How to Manage Finances Without a Checking Account

Many manage their finances mainly through their checking accounts. They deposit their earnings, both write checks and use debit cards to pay bills and other expenses. However, all this is doable without a checking account. You can cash checks at check cashing outlets, use money orders instead of written checks and prepaid credit cards.

Cashing Your Check

• 1

  Go to a local check cashing service center. Western Union and Wal-Mart are two national options. Local options include grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and more.

• 2

  Hand the clerk your signed check along with your identification. ID requirements may vary from one store to the next. Some locations will also want a second form of ID, such as a bill in your name or credit card.

• 3

  Count your cash to ensure you received the correct amount before leaving the counter.

Getting a Money Order

• 1

  Go to a business selling money orders. National sellers include Western Union, the United States Postal Service and Wal-Mart. Other local options include convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores and more.

• 2

  Tell the clerk how much money you need, and pay that amount, plus a small fee for the service.

• 3

  Fill out the money order and use it just like a check.

Get a Prepaid Debit Card

• 1

  Search for "prepaid credit cards" in your search engine and look for a card you like. Rush Card and Vision Premier are among the search results.

• 2

  Click to apply.

• 3

  Fill out the application.

• 4

  Click to submit.

• 5

  Wait for your card to arrive. You will be able to load money onto this card and use it to make purchases, just like a debit card linked to a checking account.