Which Retail Stores Offer Cash Back Without Charging Fees?

The convenience of getting cash back at checkout has become increasingly important for many shoppers, especially in areas where bank access is limited. However, the landscape of retail cash back services is changing rapidly. While some stores continue to provide this service free of charge, an increasing number of retailers are now imposing fees for cash withdrawal at checkout.

The Rising Trend of Cash Back Fees at Retail Stores

According to research from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Americans are spending over $90 million annually just to access their own money at major retail chains. This shift represents a significant change from the traditional retail model where cash back services were universally free.

CFPB Director Rohit Chopra explained the underlying cause: “As bank branches close and out-of-network ATM fees rise, many people living in small towns no longer have access to a local bank where they can withdraw money for free. This has created conditions where retailers can now monetize what was previously a complimentary service.”

The economics behind this change are straightforward. For retailers, charging for cash back helps offset transaction processing costs. However, for consumers—particularly those in rural communities and low-income neighborhoods—these fees represent an additional financial burden. The CFPB’s analysis reveals that lower-income consumers and those with fewer banking options are disproportionately affected, as dollar stores and discounted retailers are typically located in underserved areas.

Major Retailers Now Imposing Cash Back Charges

Several significant retail chains have implemented cash back fees. Understanding which stores charge what can help you make informed decisions when shopping.

Family Dollar charges $1.50 for cash back withdrawals under $50. For budget-conscious shoppers seeking small amounts of cash, this fee represents a considerable percentage of the withdrawal amount.

Dollar Tree (owned by the same parent company as Family Dollar) has similarly introduced a $1 fee for cash back transactions under $50. This move reflects a broader strategy among discount retailers to generate revenue from previously complimentary services.

Dollar General has also adopted cash back fees, with charges ranging from $1 to $2.50 per withdrawal up to $40, depending on location. Given that Dollar General operates extensively in rural and low-income areas, these fees have a pronounced impact on communities with already limited financial service options.

Kroger, the nation’s largest grocery chain, has taken a different approach. At Kroger’s Harris Teeter stores, fees are 75 cents for up to $100 in cash back and $3 for withdrawals of $100 to $200. Other Kroger banners like Ralph’s and Fred Meyer charge 50 cents for cash back up to $100 and $3.50 for withdrawals between $100 and $300.

Where You Can Still Get Free Cash Back

For consumers seeking to avoid these emerging charges, several major retailers continue to offer free cash back services:

• Walgreens: Up to $20 in free cash back
• Target: Up to $40 available free of charge
• CVS: Up to $60 without fees
• Walmart: Up to $100 in free cash back
• Albertsons: Up to $200 without charges

The limitation, however, is that these fee-free stores may not have locations in smaller towns and rural communities that already struggle with inadequate banking infrastructure. This creates a challenging situation where those most in need of accessible cash services may have the fewest options.

As retail stores continue to reassess their cash back policies, consumers should carefully evaluate which retailers serve their financial needs best. Understanding the fee structures of stores that do offer cash back—both with and without charges—can help you make financially smarter shopping choices and avoid unexpected expenses.