At Consumers National Bank, we take pride in serving our customers with respect, security, and reliable service. Recently, we’ve noticed a significant rise in non-customers visiting our branches to cash checks drawn on Consumers National Bank accounts. We understand this can be confusing, especially when individuals believe they should be able to cash a check simply because it’s from our bank. However, like many financial institutions, we have a clear policy: Consumers National Bank does not cash checks for non-customers.

This decision isn’t about turning people away—it’s about protecting our account holders, preventing fraud, and maintaining a safe environment for everyone in our branches. Here’s why this policy exists and what both check writers and check recipients should know.

Protecting Our Customers from Fraud

One of the primary reasons banks limit check-cashing for non-customers is fraud prevention. When we don't have a relationship with the person presenting the check, it's harder to verify identity and intentions.

• Checks can be stolen or altered. Criminals often steal checks from mailboxes and change the payee or amount.
• We don’t know the person at the counter. Without an existing account, we have no history or verification system to help confirm the legitimacy of the transaction.
• Checks can bounce. If a check is fraudulent or cannot be honored, the liability can fall on the bank or, ultimately, the check writer.

By limiting check cashing to customers only, we help ensure that funds are being accessed safely and legitimately.

Our First Priority: Serving Our Customers

Every minute our staff spends trying to verify and process a transaction for a non-customer is a minute taken away from serving our loyal account holders.

• Efficiency matters. Our teams are focused on helping Consumers Bank customers with their banking needs—from opening accounts to providing financial guidance.
• Branch safety. Unfortunately, we’ve had situations where non-customers, upon learning we cannot cash their check, have become upset or verbally aggressive. These confrontations put unnecessary stress on our employees and customers in the branch.

Maintaining a policy that prioritizes account holders allows us to run our branches more smoothly and keep our spaces welcoming and safe.

Common Misunderstandings—and What You Can Do Instead

We know there are misconceptions about bank policies, especially regarding check cashing. Here's some clarification:

• “But the check is drawn on Consumers Bank!” That’s true—but we are still under no obligation to cash a check for someone who does not have an account with us. Like most banks, we require individuals to establish a relationship with us before we provide access to funds.
• “Can’t I just pay a fee?” Some banks charge non-customers a fee to cash a check. At Consumers Bank, we do not offer this option, so there is no fee, because the service is not available to non-customers.
• “What should I do instead?” If you’ve received a check drawn on Consumers Bank and you don’t have an account here, your best option is to deposit it into your own bank account. This is the fastest and safest way to receive your funds.

A Better Solution for Everyone: Direct Deposit

If you're a business owner or organization that frequently pays individuals who do not bank with Consumers National Bank, consider setting up direct deposit. It’s fast, secure, and eliminates confusion about where and how checks can be cashed.

If you frequently receive checks, consider discussing a switch to direct deposit with your employer or payor. It’s more convenient—and reduces the need to visit a bank altogether.

We’re Here to Help—Our Customers

We know these situations can be frustrating. But this policy is in place to protect everyone involved—from the person writing the check to the employees working behind the counter. Consumers National Bank is committed to providing safe, secure, and excellent service to our account holders.

If you’re not yet a customer, we’d be happy to talk with you about opening an account so you can take advantage of all the services we provide—including the ability to cash checks and access other convenient banking tools.

Questions? Contact Us Today

If you have questions about our check cashing policy or would like help transitioning to direct deposit or digital banking, stop by any branch or contact us. Our team is here to support you with personalized solutions that meet your financial needs!