What a cashier's check is and why you need one
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, not yours. The bank guarantees the funds are there because it has already taken the money from your account. This makes it safer than a personal check for large transactions—the recipient knows it will not bounce.
You need a cashier's check when someone will not accept a personal check or when the transaction is large enough that the other party wants proof the money exists. Common reasons include down payments on a house, closing costs, security deposits, or paying a contractor who demands may provide funds.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your bank in person with your ID and the exact amount you need; most banks do not issue cashier's checks online or by phone.
- The bank withdraws the money from your account immediately, so you must have the full amount available.
- Cashier's checks typically cost between $5 and $15 per check, though some banks waive the fee for account holders.
- You receive the check the same day in most cases, though some banks may require 24 hours notice for very large amounts.
- Write down the check number and amount before you leave the bank so you can track it if it gets lost or stolen.
Steps to request a cashier's check at your bank
Go to your bank branch during business hours with a valid photo ID. You do not need an appointment for a routine cashier's check, but calling ahead is wise if you need one outside normal hours or want to confirm the bank has the funds on hand.
Tell the teller you want a cashier's check. Have ready the exact dollar amount, the name of the person or business the check should be made out to, and any account number or reference information the recipient needs. The teller will confirm you have that amount in your account and deduct it immediately.
Review the check before you leave the bank. Verify the payee name is spelled correctly, the amount matches what you requested, and the date is today's date (or the date you specified). Ask the teller for the check number so you have a record.
What happens to the money when you get the check
The bank removes the full amount from your account the moment you receive the check. This is different from a personal check, where the money stays in your account until the recipient deposits it. You cannot spend that money again—it is already committed to the cashier's check.
If the check is lost, stolen, or never cashed, you will need to file a claim with the bank to get the money back. This process can take weeks or months, so keep the check number and receipt safe.
Fees and timing
Most banks charge $5 to $15 per cashier's check. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. Ask the teller whether your account qualifies for a waived fee before you pay.
You typically receive the check the same day. Some banks may ask for 24 hours notice if the amount is very large (over $10,000) or if you do not have an established account with them. Call your branch ahead of time if you are in a hurry or need a check for an unusually large amount.
If your bank cannot issue a cashier's check
If you do not have a bank account or your bank is closed, you can get a cashier's check from most credit unions if you are a member. Non-members can sometimes purchase one for a higher fee.
Some check-cashing services and money transfer businesses (like Western Union or MoneyGram locations) also issue cashier's checks, though the fee is usually higher than at a bank. Call ahead to confirm they have the amount you need in stock.
Protecting yourself when you have a cashier's check
Treat a cashier's check like cash once you have it. Write down the check number, amount, and date before you leave the bank. Keep the receipt the teller gives you in a safe place.
Do not sign the back of the check until you are ready to hand it to the recipient. If it is lost or stolen before you sign it, the bank can stop payment and reissue it to you. Once you sign it, anyone who has it can cash it.
If the check is lost or stolen before the recipient cashes it, contact your bank immediately with the check number. The bank can place a stop payment on it and issue a replacement, though this process may take several weeks.
What to do if the recipient says they never got the check
Ask the recipient to check with their bank—the check may have been deposited and is still clearing. Cashier's checks typically clear within one to three business days, though some banks take longer.
If the recipient confirms they never received it, contact your bank with the check number and ask them to research whether it was cashed. If it was cashed by someone other than the intended recipient, report it as fraud. If it was never cashed, the bank can place a stop payment and issue a new check.
Keep copies of all correspondence with the recipient and your bank. If a dispute arises about whether the check was delivered, these records protect you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check without going to the bank in person?
Most banks require you to visit in person. Some banks may allow you to request one by phone or online if you have an established account, but you still have to pick it up at a branch or have it mailed to you. Mailing adds several days to the process.
What if I do not know the exact amount yet?
You can request a cashier's check for a round amount and ask the recipient to return it if they do not need all of it. Alternatively, wait until you know the exact amount before going to the bank. Some recipients will accept a personal check if the amount is still being finalized.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after I get it?
Yes, but only if you have not signed it and the recipient has not cashed it. Return to your bank with the check and receipt, and they can place a stop payment and refund the money to your account. Once it is cashed, you cannot cancel it.
What if the check is made out to the wrong person?
You cannot change the payee name on a cashier's check. Return to your bank, explain the error, and ask them to cancel it and issue a new one with the correct name. You will be refunded the original amount, though you may be charged another fee for the replacement check.
How long does a cashier's check stay valid?
Cashier's checks do not expire, but banks may refuse to honor very old checks (typically older than six months to a year). If your check is old, contact your bank to confirm it is still valid before giving it to the recipient.