Where to order checks and what it costs

You can order checks from your bank, from third-party check printers, or sometimes directly through your bank's website. Your bank is the simplest route — call the number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch — but third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart are usually cheaper. A box of 200 checks from your bank typically costs $15 to $30, while the same box from a third-party printer might cost $5 to $15.

Some banks include a free box of checks when you open an account, and a few still offer free reorders for existing customers. Ask your bank directly whether you get free checks as part of your account type — it varies by bank and by account tier. If your bank charges, compare the price to ordering online before you decide.

Key Takeaways

  • Your bank can order checks for you by phone, in person, or online, but third-party printers are usually cheaper.
  • A box of 200 checks costs $15 to $30 from most banks, or $5 to $15 from discount printers like Costco or Walmart.
  • Checks take 7 to 14 business days to arrive by mail, or 1 to 3 business days if you pay for expedited shipping.
  • You need your account number and routing number to order, both printed on the bottom left of any check you already have.
  • Some banks offer free checks as part of certain account types, so confirm your bank's policy before paying.

How to order checks online or by phone

If you order through your bank's website or app, log in to your account and look for a "order checks" or "check services" link, usually under account settings or services. You will choose the style and quantity, confirm your account details, and pay. Most banks also let you order by phone — call the customer service number on your debit card and a representative will walk you through the options.

When you order from a third-party printer, you will need your account number and routing number. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you already have, printed in a specific order: routing number first (nine digits), then account number (usually 10 to 12 digits). If you do not have a check, log into your bank's website or call customer service to find these numbers.

How long checks take to arrive

Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days from the date you order. This means if you order on a Monday, your checks will likely arrive between the following Monday and the Monday after that. Expedited shipping, if your printer offers it, cuts this to 1 to 3 business days but costs extra — usually $5 to $15 more per box.

Plan ahead if you need checks for a specific date. If you are moving or changing banks, order at least two weeks before you need them. If you run out unexpectedly, ask your bank whether they can print temporary checks at a branch, or whether you can use your debit card or mobile payment for the transaction instead.

What information appears on your checks

Your checks will print with your name, address, account number, routing number, and bank name. The routing number and account number are printed in magnetic ink at the bottom so banks can read them automatically. Your bank may offer different check designs — solid colors, patterns, or images — at no extra cost or for a small upcharge.

Double-check the spelling of your name and the accuracy of your address before you confirm your order. Mistakes on checks can cause problems when you deposit them or when someone else tries to cash them. If you notice an error after ordering, contact the printer or your bank immediately — many will cancel and reprint at no charge if you catch it before the checks ship.

Reordering checks from the same printer

Once you have ordered checks, reordering is faster because the printer has your information on file. You can usually reorder online without logging into your bank account — just visit the printer's website, enter your routing and account number, and place a new order. Some printers let you save your design preferences so you do not have to choose again.

If you ordered from your bank the first time, you can reorder the same way — through their website, app, or by phone. If you want to switch to a cheaper printer for your next order, you can do that too. Your checks will work the same way regardless of where you ordered them, as long as the routing number and account number are correct.

What to do if you need checks urgently

If you need a check within the next few days and standard shipping will not work, call your bank and ask whether they can print a temporary check at a branch. Some banks will print one or two checks on the spot at no charge, though they may look different from your regular checks. Bring your ID and be ready to explain why you need it.

If your bank cannot print a temporary check, consider whether you can use a different payment method instead — a debit card, wire transfer, ACH transfer, or mobile payment app. Many businesses and individuals now accept these faster than checks anyway. If a check is truly necessary, paying for expedited shipping (1 to 3 business days) is usually faster than waiting for standard delivery.

Ordering checks for a joint account

If your account has two or more owners, you can order checks with any owner's name on them, or with both names printed together. When you order, specify whose name should appear. Some banks print both names automatically; others let you choose. If you are unsure, ask your bank which names are allowed before you place the order.

All owners of a joint account can order checks independently — you do not need permission from the other owner. However, if you want to prevent one owner from ordering checks, you will need to contact your bank and ask them to restrict check ordering on that account. This is a security measure some people use if they are concerned about unauthorized spending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is open and you have an account number. Some banks include a free box with new accounts, so ask before you pay. If you need checks immediately, ask whether the bank can print temporary checks at a branch while you wait for your regular order to arrive.

What if I order checks but then close the account?

Checks printed with a closed account number will not work — banks will reject them. If you close your account before checks arrive, contact the printer or your bank to cancel the order if possible. If the checks have already shipped, you can destroy them or contact your bank to see whether they can be reprinted with a new account number.

Do I have to order checks from my bank?

No. You can order from any third-party printer as long as they print your correct routing number and account number. Third-party printers are usually cheaper and offer more design options. Your checks will work the same way regardless of where you ordered them.

How many checks should I order?

A box of 200 checks typically lasts 6 to 12 months for most people, depending on how often you write checks. If you write very few checks, order one box. If you write many, order two boxes at once — the per-check cost is usually lower, and you will not run out as quickly.

Can I reorder the same check design?

Yes. If you ordered from your bank or a third-party printer before, they have your design on file. You can reorder the same style online or by phone without choosing a new design. If you want to change the design or colors, you can do that too — just select a new option when you place your order.