Does Walmart cash unemployment checks from NYS Department of Labor?
Hey everyone, I've been getting my unemployment benefits through the NYS Department of Labor debit card but it's been acting up lately and I can't access my funds. I heard some people mention cashing their unemployment checks at Walmart but I'm not sure if they actually do this? I tried calling a few locations but got different answers. Has anyone here successfully cashed their unemployment check at Walmart? What do I need to bring with me and are there any fees? Really need to access my money ASAP since my rent is due tomorrow.
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Norman Fraser
Yes, Walmart does cash unemployment checks but there are some requirements. You'll need valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID), the check must be made out to you exactly as your ID shows, and there's usually a $4 fee for checks under $1,000 and $8 for checks over $1,000. The check also needs to be dated within 180 days. Some locations might be stricter than others about unemployment checks specifically, so I'd call ahead to confirm.
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Fernanda Marquez
•Thank you! Do you know if they have any limits on how much they'll cash? My weekly benefit amount is $405 so I should be fine but just want to make sure.
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Kendrick Webb
wait you're still getting paper checks from NYS Department of Labor?? i thought everyone was on the debit card system now. maybe you should look into getting that set up instead, its way easier than dealing with check cashing places
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Fernanda Marquez
•I do have the debit card but it's not working right now - keeps declining even though I know there's money on it. That's why I'm trying to figure out backup options.
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Hattie Carson
•If your NYS Department of Labor debit card isn't working, you should contact KeyBank customer service at the number on the back of the card. They can check if there's a hold on your account or if the card needs to be replaced. Sometimes the magnetic strip wears out and needs a new card.
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Destiny Bryant
I've had issues reaching anyone at NYS Department of Labor when my card stopped working. Spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person at the unemployment office in like 10 minutes. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. Might be worth trying if you need to talk to someone about your card issues.
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Dyllan Nantx
•Is that one of those services that charges you money? I'm already strapped for cash and don't want to pay extra fees just to talk to someone who should be answering the phone anyway.
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Destiny Bryant
•I get being cautious about costs when money's tight. The way it worked for me was totally worth it though - saved me probably 6+ hours of trying to get through on my own and got my card issue resolved same day.
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TillyCombatwarrior
Just wanted to add that if Walmart doesn't work out, most grocery stores with customer service desks will cash unemployment checks too. I've used Stop & Shop before when I had similar issues. Also some gas stations do it but they usually have lower limits.
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Anna Xian
ugh the whole unemployment system is such a mess. between the website crashing all the time and cards not working, its like they dont want us to actually get our money. sorry youre dealing with this OP
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Fernanda Marquez
•Thanks, yeah it's really frustrating especially when you're already stressed about money. Hopefully the Walmart option works out for now.
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Mei Zhang
I work at a Walmart and can confirm we do cash unemployment checks, but definitely call ahead because some locations have different policies or might be out of cash on busy days. Also wanted to mention that if you have direct deposit set up with NYS DOL, you might be able to get emergency access to your funds through their website even if the card isn't working - sometimes you can do a one-time transfer to your bank account. Worth checking your online account to see if that's an option while you're figuring out the card issue.
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