"Wealth is the parent of luxury and indolence, and poverty of meanness and viciousness, and both of discontent." - Plato

SavingAdvice.com Blog

Bridging the gap between saving money and investing


Join Now or Login

Kroger

Which Stores and Restaurants Are Open On Mother’s Day?

By Leave a Comment

open on mother's day

When a holiday falls on a Sunday, it’s easy to get confused about which businesses are open that day. So, which stores and restaurants are open on Mother’s Day? Just about all of them are, as it’s a busy day for retailers and restaurants alike.

Restaurants

Most restaurants do a lot of business on Mother’s Day—they’re open but you should expect to run into crowds. Many offer special deals and promotions like free meals for moms. So it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance if you plan to treat mom to a meal.

Retailers

Barring any extenuating circumstances, all retailers are open on Mother’s Day, so you still have time for last-minute gift purchases.

Places open for business include florists, candy and chocolate stores, discount stores, department stores, specialty stores, drug stores, and supermarkets ranging in size from locally-owned small businesses to large chains like:

  • Albertsons
  • Costco
  • CVS
  • Kroger
  • Publix
  • Rite Aid
  • Safeway
  • Target
  • Trader Joe’s
  • Walmart
  • Walgreens
  • Whole Foods

That said, it still doesn’t hurt to call ahead to see whether stores near you are open on Mother’s Day. You might be able to find out by phone how crowded it is in the store so you can plan accordingly.

Retailers also offer a variety of discounts on Mother’s Day — click here for 50+ freebies and deals to help you celebrate mom on Mother’s Day.

Gas Stations

All gas stations that normally operate on Sundays should be open on Mother’s Day.

Financial Institutions

Since Mother’s Day always falls on a Sunday, that means most banks, credit unions, and brokerages are typically not open. However, branches located within supermarkets that have Sunday hours of operations, are an exception. Otherwise, you can still use ATMs and online banking even when your preferred financial institution is closed, although the actual transactions won’t go through until the next business day.

Post Offices

Since Mother’s Day always falls on a Sunday, that means no post offices are open. However, some postal locations keep their lobbies open seven days a week so you can buy stamps from machines and drop letters into the chutes. It doesn’t hurt to call ahead to confirm whether a self-serve lobby near will be open on Mother’s Day.

Yes, All Stores and Restaurants are Open on Mother’s Day

Yes, every retailer and restaurant you can think of is likely open on Sunday for Mother’s Day. Most of what you may want to do that day should be possible except, perhaps, for avoiding traffic.

Readers, what sort of plans are you making for Mother’s Day this year?

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Click here to get started.

Read More

Kroger Check Cashing and Other Kroger Money Services

By Leave a Comment

Kroger check cashing

Kroger check cashing is just one of the services available through Kroger Money Services. Four additional services allow you financial convenience while you’re buying groceries.

What is Kroger Check Cashing?

If you’re interested in Kroger check cashing, then it’s probably because you’re already a Kroger grocery shopper. However, even if you don’t get your groceries at Kroger, you can take advantage of their check cashing services. Just go to the Money Services counter inside of your local Kroger store. There are more than 1900 locations across the United States, so it should be easy to locate one near you. They have a store locator at MoneyServices.com if you want to search online for a nearby location.

Once you have found the location nearest to you, then you can take advantage of Kroger check cashing. You simply bring your check to the Money Services counter. After meeting a few requirements, you can cash the check, and leave with your money in hand.

Requirements for Kroger Check Cashing

First of all, you need to have your check with you. Moreover, this needs to be a professional check. Kroger check cashing services are not available for personal checks, third-party checks, or starter checks. However, you can cash the following types of checks at Kroger:

  • Business-issued checks
  • Government checks
  • Insurance settlement checks
  • Payroll checks
  • Rebates and refunds issued by a business
  • Tax refund checks

If you receive a paycheck every week or two, then you might want to use Kroger check cashing services. You can take the professional payroll check to the counter and get your cash. Then you can turn around and use that cash to buy your family’s groceries. It is easy and convenient.

If you have your check, then the only other thing that you need is an ID proving that the check goes to you. Kroger’s check cashing service accepts a wide variety of IDs including:

  • Driver’s license
  • Matricula Consular ID
  • Military ID
  • Resident Alien ID
  • State-issued ID
  • Tribal Nation ID
  • US Passport

Finally, you need to know your social security number or tax identification number. You don’t need to bring proof of that with you. However, you should have it memorized in case you are asked for it.

