Travelers have a variety of ways to cash checks in our area. Because of the volume of tourism in the Smokies, you may find that your check is welcomed here more easily than in other locales.
Local banks are accustomed to providing service to out-of-town guests. You will need adequate identification, including photo ID, so be sure to bring this along when you pack. If your home bank has a branch in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, that will expedite your process.
Many local businesses accept out-of-town checks with proper ID, but there is no uniform standard and each company will have its own guidelines in regards to accepting checks. If you know in advance that there are certain businesses you want to patronize, you should contact them in advance and inquire about their check cashing policies. You should not assume that any business accepts out-of-town checks without verifying it before you arrive.
There are a number of check cashing services located in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Most of these are "payday advance" services, where you write them a post-dated check and they give you cash, then they cash the check you wrote on the agreed-upon date. All charge a processing fee for this. If you plan on using one of these services, you will need to bring proof of employment and a recent paycheck stub, in addition to the usual photo identification.
