How do I obtain a license or registration to operate a check cashing business in Georgia?
Significant changes to Georgia laws governing check cashing were made during the 2007 legislative session. These changes were primarily in regards to licensing, registration, and exemption qualifications as follows: License – A full service license is required if you charge a fee that exceeds the greater of $2.00 or 2% of the face amount of the check. Advertising is permitted ONLY by Full Service Licensees. Registration – A registration is required if you charge a fee, the fee DOES NOT exceed the greater of $2.00 or 2% of the face amount of the check, and you DO NOT advertise. Exemptions – An entity that cashes checks for which NO FEE is charged for the service is exempt from the provisions of Article 4A. Previous requirements for registrations and exemptions which were based on incidental retail sales and levels of income from check cashing activity have been eliminated. License requirements are now based on amount of fees charged and the advertising of check cashing services.