Kroger Check Cashing Fees

Almost every business that cashes checks is going to a charge you a fee. Kroger check cashing fees are minimal. They are comparable or lower than check cashing fees from other companies. Although you don’t need to register for a Kroger Money Services account in order to cash checks at Kroger, you should sign up for their Shopper’s Card because it gives you a discount on check cashing fees.

Fees start at $3 for checks that are valued at $2000 or less. Checks that range from $2000.01 – $5000 are charged $5.50, presuming that you have a Shopper’s Card. Fees will be higher if you don’t sign up for a Shopper’s Card. It doesn’t cost anything so why would you miss out on the discount? Do note that these fees, and the check cashing limits, can vary from state to state. Therefore, you should ask for clarification at your local Kroger check cashing location before cashing your first check there.

Additional Kroger Money Services

Even if you already use Kroger check cashing services, you might not be aware of all of the other things that you can do with your money there. Kroger Money Services goes beyond the check cashing. Knowing what they offer can add convenience to your life.

Kroger Bill Pay Services

When you get your paycheck, you take it to Kroger to cash it. You might get your groceries at the same time. Why not also pay your bills before you leave the store? Kroger allows you to easily make bill payments for major services including your car, cell phone, credit cards, mortgage, and utilities. They even have same-day bill pay, allowing you to pay at the last minute without incurring late payment fees or getting services shut off.

There are more than 15,000 billers that you can pay through Kroger Bill Pay. You need to bring your bill and account information with you to the bank. You can pay using CheckFreePay, Fidelity Express, Firstech, Money Gram, or Western Union.

Kroger Money Orders

If you need to pay bills that aren’t offered through the bill pay services, you might want to use a money order. Kroger Money Services makes this task easy as well. They use Western Union to issue money orders. You give them the cash amount for the money order, along with enough to cover the fee. Fees and limits vary by state so check with your local Kroger Money Services desk for specifics. If you happen to also need to cash a money order, then you can do that at the same time.

Send and Receive Money with Kroger Money Services

You can send money to anyone anywhere in the world using the Western Union service through Kroger. You can send money internationally, directly to a person or as a deposit into their bank account. Moreover, you can send it within minutes or days, depending on how fast the person needs that cash. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • The person’s name and location
  • The exact amount for the person to receive
  • Some additional money to cover the transfer fee, which varies by location and amount
  • How and when the person will receive the money

Kroger Money Services will give you a 10-digit Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN). Tell that to the recipient. They give that number, amount, and their photo ID on their end to receive the money. Likewise, if someone wants to send you money, you can use this service to pick it up at Kroger.

Kroger Debit Card Cashing Services

There are certain types of debit cards that you can cash in. In other words, you get the card, and you take it to Kroger Money Services to exchange it for cash. Kroger is able to cash:

  • Government benefits cards
  • Payroll cards
  • PIN debit cards
  • Prepaid debit cards

In other words, you can basically use Kroger Money Services as though it is an ATM. You can withdraw up to $5000. Of course, there’s a fee for withdrawal, which is the same as the Kroger check cashing fee explained above. If you only need to get $300 or less in cash back, then you can actually do that right at the Kroger grocery checkout lane.

Clearly, you can do a lot more at Kroger than just get your groceries. Use Kroger check cashing and other Money Services for convenience. Make sure that you sign up for a Shopper’s Card to get the best rates. Furthermore, if you’re using any of the Western Union services through Kroger, then you might benefit by signing up for MyWU.

Read More:

Photo Credit: Mike Kalasnik

Here are the Kroger Money Services Hours of Operation

By Leave a Comment

Kroger money services hours

Whether you need a money order to make a payment, cash a check, or you need to send cash via Western Union, Kroger’s money center can help. Some money centers within stores don’t always hold the same hours as the store itself though. So, what are the Kroger money services hours of operation?

What Are Kroger Money Services Hours?

Typically, Kroger money services are open the same hours as your local store. Kroger hours may vary, depending on the location. For the most part, Kroger money services will open between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Stores generally close, along with the money services, at 10 p.m.

If your Kroger location is open 24 hours, money services will not be available 24 hours a day. You can expect them to be available the hours detailed above. If you have any specific questions about the hours, contact Kroger directly.

