Studies by consumer advocates have found that the poor can spend 4 to 10 times as much at check-cashing outlets as they would for basic accounts.

In the same period, check-cashing outlets tripled to 7,000, according to industry estimates.

And even where there are banks, customers at check-cashing outlets often do not know they have a lower-cost option.

Those without access to branches or machines often must use expensive check-cashing outlets that operate independently of commercial banks.

Afterward, the woman was forced to drive to a check-cashing outlet and cash a $662 payroll check, Captain Cea said.

Even check-cashing outlets - the businesses with the most to lose by the switch to electronic benefits - are moving to adapt to the new environment.

But critics say the programs are similar to the "payday loans" made by check-cashing outlets and other "fringe banks."

As a result, hundreds of customers stream daily through the doors of check-cashing outlets.

But check-cashing outlets can rarely afford such security.

Lottery Sales Those who have studied check-cashing outlets also say they play a role in discouraging saving by the poor.