Most banks will print blank checks for you, but you have to order them—they don't hand them out at the counter

Your bank can print blank checks with your account number, routing number, and name already on them. You order them through your bank's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. The bank prints them and mails them to you, usually within 5 to 10 business days. You pay for the checks themselves—typically $15 to $30 per box of 50 or 100, depending on the bank and the style you choose.

Some banks include a small number of free checks when you open an account, but after that, you pay. A few banks offer free check printing to certain account holders (usually those with premium or business accounts), so it's worth asking your bank what they offer for your specific account type.

If you need checks faster than the standard mail delivery, some banks can print them at a branch location while you wait, though this is less common and may cost more. Online banks that don't have physical branches typically partner with a third-party printer and mail checks to you; the timeline is usually the same as traditional banks.

Key Takeaways

  • You order blank checks from your bank through their website, phone line, or a branch location; they do not give them out without a request.
  • Standard delivery takes 5 to 10 business days, and you pay per box (usually $15 to $30 for 50 to 100 checks).
  • Some account types come with free check printing; ask your bank whether yours does before you pay.
  • If you need checks urgently, call your bank to ask whether they can print them at a branch while you wait.
  • Online banks mail checks to you through a third-party printer on the same timeline as traditional banks.

How to order checks from your bank

Log into your online banking portal and look for a "order checks" or "check services" link, usually under account settings or services. You'll select the style and quantity, enter your mailing address, and pay. The bank sends the order to their printer and mails the finished checks to you.

If you don't use online banking or prefer to speak to someone, call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on their website) and ask to order checks. A representative will walk you through the options and process the order over the phone. You can also visit a branch in person, though this is slower than ordering online or by phone.

When you order, you'll choose how many checks you want per box and sometimes the design or color. Stick with standard designs unless you have a specific reason not to—they're cheaper and process faster. Provide your current mailing address so the checks arrive at the right place.

What happens if you need checks before they arrive

If you've ordered checks but need to make a payment before they arrive, use a different method: online bill pay through your bank, a debit card, an ACH transfer, or a wire transfer. These all move money from your account without requiring a physical check.

If the person or business you're paying absolutely requires a check and you can't wait, ask your bank whether they can print checks at a branch while you wait. Not all banks offer this, and it may cost more than a standard order. Call ahead to confirm they can do it and what the fee is.

Another option is to ask the recipient whether they accept electronic payment instead. Many businesses and individuals now prefer ACH transfers or digital payment apps to checks anyway, so it's worth asking before you rush an order.

Fees and what affects the cost

Most banks charge $15 to $30 per box of checks, though the exact amount depends on the bank, the quantity you order, and the design. Ordering 200 checks at once is usually cheaper per check than ordering 50. Specialty designs (colored checks, checks with images, oversized checks) cost more than standard black-and-white checks.

Some banks waive check fees for customers with certain account types—often premium checking, business accounts, or accounts with a minimum balance. Before you pay, ask your bank whether your account qualifies for free check printing. If you switch banks, ask about check fees as part of your comparison.

Online check printers (companies that are not your bank) sometimes offer cheaper checks, but they require you to provide your routing number and account number to a third party. This adds a small fraud risk. Ordering through your bank is safer because the bank already has your information and controls the printing directly.

Security and what to watch for

When your checks arrive, inspect them for errors before you use them. Make sure your name, address, account number, and routing number are all correct. If anything is wrong, contact your bank immediately and ask them to reprint the order.

Store blank checks in a secure place, just as you would cash. Don't leave them in an unlocked drawer or car. If checks go missing or are stolen, contact your bank right away so they can flag your account and watch for fraudulent activity.

When you write a check, fill in the date, payee name, amount in numbers and words, and your signature. Never sign blank checks or leave any field blank. If you make a mistake, mark the check "VOID" and keep it with your records.

Why banks still print checks even though digital payments exist

Checks are slower and more expensive than digital transfers, but some situations still require them: paying contractors or service providers who don't accept cards, sending money to people who don't have bank accounts, paying certain government agencies, or making large payments where a paper trail matters legally.

Landlords, utilities, and insurance companies often still accept checks. Some older adults and small businesses prefer checks because they're familiar and create a clear record. Even though digital payments are faster, checks remain a standard payment method that most banks support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get checks printed the same day?

Some banks can print checks at a branch while you wait, but this is not standard and may cost extra. Call your bank and ask whether they offer same-day printing and what the fee is. Most banks mail checks within 5 to 10 business days instead.

What if I write a check and the recipient never cashes it?

The money stays in your account. Checks expire after six months in most states, though some banks honor them longer. If the recipient loses the check or forgets to cash it, you can ask your bank to stop payment on that check (usually for a $25 to $35 fee) and issue a new one.

Do I have to order checks from my bank, or can I use a different printer?

You can order checks from third-party printers, but you must provide them with your routing number and account number. This adds a small fraud risk. Ordering through your bank is safer because the bank controls the process and already has your information securely on file.

What if my account number or routing number changes?

If you close your account or switch banks, your old checks become invalid. If your bank changes your account number for security reasons, they will issue you new checks. Do not use old checks after your account information changes.

Are there banks that don't print checks anymore?

Most banks still print checks, but some online-only banks make it harder or charge more. A few newer banks discourage checks entirely and push customers toward digital payments. If checks matter to you, confirm your bank prints them before you open an account.