Services Available at Kroger Money Centers

People looking to utilize Kroger money services may want to know what all the store offers in terms of handling cash and other transactions. Most Kroger locations offer the following services:

  • Check cashing: Kroger will cash your payroll, government, tax refund, business, and insurance settlement checks up to $5,000 (no started, personal, or third-party checks). Shoppers with a Kroger Shopper’s Card will also get a deal on check-cashing fees. For checks up to $2,000, there is a $3 charge. Checks between $2,000.01 and $5,000 will cost $5.50 to cash. You’ll need identification such as a valid driver’s license or state ID, military ID, Matricula Consular ID, or Resident Alien ID.
  • Pay bills: You can pay your electric, gas, cable, and cell phone bill at Kroger if your carrier is one of the 15,000 billers the grocer works with. Same-day payment is available for some bills but not all. If you don’t see your biller on the list, you can ask an associate for help. You’ll also receive discounts on these services with your Shopper’s Card.
  • Card cashing: Use your debit card at Kroger Money Services and get cash back. You can get up to $5,000 back for the same fees associated with cashing a check. Another perk with this service is that you can take out the exact amount you need (down to the penny).
  • Money orders: You can also purchase money orders at Kroger, up to $1,000. If you need more than that, you simply buy more than one money order – fees start at $0.69 per money order.
  • Send and receive money: Kroger Money Services also works with Western Union. You can transfer money to more than 200 countries worldwide within minutes or choose Next Day delivery. If you need to collect a transfer, you can also do that at Kroger.

As always, if you have any questions about the services or hours, you can call your local Kroger directly for more information.

Photo: Social Woodlands

Read More

Last Minute Groceries? Check Here for Kroger Store Hours and Holiday Schedule

By 1 Comment

Kroger store hours
With more than 2,000 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia, Kroger stores offer grocery shopping, retail, convenience stores, jewelry stores, pharmacy services, and more. Because of the wide variety of options, it’s perfect for the person on-the-go. However, before you head out, make sure you are aware of Kroger store hours and its holiday schedule.

Kroger Store Hours

Many Kroger locations are open 24/7. Although the non-24/7 stores have a little less consistent operating hours among varying locations, they do still offer longer hours throughout the week.

Store hours tend to be (give or take):

  • 5 a.m. – midnight or 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.

The pharmacy hours also vary, but are typically:

  • Monday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Wednesday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Thursday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Saturday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Kroger Holiday Hours 2018

You just never know what last minute items you might need for your Thanksgiving feast, or perhaps you need to pick up your prescription from the pharmacy. In those particular situations, having a store open on holidays is extremely helpful. So, what are the Kroger holiday hours and schedule? Will they be open Thanksgiving Day?

The answer is yes. Kroger will be open on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2018.

However, keep in mind that some stores may have limited store hours due to the holiday. For the most part, the chains operating under a 24/7 schedule will maintain these hours and others that are not will generally be open from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kroger will be open Thanksgiving Day with pharmacy hours as well. Some pharmacy hours may be extended while others will be reduced for the day. So, call your local Kroger store to double check before making your plans to stop there as each individual store may vary.

Other Holidays

  • Kroger will be open on Black Friday.
  • Kroger will be open Christmas Eve.
  • Kroger will be closed on Christmas Day.
  • Kroger will be open New Years Eve.
  • Kroger will be open New Years Day.

Specials and Online Options

If you are interested in the sales Kroger may have during this week and the next, you can check the store locator and search on their website. When you create an account on their site, you can download their app for special coupons and other benefits like managing your prescriptions. Not to mention, Kroger offers a grocery store checklist tool that you can use just in time for Thanksgiving shopping.

Are you a fan of Kroger? Do you plan on shopping there for the holidays?

(Photo Credit: Matthew Rutledge)

What Time Does Kroger Open?

By Leave a Comment

what time does kroger open
 

Kroger is a Cincinnati-based grocery store chain that is considered America’s most underrated grocery store.  In 2014 the company generated $109 billion in sales in and reported its 45th straight quarter of same-store sales increases.  With over 2,700 locations you may be wondering: what time does Kroger open?

The History of Kroger

The grocery chain began in 1883 with Barney Kroger’s life savings totaling $372 and a motto of “Be particular. Never sell anything you would not want to buy yourself.” Today, Kroger is a billion-dollar business and has stores in 35 states. The company still stays true to Barney Kroger’s roots of providing quality for profitability.

The stores hold a wide variety of merchandise in an effort to serve customers looking for a one-stop-shop solution, much like their competitor, Walmart. They also stock their shelves with grocery items ranging from basic staples to organic fruits and vegetables as well as hot meals ready to eat.

But, what continues to help Kroger’s be successful is its willingness to change. The innovative company was the first grocery retailer to test an electronic scanner in 1972. Kroger continues to use the latest technology to help improve the customer experience, which is one of the reasons why they are able to claim to be one of the largest companies in America today.

What Time Does Kroger Open?

