A refined two-dimensional analysis method, taking into account the crack opening deformation, is proposed for the evaluation of stress distributions in transverse cracked cross-ply laminates. The interlaminar stresses which play an important role in laminate failure are evaluated using the concept of interface layer. A series expansion of the displacements is employed and the thermal residual stresses and Poisson`s effects in the laminate are taken into consideration in the formulation. The stress distributions are compared with finite element results. The proposed method .represents well the characteristics of the stress distributions. The through-the-thickness variation of the stress distribution is remarkable near the transverse crack due to the crack opening deformation. The interlaminar stresses have significant values at the transverse crack tip and the proposed analysis can be applied as a basis for the prediction of the induced delamination onset by using appropriate failure criteria.