Yes, you can order a checkbook from your bank, and most banks will print one for you within a few business days
Every bank that offers checking accounts can print checks for you. You can request a checkbook in person at a branch, by phone, online through your bank's website or app, or by mail. Most banks charge a fee per box of checks—typically $15 to $30 for a standard box of 25 or 50 checks—though some banks waive the fee for certain account types or if you maintain a minimum balance. The time it takes depends on how you order: in-branch orders sometimes print the same day or within 24 hours, while mail and online orders usually arrive within 5 to 10 business days.
If you need checks urgently and your bank cannot print them same-day, you can order from third-party printers like Deluxe, Checks Unlimited, or Costco (for members), which are often cheaper and sometimes faster than ordering directly from your bank. The key is having your routing number and account number ready before you place any order.
Key Takeaways
- You can order checks through your bank's website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch, and most orders arrive within 5 to 10 business days.
- Banks typically charge $15 to $30 per box of checks, though some accounts or customers may have this fee waived.
- If you need checks urgently, ask your bank whether they can print a small emergency box in-branch the same day.
- You can also order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which are often cheaper than ordering directly from your bank.
- Your bank routing number and account number appear on every check, so do not share photos or images of your checks with anyone.
How to order checks through your bank's website or app
Most banks let you order checks directly from their online banking portal or mobile app. Log in, look for a section labeled "Order Checks," "Manage Checks," or "Services," and follow the prompts. You will usually be asked to confirm your account number, choose the quantity (typically 25, 50, or 100 checks per box), and select any design options if your bank offers them. The order is placed immediately, and you will see a confirmation with an estimated delivery date.
Some banks allow you to track your check order the same way you track a package shipment. If your bank does not have an online ordering option, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch in person. The tracking feature, when available, shows you the status of your order and the expected arrival date at your mailing address.
Ordering checks by phone or in person
Call the customer service number on your bank statement or debit card and ask to order checks. Have your account number ready. The representative will confirm your mailing address, ask how many boxes you want, and process the order over the phone. Delivery typically takes 5 to 10 business days to the address on file.
If you need checks faster, visit a branch in person. Some branches can print a small emergency box of 10 to 25 checks on the spot using their in-house printer, though this service is not available at every location and may carry a higher per-check cost. Call ahead to confirm whether your branch offers same-day printing, since not all branches have the equipment to do this.
What happens if you need checks urgently
If you need to write a check before your ordered box arrives, ask your bank whether they can print an emergency supply in-branch. If that is not possible, you have two options: ask the person or business you are paying whether they accept a bank transfer, ACH payment, or wire transfer instead, or use a third-party check printer that offers expedited shipping.
Third-party printers like Deluxe, Checks Unlimited, and Costco (for members) often print and ship checks faster than banks and at a lower cost. You will need your routing number and account number, which you can find on a deposit slip, bank statement, or by logging into your online banking. Do not use a check image or photo—enter the numbers manually or copy them from an official bank document to avoid transcription errors.
Understanding check fees and account types
Most banks charge per box of checks, not per individual check. A standard box contains 25 or 50 checks, and the fee ranges from $15 to $30 depending on the bank and the design you choose. Some banks offer free check printing for premium accounts, high-balance customers, or as part of a package deal. Ask your bank whether your account type qualifies for free checks before you pay.
If you order checks frequently, compare the cost of ordering through your bank versus a third-party printer. Third-party printers often cost $10 to $20 per box and sometimes run promotions that bring the price even lower. The trade-off is that you are responsible for entering your routing and account numbers correctly—if you make a mistake, the checks will not work and you will need to place a new order.
What information appears on your checks and what to protect
Every check printed for your account will show your name, address, bank name, routing number, and account number. The routing number identifies your bank; the account number identifies your specific account. Together, these numbers allow anyone who has them to set up automatic payments from your account or attempt to withdraw money.
Never photograph or share an image of a check, even a blank one. If you need to give someone your routing and account number for a legitimate payment (like setting up direct deposit or paying a bill), provide the numbers by phone, secure email, or in person—not by photo. If a check is lost or stolen before you use it, contact your bank immediately so they can flag that check number and watch for fraudulent use.
Reordering checks and managing your supply
Most people order a new box of checks every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often they write checks. You can reorder at any time through the same method you used before—online, by phone, or in person. If you have not written many checks and still have a supply, you do not need to reorder until you are running low.
If you change banks, do not use checks from your old account after the account is closed. Any checks you write on a closed account will bounce, and the recipient may charge you a returned-check fee. If you have a large supply of old checks, shred them or destroy them so they cannot be used fraudulently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Standard delivery is 5 to 10 business days for mail orders. In-branch orders may print the same day or within 24 hours if your bank has an on-site printer. Third-party printers often ship within 3 to 5 business days. Expedited shipping is available from some printers for an additional fee.
Can I order checks if my account is new?
Yes. Most banks allow you to order checks as soon as your account is open and active. If you cannot order online, call customer service or visit a branch. Some banks may require you to wait a few business days for the account to fully activate before processing check orders.
What if I made a mistake entering my routing number when ordering from a third-party printer?
Contact the printer immediately and explain the error. Many printers will cancel the order and reprint with the correct number at no extra charge if you catch the mistake before printing begins. If the checks have already printed, you will likely need to pay for a new order with the correct information.
Do I have to order checks through my bank, or can I use any printer?
You can use any printer as long as they have your correct routing number and account number. Third-party printers are often cheaper and faster than banks. Make sure the printer is reputable and uses security features like watermarks and microprinting to prevent counterfeiting.
What should I do if my checks are lost in the mail?
Contact your bank and provide the check numbers that were in the shipment. Your bank can flag those numbers and monitor your account for fraudulent activity. Ask the bank to stop payment on those checks if they are used. You can also file a claim with the postal service if the package was insured.