Check Cashers

Tennessee Code Annotated § 45-18-104(a) provides that, no person shall engage in, or in any manner advertise engagement in, the business of cashing payment instruments without first obtaining a license under this chapter. A separate license shall be required for each location from which the business is conducted.

Tennessee Code Annotated § 45-18-102(3) “Check casher” means a person who, for compensation, provides currency in exchange for payment instrument received.

Tennessee Code Annotated § 45-18-102(11) “Payment instrument” means a check, draft, warrant, money order, traveler's check, or other instrument for payment of money, whether or not negotiable. “Payment instrument” does not include an instrument that is redeemable by the issuer in merchandise or service, a credit card voucher, or a letter of credit. 

APPLICATION and REQUIREMENTS:

All Check Casher license applications, amendments, and renewal filings must be made through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS).  Click HERE to access NMLS. 

Click HERE to access the TN Check Casher License Requirements Checklist in NMLS.

ANNUAL REPORT
The annual report is due December 31, 2025.
Annual Report Form for CY 2024

Licensing Contact Information

Email: TDFI.licensing@tn.gov
Phone: (615) 253-6714
Fax: (615) 253-7794