing at Tops below. You can also share personal experiences that may be helpful to others.
