First, you're not a moron.

Unfortunately, this seems to be a recent thing for them (see link)
http://blogs.wickedlocal.com/massmarkets/2011/01/15/citizens-bank-expands-its-check-cashing-fee-for-non-customers-who-redeem-citizens-checks/#axzz1oHaDuh81

It is part of a growing trend (a trend in the last 20 yrs) of banks increasing fees or services for fees. Banks only earn money is a few ways (1) loans (2) investments (3) fees. Loans and investments are risky. Fees have no risk involved. Banks have been increasing their fees for years, rather than actually learn how to manage maturity gap and make money the old fashioned way. While some fees are legitimate, some are excessive and a little heavy-handed.

Contrary to what one rather rude poster said earlier, not all banks charge fees for cashing checks drawn on their bank for non-customers. In your case, it's better to take it to your own bank. Check out Massachusetts Bank On It program for state chartered banks

excellent post jonathon!

Slim, if the poster had a bank account to start with he would not be here whining about NOT BEING A CUSTOMER. Duh.

I received a check from an individual drawn on Citizens Bank. When I went to cash the check at Citizens Bank, I was told that I would be charged a fee of $7.00 to cash a check drawn on Citizens Bank because I DID NOT HAVE AN ACCOUNT WITH CITIZENS BANK!!! I spoke to the manager and stated that the person who sent me the check instructed their bank (Citizens) to "Pay to the order of" me. They refused to cash the check without charging ME the $7.00 fee. This is a complete rip-off!! I would suggest that you boycott Citizens Bank until this unfair and possibly illegal fee is removed.

So in your mind, not provided services for free is illegal?

I swear people are stupid to the extreme. Listen up moron, every bank charges noncustomers a fee to cash their checks. Even YOUR own bank. Get over it and cash the check at your own bank.

Excellent review. $7 is a bit excessive. I would go with a credit union in the future.