Best Places to Get Cash Back: Which Retailers Will and Won't Charge You

In an era where traditional bank branches are disappearing faster than ever, knowing where to find affordable places to get cash back has become essential for many Americans. What was once a free, convenient service at checkout has evolved into a complex landscape where some retailers now impose charges while others remain free, creating a significant disparity for consumers seeking accessible cash withdrawal options.

The Rising Cost of Cash Withdrawal at Major Retailers

The shift toward charging for cash back services marks a notable change in retail banking practices. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Americans are currently spending over $90 million annually just to access their own money at large retail chains. This trend is particularly concerning in rural areas and low-income communities where bank access is already limited.

CFPB Director Rohit Chopra explained the underlying dynamics: “Many communities have lost their local bank branches, creating a situation where retailers who operate there can now charge fees for services that were previously free. Dollar stores and other retailers are capitalizing on this reality.”

Understanding Why Stores Started Charging for Cash Back

Several economic factors have driven retailers to monetize cash back services. As out-of-network ATM fees increase and financial institutions continue closing branches, retailers have recognized an opportunity to generate revenue from a service that costs them money to operate.

For consumers, particularly those in underserved communities, these fees represent yet another financial burden. The CFPB’s research shows that lower-income households and those with fewer banking options are disproportionately affected by these charges, since dollar stores—which are now charging—are typically located in areas with limited banking infrastructure.

Retailers That Now Charge Fees for Cash Transactions

Family Dollar has implemented a $1.50 fee for cash back amounts under $50, according to CFPB data. For shoppers needing small withdrawals, this fee can consume a significant portion of the cash received.

Dollar Tree, owned by the same parent company as Family Dollar, charges $1 for cash back under $50. This policy reflects a broader industry trend among dollar store chains to convert previously free services into revenue streams.

Dollar General operates variable fees depending on location and withdrawal amount, with CFPB mystery shopping from 2022 revealing charges between $1 and $2.50 per withdrawal up to $40. Given that Dollar General stores predominate in rural and low-income areas, these fees hit hardest where banking access is already scarce.

Kroger, America’s largest grocery chain, has implemented tiered fee structures. At Harris Teeter locations, the charge is 75 cents for withdrawals of $100 or less, and $3 for larger withdrawals up to $200. At other Kroger-branded stores like Ralph’s and Fred Meyer, fees run 50 cents for up to $100 in cash back and $3.50 for withdrawals between $100 and $300.

Fee-Free Places to Get Cash Back: Your Best Options

If you prefer to avoid extra charges when withdrawing cash, several major retailers still offer this service at no cost:

• Walgreens: Up to $20 cash back
• Target: Up to $40 cash back
• CVS: Up to $60 cash back
• Walmart: Up to $100 cash back
• Albertsons: Up to $200 cash back

However, availability varies significantly by region. Smaller towns and rural communities may lack access to these free cash back places, leaving residents with limited options beyond the retailers currently charging fees.

Making Smart Choices About Where to Withdraw Cash

For consumers in areas with limited banking access, comparing your available places to get cash back has become an essential money management skill. Understanding both the fee structures at different retailers and withdrawal limits helps you make informed decisions about which locations offer the best value for your specific needs.

The landscape of cash withdrawal options continues to shift as traditional banking infrastructure changes. By knowing which retailers charge and which don’t, you can strategically choose your cash back locations to minimize fees and maximize convenience.