How to order checks from your bank

Your bank will offer you checks when you open the account, either in person or online. Most banks let you order them right away through your account dashboard or by calling the number on the back of your debit card. You can usually choose from basic designs or pay extra for custom styles with your name and address printed on them.

The bank sends the order to a printer, and checks arrive by mail in seven to fourteen business days. Some banks charge $10 to $20 per box of 50 checks; others include the first box free. If you need checks faster, some banks offer rush printing for an extra fee, which can cut the wait to three to five business days.

You do not have to order through your bank. Third-party check printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart often charge less than banks do—sometimes half the price—and ship directly to your home. The tradeoff is that you lose the convenience of ordering through your bank's app, and delivery still takes a week or two.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order checks through your bank's website or app, or by calling customer service, and they arrive in seven to fourteen business days.
  • Bank-printed checks cost $10 to $20 per box, but third-party printers like Deluxe and Walmart often charge half that amount.
  • Rush printing is available from most banks for an extra fee if you need checks in three to five days instead of two weeks.
  • You need your account number and routing number to order, both of which appear on temporary checks your bank provides when you open the account.

What information the printer needs

To order checks, you will need your account number and routing number. Both appear on any temporary checks your bank gave you when you opened the account. If you do not have those, log into your bank's app or website and look for account details—the routing number is usually listed there too.

You will also need to confirm your name and mailing address exactly as you want them printed on the checks. Banks print what you tell them, so if your address is wrong, the checks will be wrong. Double-check spelling and zip code before you submit the order.

Temporary checks while you wait

Most banks give you temporary checks—sometimes called starter checks—when you open the account. These are plain, usually printed on regular paper, and have your account and routing numbers already on them. You can use them right away to pay bills or make deposits while you wait for your permanent checks to arrive.

Temporary checks work exactly like regular checks. Some people use them for months and never order permanent ones. If you prefer not to use them, you can pay bills online through your bank's bill pay feature instead, which is often faster and costs nothing.

Reordering checks later

Once you have ordered checks once, reordering is simple. Log into your bank's app or website, find the checks section, and place a new order. Most banks let you reorder the same design, or you can choose something different. The process is the same: seven to fourteen business days for standard delivery.

You do not have to wait until you run out. Many people order a new box when they have a few checks left, so they never run short. Some banks send you a reminder when your account shows you are running low.

When you need checks fast

If you need checks in a hurry, ask your bank about rush printing. Most offer it for $15 to $30 extra and deliver in three to five business days. Call the number on the back of your debit card and ask whether rush printing is available for your account.

If your bank does not offer rush printing, or the cost is too high, you can order from a third-party printer and sometimes pay for expedited shipping. Walmart and Costco both print checks and offer faster delivery options than standard mail. Compare the total cost—rush printing from your bank plus the check fee might cost more than ordering elsewhere with standard shipping.

Checks with images or custom designs

Most banks let you add a photo or custom image to your checks for an extra charge, usually $10 to $30 more per box. You upload the image through your bank's ordering system, and the printer adds it to the check design. This takes longer than standard checks—sometimes three weeks or more—so plan ahead if you want a custom design.

Third-party printers often have more design options and lower prices for custom checks than banks do. If you want a specific look, compare what your bank offers against what Deluxe or Vistaprint offer before you order.

What to do if checks do not arrive

If your checks do not arrive within the timeframe your bank promised, contact customer service. Have your order number ready—it was in the confirmation email when you placed the order. The bank can check the status with the printer and sometimes issue a replacement order if the first one is lost.

If checks arrive damaged or with errors, call your bank right away. Most banks will reprint them at no charge. Do not use damaged checks; they may not clear, and you could end up with overdraft fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my checking account before my checks arrive?

Yes. Your bank gives you temporary checks when you open the account, and you can use those immediately. You can also transfer money, pay bills online through your bank's website, use your debit card, or set up direct deposit. You do not have to wait for permanent checks to start using the account.

Do I have to order checks from my bank?

No. You can order from any third-party check printer. Your bank is convenient but often more expensive. Deluxe, Walmart, Costco, and Vistaprint all print checks and ship to your home. Make sure you have your account number and routing number before you order from anyone.

How much do checks cost?

Banks typically charge $10 to $20 per box of 50 checks. Third-party printers often charge $5 to $10 per box. Custom designs or rush printing add $10 to $30. Some banks include the first box free when you open the account, so check your welcome materials.

What if I make a mistake on a check?

Do not use it. Write "VOID" across the front in large letters and keep it with your records. If you have already mailed it, contact the person or business right away and let them know the check is void. You can then send a new check or pay another way.

Can I order checks online if I opened my account online?

Yes. Online banks let you order checks through your account dashboard the same way brick-and-mortar banks do. The process and timeline are the same. Some online banks charge more for checks or offer fewer design options, so compare before you order.