Walmart tests check cashing in R.I.

By PBN Staff

BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Walmart will gauge demand for check cashing services in Rhode Island in the new year by offering cash tax refund checks from January 2 through April 17 for a 50 cent fee.

The retailer has check cashing services in 47 states, but not in Rhode Island, New Jersey and New York.

“We hope this test will not only help us learn about Rhode Island shoppers’ appetite for Walmart check cashing, but also help them keep a little more of their tax refund cash in this tough economy,” Daniel Eckert, head of financial services.

There are nine Walmarts in Rhode Island: Coventry, Cranston, Newport, North Kingston, North Smithfield, Providence and Warwick.

Walmart’s check cashing services were discussed in this November New York Times article, "High Bank Fees Give Wal-Mart a Money Aisle."