Terminal enabled unbanked check processing

A method, comprising:

• presenting, by a terminal, an unbanked check cashing transaction option through a transaction interface to an unbanked consumer;
• receiving, by the terminal, government identification information from the unbanked consumer;
• imaging, by the terminal, a check provided by the unbanked consumer;
• processing, by the terminal, the government identification information and check image to verify identity and check validity;
• obtaining, by the terminal, an authorization from a bank associated with the check;
• and
• dispensing, by the terminal, at least a first portion of funds associated with the check to the unbanked consumer based on the authorization.

A terminal, comprising:

• a transaction interface configured to present unbanked check cashing options to consumers;
• media handling peripherals configured to image checks and read magnetic ink character recognition information;
• card reader peripherals configured to obtain government identification information;
• communication modules configured to interact with government verification services and bank authorization systems;
• receipt printing capabilities configured to print prepaid card information and promotional offers;
• and
• processing capabilities configured to coordinate unbanked check cashing transactions including identity verification, check validation, bank authorization, and dispensing of funds or prepaid cards to unbanked consumers.