Best way to cash a check in UK w/out a bank account?

Hello, sorry if this has been posted but I couldn't find it in a search...

I have just arrived and am in the process of putting my name on everything, so I don't have proof of residence to open an account. However, I recieved a lovely 50 pound check for my birthday from the in-laws. What is the best way (with minimal fees) for me to cash it? Should I just sign it over to my husband and have him do it for me?

Hello, sorry if this has been posted but I couldn't find it in a search...

I have just arrived and am in the process of putting my name on everything, so I don't have proof of residence to open an account. However, I recieved a lovely 50 pound check for my birthday from the in-laws. What is the best way (with minimal fees) for me to cash it? Should I just sign it over to my husband and have him do it for me?

Is the MIL check from a bank in the UK. I think so because you said £'s. I would go to the bank it is drawn on and use your passport for identification.

Is the MIL check from a bank in the UK. I think so because you said £'s. I would go to the bank it is drawn on and use your passport for identification.

Doesn't work like that...I tried that late last year, my MiL banked @Barclay's like my husband so I took it to the bank with my ID and they wouldn't cash it with out me having an account and them depositing the funds into that account. I was told to take it back, have it made out to my husband if we wanted the money or ask my MiL for cash...i just ripped up the cheque. It wasn't worth the hassle for £20.

There are "Money Shops" which cash cheques for a fee plus a percentage... They say

All you need to be is over 16 and provide proof of ID and address.

I have never used one and I don't know if the rate they would apply to a £50 cheque would be prohibitively high... I imagine they are like Check'n'Go etc in the USA

A well known chain is Money Shop, there are probably others.

http://www.moneyshop.tv/cheque-cashing/

They also offer "payday loans" with frightening APRs around 2000% so I would imagine they will take a nice fat chunk...

[Edit] I saw this in a money forum

he Money Shop asked for £70 approx to cash a £1000 cheque instantly.