Kroger opens at 6:00 AM. With Kroger’s attention to customer service, it is hard to not want to be one of the first ones in to get your grocery shopping done. So, what time does Kroger open? Times can vary based on location, but most stores open and close the same time during the week.  See below.

Monday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Some Kroger locations do close much earlier  – at 7:00 PM.   In addition, some stores have different hours, specifically hours for Kroger In-store pharmacies can differ. Because of this inconsistency, it is always best to check your local store hours to be sure.

There are, however, certain locations with 24-hour access. Unfortunately, there is no known standard to determine which stores throughout the country will be open 24/7 or not. Those that do have 24-hour access will usually also have ATMs and coin machines also available all night long. This can especially come in handy for those on a road trip, whether for work or leisure.

To check the store hours for a Kroger near you, you can use the Store Locator tool on their website here.

For more of our great articles consider reading:

Photo credit: Janet Brott

Does Kroger Accept Apple Pay?

By 3 Comments

Does Kroger Accept Apple Pay
Mobile payments are the new hottest thing. Samsung launched a commercial showing its phone app making it possible to pay for everything though your mobile phone (no matter where you were). The commercial even showed a customer at a small mom-and-pop store using his mobile app (how cool).

Well, that made many people want to start trying to use mobile payments for everything. After all, it makes it so that you don’t have to carry so much. Not everywhere is accepting these payments though. So, what about one of America’s favorite grocers? Does Kroger accept Apple Pay?

Forms of Payment at Kroger

Like many other grocers Kroger accepts all major debit and credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa). The company also accepts cash and check as well as some EBT and WIC payments (where applicable). What hasn’t been clear to too many people is whether or not Kroger accepts Apple Pay.

Does Kroger Accept Apple Pay?

No. Kroger does not accept Apply Pay?

Kroger is a parent company to quite a few of America’s favorite stores, none of which accept Apply Pay.  The list of Kroger stores includes Kroger, Barclay Jewelers, Baker’s, City Market, Copps, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Foods Co., Fred Meyer, Fred Meyer Jewelers, Fresh Eats, Fry’s Food and Drug, Gerbes, Jay C, King Soopers, Littman Jewelers, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Owen’s, Pay Less Supermarkets, Pick ‘n Save, QFC, Ralphs, Smith’s Food and Drug, Turkey Hill Minit Markets, Kwik Shop, Loaf ‘N Jug, Quik Stop, Tom Thumb Food Stores and Turkey Hill Experience, according to the Kroger website.  Although the company owns so many stores, it still does not accept Apple Pay.

Kroger customers don’t mind though. They continue to shop there for great prices and friendly atmosphere. If Kroger doesn’t accept Apple Pay, what stores do?

What Stores Accept Apple Pay?

Kroger may not accept Apple Pay but there are plenty of places you can use the mobile form of payment. Thirty-five percent of merchants in the United States accept Apple Pay today. Do the stores you shop at accept this form of payment?

  • Does Walmart accept Apple Pay? No. You cannot use Apple Pay at Walmart.
  • Can you use Apple Pay at Target? Target will accept Apple Pay payments and other mobile payments as well.
  • Does Sam’s Club accept Apple Pay? You cannot use Apple Pay at Sam’s Club. Like its sister company (Walmart), Sam’s Club won’t be accepting any other forms of mobile payment right now either.
  • Does Aldi accept Apple Pay? Being a store known for its discounts, it’s not a huge surprise that Aldi is not currently accepting Apple Pay.
  • Can you use Apple Pay at a convenience store? Depending on the store, some locations may accept Apple Pay.
  • Does Starbucks accept Apple Pay? Starbucks has accepted Apple Pay practically from the day the app launched. The company is continuing to accept Apple Pay today.

Places That Accept Apple Pay

If you’re like many others you want to use Apple Pay to see what the experience is like. There are so many retailers that do not accept  Apple Pay but what about the ones who do? Here are a few popular places that are accepting Apple Pay:

  • Apple Store
  • BJ’s Wholesale Club
  • Chili’s Grill & Bar
  • KFC
  • McDonald’s
  • Panera Bread
  • PetSmart
  • RadioShack
  • Sephora
  • SUBWAY
  • Walgreens
  • Whole Foods Market

Apple Pay isn’t available everywhere yet but more and more retailers are beginning to offer it. With Samsung Pay making mobile payments even more popular the demand for Apple Pay will grow in the years to come.

Have you used Apple Pay at any of these locations (or others)? We’d like to know about your experience!

Photo: Let’s Talk Payments

You may also enjoy reading: