You can order checks directly from your bank, from third-party check printers, or request temporary solutions while you wait for them to arrive
If you have a checking account but no checkbook, the fastest route depends on how soon you need the checks. Your bank can print and mail them to you, usually within 7 to 10 business days, though some banks offer expedited printing for a fee. Third-party check printers like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart often cost less and deliver in similar timeframes. While you wait, you can use your debit card, online bill pay, or mobile transfers for most payments—checks are now optional for most transactions, not required.
Key Takeaways
- Banks typically mail checks within 7 to 10 business days at no charge, but expedited options cost $10 to $25 and arrive in 2 to 3 days.
- Third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart usually cost less per check than ordering through your bank and deliver on similar timelines.
- You do not need to wait for physical checks to pay most bills—online bill pay, debit cards, and mobile transfers work for rent, utilities, and other regular payments.
- If you need a check urgently for a single payment, ask your bank about counter checks or a cashier's check as a temporary workaround.
Ordering checks from your bank
Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking portal to request checks. Most banks let you order through their website without speaking to anyone. You will need to confirm your account number and mailing address, and you can usually choose from several check designs and quantities (typically 25, 50, or 100 checks per order).
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days and costs nothing. If you need them faster, most banks offer expedited printing for $10 to $25, which cuts the timeline to 2 to 3 business days. Some banks charge per check for rush orders; others charge a flat fee. Ask the representative or check the website before you confirm the order.
Your bank will mail the checks to the address on file. If you have moved recently or want them sent somewhere else, update your address in your account settings before ordering, or call and request a different mailing address when you place the order.
Using third-party check printers
Companies like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and Vistaprint print checks and mail them directly to you. These printers often cost 20 to 40 percent less per check than ordering through your bank, especially if you order in bulk. A box of 100 checks from a third-party printer typically costs $15 to $30, compared to $25 to $40 through many banks.
To order, you will need your routing number and account number (both appear on any check or in your online banking portal). You can order online in minutes. Delivery usually takes 7 to 10 business days, similar to bank orders. Some third-party printers also offer expedited shipping for an additional fee.
One caution: verify that the printer you choose is legitimate and uses secure printing. Stick to well-known names like Deluxe (the largest check printer in the United States) or retailers you already know. Never order checks from an unknown website or email link, as this is a common fraud vector.
What to do while you wait for checks to arrive
Most payments that once required checks can now be made without them. Pay bills online through your bank's bill pay feature, which sends money directly to the payee and costs nothing. Transfer money to other people using Venmo, PayPal, or your bank's mobile app. Pay rent or large one-time expenses with a debit card, wire transfer, or ACH transfer (a bank-to-bank transfer that takes 1 to 3 business days).
If someone insists on a check—a landlord, a contractor, or a government agency—ask whether they accept electronic payment first. Many do. If not, you have two temporary options: ask your bank for counter checks (temporary checks printed on the spot at a branch, usually free or $1 to $2 each) or request a cashier's check (a check drawn on the bank's own account, which costs $5 to $15 and is may provide to clear).
Counter checks and cashier's checks as temporary solutions
A counter check is a temporary check your bank prints for you at the branch while you wait for your permanent checks to arrive. You walk in, ask for counter checks, and the teller prints them on the spot. They look different from your regular checks and may say "counter check" on them, but they work the same way. Most banks provide them free or charge $1 to $3 per check. This works if you need one or two checks urgently.
A cashier's check is a check the bank itself writes on your behalf, drawn from the bank's account rather than yours. It is may provide to clear because the bank has already set aside the money. Cashier's checks cost $5 to $15 each and are useful when the payee wants assurance the check will not bounce. You can request one at any branch or sometimes by phone, and it is usually ready within 24 hours.
Comparing cost and speed across your options
| Option | Cost | Timeline | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank standard order | Free | 7–10 business days | Planned purchases with no rush |
| Bank expedited order | $10–$25 | 2–3 business days | Urgent need but not same-day |
| Third-party printer | $15–$30 per 100 | 7–10 business days | Budget-conscious, bulk orders |
| Counter check | Free–$3 | Same day | One or two urgent checks |
| Cashier's check | $5–$15 | Same day or next day | Large payment, may provide clearance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order checks online if I do not have a checkbook yet?
Yes. Log into your online banking portal or call your bank's customer service line. You will need your account number and routing number, both of which appear in your online banking dashboard or on any deposit slip. You do not need an existing check to order new ones.
How do I find my routing number and account number to order from a third-party printer?
Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or statements. Your routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your bank's location; your account number is unique to your account. Both appear on any check or deposit slip. If you cannot find them online, call your bank and ask—they will provide both numbers over the phone.
What if I need a check today?
Visit your bank branch in person and ask for counter checks or a cashier's check. Counter checks are usually free or cost a few dollars and are printed on the spot. A cashier's check costs $5 to $15 and is ready within hours. Both work for same-day payments.
Do I really need physical checks, or can I pay everything without them?
You can pay most bills and expenses without checks using online bill pay, debit cards, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps. However, some landlords, contractors, and older businesses still prefer or require checks. It is worth having a small supply on hand even if you rarely use them.
Why would I order from a third-party printer instead of my bank?
Third-party printers cost significantly less per check—often 20 to 40 percent cheaper—and deliver on the same timeline. If you order checks regularly or in bulk, the savings add up. The trade-off is that you are ordering from outside your bank rather than directly from it, so make sure you use a reputable printer.