Does Money Tree Use Certegy?
Money Tree does use Certegy (now part of FIS) for check verification services at many of its locations. This means when you try to cash a check at Money Tree, Certegy’s system checks the check number, amount, and your ID against a national database to approve or decline the transaction.
What is Certegy and why does it matter for check cashing?
Certegy is a company that helps stores like Money Tree decide whether to cash a check. It used to be its own business but now is part of FIS (Fidelity National Information Services). When you walk into Money Tree with a check, the cashier enters information into a computer. That computer sends the details to Certegy’s database. The database checks for past bounced checks, overdrafts, or fraud reports linked to your ID or bank account. If everything looks good, the system says “approve.” If there’s a problem, it says “decline.”
This matters because it protects both you and Money Tree. You don’t want to cash a bad check that later bounces. Money Tree doesn’t want to lose money on fake or unpayable checks. Certegy makes the process fast and fair.
Does Money Tree use Certegy for check verification?
Yes, Money Tree uses Certegy (now FIS) as one of its main check verification services. In most states where Money Tree operates, the company relies on Certegy to approve or decline checks. However, rules can vary by state and even by individual store. Some locations may also use a backup service called TeleCheck or CrossCheck when Certegy is not available. If you’re unsure, just ask the cashier what system they use. But the short answer is: yes, Certegy is heavily used at Money Tree.
Money Tree is a chain of check cashing and payday loan stores. They cash payroll checks, government checks, tax refund checks, and personal checks. To cash those checks safely, they need a reliable check verification service. Certegy gives them real-time information about your check-writing history. If your ID or account comes back with a flag, they might still cash the check at a higher fee or decline it.
How does Certegy's check verification system work at Money Tree?
When you present a check at Money Tree, here’s the step‑by‑step process:
- The cashier scans or enters your check number, amount, and your driver’s license or state ID number.
- That information is sent instantly to Certegy’s database.
- Certegy checks three things: your ID (is it valid or reported lost?), your bank account (has it had lots of bounced checks?), and the check itself (is it reported stolen?).
- If all three pass, Certegy returns an approval code. Money Tree then gives you cash minus a small fee.
- If one fails, Certegy returns a decline code. The cashier will tell you why – usually a previous unpaid check or too many checks written in a short time.
This whole process takes about 10 to 15 seconds. It’s designed to be quick and accurate.
What happens if Certegy declines your check at Money Tree?
If Certegy says “no,” don’t worry – there are still options. Money Tree may offer to cash the check anyway, but with a higher fee. This is called a “manual override.” The store takes on more risk, so they charge more. You might also be asked to provide additional ID or a phone number for a verification call.
Another common option: use a different form of payment. Money Tree often cashes money orders or prepaid card loads without running them through Certegy. If you have a pre‑printed payroll check that’s been declined, you could ask your employer to issue a direct deposit instead. Or you could try another check cashing store that uses a different system like TeleCheck – sometimes a decline at one doesn’t mean a decline at another because the databases are separate.
Here’s a quick checklist if your check gets declined:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ask the cashier the exact reason for the decline (e.g., “check writer on file” or “ID issue”). |
| 2 | If it’s a simple error (wrong ID number entered), ask them to retry carefully. |
| 3 | If the decline is due to a previous bounced check, pay that debt (it’s listed in Certegy’s system) and then come back. |
| 4 | Consider cashing the check at the bank it’s drawn on – that bank won’t use Certegy. |
| 5 | Use a prepaid debit card or mobile check deposit app as a backup. |
Are there alternatives to Certegy that Money Tree might use?
Yes, Money Tree sometimes uses TeleCheck or CrossCheck as either a primary or backup system. TeleCheck is very similar to Certegy – it also checks IDs and bank accounts. CrossCheck is more common for payroll checks from big companies. If you’ve been declined by Certegy at one Money Tree, you might be approved at another location that uses TeleCheck instead.
It’s also possible that a Money Tree location will use an in‑house system for small checks under $100. But for any check over a few hundred dollars, they almost always use a national service like Certegy. The key is to ask politely: “Which check verification company do you use?” The cashier can usually tell you right away.
For people who get declined often, it can help to build a positive check‑writing history. That means not bouncing checks, keeping your account open and active, and only writing checks when you have the money. You can also request a copy of your Certegy report (similar to a credit report) to see what’s on it.
How to check if your Money Tree location uses Certegy
The easiest way is to call the store before you go. Ask: “What check verification service do you use?” They will say “Certegy” or something else. If they say “FIS,” that’s the same company – FIS owns Certegy. You can also look at the receipt from a past visit. If you see a line that says “Certegy” or “FIS,” that’s your answer.
Another clue: the store may display a small sign near the cashier counter that lists the companies they work with. Certegy is often listed among them. You can also check Money Tree’s website or call their customer service line and ask.
If you use Money Tree often, get to know the cashiers. They can tell you which system they use and even give you tips on how to avoid declines. For example, if you always use the same ID and bank account, Certegy may learn to trust you over time and approve faster.
Common questions about Certegy and Money Tree
Q: Can Certegy see my bank balance?
A: No. Certegy does not check your bank balance. It only knows whether you’ve bounced checks or had identity problems in the past. So having a low balance won’t cause a decline unless you’ve written bad checks before.
Q: How long does a Certegy flag last?
A: Usually up to five years for unpaid bounced checks. If you pay off the debt, the flag may be removed sooner. You can contact Certegy (FIS) directly to resolve issues.
Q: Does Money Tree use Certegy for payday loans too?
A: Generally no. Payday loans are handled differently – they verify your income and job, not your check‑writing history. Certegy is mainly for check cashing.
Q: What if I move to a different state? Will Certegy still follow me?
A: Yes, Certegy’s database is national. A flag from Florida will show up in California. But sometimes flags are regional, so it’s worth trying.
Q: Can I get a copy of my Certegy report?
A: Yes, under federal law you can request a free copy once a year. Contact FIS at 1‑800‑237‑0080 or visit their website. This can help you see what’s causing declines.
If you frequently cash checks, consider using a checkbook register or a simple ledger to track your checks. Keeping a clear record helps you avoid accidental overdrafts. An affordable check register can make a big difference in staying organized.
For protecting your checking account from fraud, a cross‑cut shredder is a good investment. Shred old checks, bank statements, and receipts. Here’s a reliable shredder for home use that can handle multiple sheets.
If you want to build a better relationship with check cashing stores, a personal finance book can help you learn how to manage your money and avoid fees. Check out this beginner‑friendly finance book that explains budgeting and check usage in plain language.
Finally, a prepaid debit card can be a great alternative if you keep getting declined. Many prepaid cards let you deposit checks via mobile app and avoid check cashing stores altogether. Here’s a prepaid card with low fees that works well for everyday spending.
Money Tree absolutely uses Certegy (FIS) as its main check verification tool. Knowing that can help you prepare before you walk in. Bring your ID, a recent bank statement if possible, and be ready to answer questions. If you’ve had issues in the past, check your Certegy report first. And remember, you always have other options – another store, the check’s issuing bank, or a mobile deposit app. Stay informed and you’ll save time and money.