You can get a cashier's check from your checking account at your bank or credit union
A cashier's check is a check issued and may provide by the bank itself, not by you. The bank draws the money directly from your account, prints the check in its own name, and signs it with an authorized officer's signature. Because the bank stands behind it, a cashier's check carries far more weight than a personal check — landlords, title companies, and large sellers often require one.
To get one, you walk into a branch with your checking account, tell the teller you want a cashier's check, and provide the amount and the payee name (the person or business the check is written to). The teller verifies you have enough money in your account, withdraws it, and prints the check on the spot. The whole process takes 5 to 15 minutes. You pay a fee — usually $5 to $15 per check, though some banks waive it for certain account types.
You do not need to order ahead or wait for anything to arrive in the mail. If your bank has a branch near you, you can have the check the same day.
Key Takeaways
- A cashier's check is may provide by the bank and drawn from your checking account, making it far safer than a personal check for large transactions.
- You can get one in person at any branch by providing the amount, payee name, and your account information — no advance notice required.
- Most banks charge $5 to $15 per cashier's check, though some waive the fee for premium account holders.
- The bank withdraws the money from your account immediately, so you must have the full amount available when you request it.
- Some banks allow you to order a cashier's check by phone or online, but you still pick it up in person or have it mailed to you.
What happens to your money when you request a cashier's check
The moment the teller issues the check, the bank deducts the full amount from your checking account balance. That money is no longer yours to spend — it belongs to whoever holds the check. If you lose the check or it gets stolen before the payee cashes it, you will need to file a stop payment request and wait for the check to age (usually 90 days to six months, depending on the bank) before the bank returns the money to your account.
This is different from a personal check, where the money stays in your account until the check clears. With a cashier's check, the withdrawal is immediate and final. Make sure you have the exact amount available and that you are certain about the payee name before you hand over the money.
Getting a cashier's check without visiting a branch
Some banks and credit unions let you order a cashier's check by phone or through their online banking portal. You provide the amount, payee name, and delivery method. The bank then either mails it to you or holds it for pickup at a branch.
If you order by mail or online, the check takes longer to arrive — typically 3 to 7 business days for mailed checks. Pickup at a branch is faster, usually 1 to 2 business days. Call your bank to ask whether they offer remote ordering and what the timeline is. Not all banks do, and some charge extra for mailed delivery.
If you need the check urgently, going to a branch in person remains the fastest option.
Fees and account requirements
Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some credit unions charge less or nothing at all. Premium checking accounts — those with high minimum balances or monthly fees — sometimes include free cashier's checks as a benefit.
You do not need a special account type to get one. Any checking account works. If you are not sure what your bank charges, call the branch or check your account agreement. Some banks post their fee schedule online under "Checking Account Fees" or "Service Charges."
When a cashier's check is the right choice
Use a cashier's check when the payee needs proof that the money is real and available. Common situations include: paying a down payment on a house (title companies almost always require one), paying a landlord for a security deposit or first month's rent, paying for a car at a dealership, or sending money to someone you do not know well enough to trust with a personal check.
Do not use a cashier's check for everyday bills or payments to businesses that accept regular checks or electronic transfers. The fee adds up, and there is no reason to pay it when a free option exists. For bills, use your bank's bill pay service or set up an automatic transfer. For peer-to-peer money, use a digital wallet or bank transfer.
What to do if you lose a cashier's check or it is stolen
Contact your bank immediately and ask to file a stop payment request. Provide the check number, amount, payee name, and the date you received it. The bank will flag the check so it cannot be cashed.
You will likely have to sign a declaration stating that the check was lost or stolen, and the bank may ask you to wait a set period (often 90 days to six months) before refunding the money. This waiting period protects the bank in case the check shows up and someone tries to cash it. During that time, the money remains frozen in a holding account.
Once the waiting period ends and the check has not been cashed, the bank returns the money to your account. You can then request a replacement cashier's check if you still need to make the payment.
Cashier's checks versus other payment methods
| Payment Method | may provide by Bank | Time to Get It | Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cashier's Check | Yes | Same day (in person) | $5–$15 | Large payments, real estate, when seller demands proof of funds |
| Personal Check | No | Immediate | Free | Bills, everyday payments, people who know you |
| Bank Transfer (ACH) | No | 1–3 business days | Free | Paying bills online, peer-to-peer transfers |
| Wire Transfer | No | Same day or next day | $15–$50 | Urgent large payments, international transfers |
| Certified Check | Partially (bank verifies funds) | Same day (in person) | $5–$15 | When a personal check with bank verification is enough |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check if I do not have enough money in my account?
No. The bank will not issue a cashier's check unless you have the full amount available in your checking account at the time you request it. If you do not have enough, you will need to deposit money first or choose a different payment method.
Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?
No. A certified check is your personal check that the bank has stamped to verify the money is there. A cashier's check is issued by the bank itself. Cashier's checks are considered safer because the bank guarantees payment. Certified checks are less common and some businesses no longer accept them.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after I have received it?
Yes, but only if the payee has not cashed it yet. Contact your bank and file a stop payment request. You will likely have to wait 90 days to six months before the bank refunds the money, and you may have to sign a declaration. If the payee has already cashed it, you cannot cancel it.
Do I need to bring anything to the bank to get a cashier's check?
Bring your ID and your debit card or account number. Some banks may ask for additional information depending on the amount. Call ahead if you are requesting a very large cashier's check — some banks require advance notice for amounts over $10,000.
How long is a cashier's check good for?
Cashier's checks do not expire, but some banks and businesses may refuse to accept one that is more than six months old. If the payee says your check is too old, contact your bank and request a replacement. You will likely have to pay another fee.