Yes, you can order checks directly from your bank, and most banks will print them for you within a week or two
When you open a checking account, your bank does not automatically send you checks — you have to order them. You can request checks through your bank's website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most banks charge a fee per box (typically $10 to $30 depending on the bank and check style), though some accounts waive the fee or offer a free box when you open the account.
The process is straightforward: you provide your account number and routing number (which your bank already has), choose a check style if options are available, and confirm your mailing address. Standard checks arrive in seven to fourteen business days. If you need them faster, some banks offer expedited printing for an extra fee, usually delivering within three to five business days.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks charge $10 to $30 per box of checks, though some waive the fee for certain account types or new customers.
- You can order checks online, through your mobile app, by phone, or at a branch — the online and app methods are usually fastest.
- Standard delivery takes seven to fourteen business days; expedited options may be available for an additional fee.
- You need your account number and routing number to place an order, both of which appear on your bank statements and deposit slips.
- Some people order checks from third-party printers instead of their bank, which can be cheaper but requires you to enter your routing and account numbers manually.
Where to order checks from your bank
The fastest way to order is through your bank's website or mobile app. Log into your account, look for a "order checks" or "check services" link (usually under account settings or services), and follow the prompts. You will select the quantity, style, and delivery address, then pay the fee. This method takes minutes and gives you an immediate confirmation.
If you do not use online banking, call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on your statement) and ask to order checks. A representative will walk you through the details and process the order over the phone. You can also visit a branch in person, though this is slower and requires you to go during business hours.
What information you need to provide
Your bank already has your account number and routing number on file, so you do not need to look them up — the order form will pull them automatically if you order online. If you order by phone or in person, have your account number ready (it appears on your debit card and statements), but the bank representative will confirm it with you.
You will need to confirm the address where you want the checks mailed. This is usually your current address on file, but you can change it if you have moved recently. Some banks also ask whether you want the checks mailed to a different address than your account address — useful if you are moving soon or want them sent to a business location.
Fees and what affects the cost
Most banks charge between $10 and $30 per box of 25 or 50 checks. The exact price depends on your bank, your account type, and the check style you choose. Basic checks (plain white with your name and address printed) are usually the cheapest. Duplicate checks (which create a carbon copy as you write) or checks with images or logos cost more.
Some banks waive check fees for premium accounts, such as those with a minimum balance or monthly direct deposit. A few banks offer one free box of standard checks when you open a new account. Ask your bank whether your account type qualifies for any fee waivers before you order.
How long delivery takes
Standard delivery is seven to fourteen business days from the time you place the order. This means if you order on a Monday, expect your checks to arrive the following Monday through Friday. The timeline depends on your bank's printer and your location — banks in remote areas may take slightly longer.
If you need checks sooner, some banks offer expedited printing for $15 to $25 extra, which cuts the delivery time to three to five business days. A few banks also offer next-business-day delivery for a premium fee, though this is rare and usually available only at larger institutions. Ask your bank what rush options are available when you place your order.
Ordering checks from a third-party printer instead
You do not have to order checks from your bank. Third-party check printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart also print checks, often at a lower cost — sometimes $5 to $15 per box. The trade-off is that you have to manually enter your routing number and account number into the printer's website, which adds a step and a small risk if you enter the numbers incorrectly.
Third-party printers usually offer more design options and faster delivery than banks. However, some banks or businesses may reject checks from non-bank printers, though this is uncommon. If you go this route, double-check your routing and account numbers before you submit your order — a mistake here means the checks will not work.
What to do if you run out of checks before new ones arrive
If you need to make a payment before your new checks arrive, you have several options. Most banks let you write a check on a deposit slip or a temporary check (a single-page form your bank provides) while you wait for your printed checks. Ask a teller at your branch for a temporary check if you need one urgently.
You can also pay bills using your bank's bill pay service (available through online banking or your mobile app), which sends a check on your behalf or transfers money electronically. This is often faster and more secure than mailing a physical check. If the payee does not accept electronic payments, bill pay will print and mail a check for you, usually within one to three business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to order checks from my bank, or can I use any printer?
You can order from your bank or a third-party printer. Third-party printers are often cheaper, but you must enter your routing and account numbers manually, which carries a small risk of error. Most businesses and banks accept checks from either source.
What if I enter my routing number wrong on a third-party order?
The checks will not work — they will be rejected when you try to use them because the routing number directs the payment to the wrong bank. Contact the printer immediately to cancel and reorder with the correct number. Always verify your routing number (found on your bank's website or a deposit slip) before submitting.
Can I get checks the same day?
No. Standard delivery is seven to fourteen business days, and expedited options (if your bank offers them) are three to five business days. If you need to pay someone immediately, use your bank's bill pay service, a temporary check from your branch, or an electronic transfer instead.
Why does my bank charge for checks when other banks don't?
Check fees vary by bank and account type. Some banks waive fees for premium accounts, new customers, or accounts with direct deposit. Compare your bank's fee structure to others — if you write many checks and fees matter to you, switching to a bank that waives check fees may save money over time.
What if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?
Contact your bank or the printer immediately with photos of the damage or error. They will reprint and ship a replacement box at no charge. Keep the damaged checks until the replacements arrive in case the printer needs to see them.