Bank of Hawaii does offer checkbook services, but only for certain account types

Bank of Hawaii provides checks for most checking accounts, but the availability depends on your account type and whether you maintain a minimum balance. Standard checking accounts typically come with check-writing privileges, though some specialty or limited accounts may not. You can order checks through your online banking portal, by phone, or in person at a branch. The bank does not charge a fee to order checks, but third-party check printers may charge if you choose to use an outside vendor instead of Bank of Hawaii's default provider.

If you already have a Bank of Hawaii checking account, the fastest way to find out whether your specific account includes check services is to log into your online banking dashboard or call the customer service line at 1-888-555-HAWAII (1-888-555-4284). A representative can confirm your account status and walk you through the ordering process in minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Bank of Hawaii checking accounts include check-writing privileges at no additional charge.
  • You can order checks online through your account portal, by phone, or at a branch location.
  • Bank of Hawaii does not charge a fee for standard check orders, though delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • Some account types, such as savings accounts or money market accounts, do not include check-writing services.
  • If you need checks urgently, you can order expedited checks through a third-party printer, though you will pay a separate fee.

How to order checks through your Bank of Hawaii account

The easiest method is to order checks online. Log into your Bank of Hawaii online banking account, navigate to the "Services" or "Account Services" section, and look for "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks." You will be asked to confirm your account number, the number of check boxes you want, and your mailing address. Standard orders arrive in 7 to 10 business days at no cost.

If you prefer to order by phone, call Bank of Hawaii customer service at 1-888-555-4284. A representative will verify your identity and process your order over the phone. You can also visit any Bank of Hawaii branch in person and request checks from a teller. Bring your account number and a valid ID.

When you order, you will typically have the option to choose check designs. Bank of Hawaii offers several standard formats, and you can select the one that matches your preferences. Make sure your address on file is correct before submitting your order, because checks will be mailed to that address.

Delivery time and what to expect when checks arrive

Standard check orders from Bank of Hawaii take 7 to 10 business days to arrive. This timeline begins after your order is processed, not from the day you place it. If you need checks sooner, you have two options: visit a branch and ask about starter checks (temporary checks printed on the spot), or use a third-party check printer that offers expedited delivery. Third-party printers typically charge $15 to $30 for rush orders and can deliver within 2 to 3 business days.

When your checks arrive, verify that your name, account number, and routing number are printed correctly before you use them. Bank of Hawaii's routing number for Hawaii locations is 121000248, but confirm this matches what appears on your checks. If there is an error, contact the bank immediately to request a replacement order.

Accounts that do not include check-writing services

Not all Bank of Hawaii accounts come with check-writing privileges. Savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificate of deposit (CD) accounts do not allow you to write checks directly from those accounts. If you need check-writing capability, you must open a checking account instead.

Some specialty checking accounts, such as student accounts or limited-transaction accounts, may have restrictions on the number of checks you can write per month or may require a minimum balance to maintain check privileges. Review your account agreement or call customer service to confirm what applies to your specific account type.

Using a third-party check printer instead

You are not required to order checks from Bank of Hawaii. Many people use third-party check printers like Costco, Walmart, or online vendors such as Deluxe or Checks Unlimited. These printers often charge less per box than Bank of Hawaii and offer more design options. However, you must provide your routing number and account number correctly, and you should verify that the printer is legitimate before placing an order.

If you use a third-party printer, make sure the checks are printed with Bank of Hawaii's routing number (121000248 for Hawaii branches, though this may vary by location) and your correct account number. Any error in these numbers will cause checks to bounce or be rejected. Some third-party printers offer a verification service to confirm these details before printing.

What to do if you lose checks or need to stop payment

If your checkbook is lost or stolen, contact Bank of Hawaii immediately. Call 1-888-555-4284 or visit a branch to report the loss. The bank can flag your account and monitor for fraudulent check activity. You should also request a stop payment on any checks you believe may be used fraudulently, though this costs $25 to $35 per check and is only effective if the check has not already been cashed.

If you need to cancel a check you wrote, you can place a stop payment order online, by phone, or in person. The stop payment remains in effect for six months, after which it expires. If the check still has not cleared by then and you want to extend the stop, you will need to place a new order.

Alternatives to paper checks

Bank of Hawaii also supports digital payment methods that may be faster or more secure than mailing a check. You can set up bill pay through your online banking account to send payments directly to creditors, utilities, and other payees. You can also transfer money between accounts using ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfers, send money to other people via peer-to-peer apps, or use a debit card for purchases and payments.

Bill pay is often free for Bank of Hawaii customers and can be scheduled to arrive on a specific date. This is useful if you want to ensure a payment reaches a creditor by a deadline without relying on mail delivery time. For one-time or recurring payments to the same payee, bill pay is usually faster and more reliable than writing a check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bank of Hawaii charge a fee to order checks?

No, Bank of Hawaii does not charge a fee for standard check orders. Checks arrive in 7 to 10 business days at no cost. If you order expedited checks through a third-party printer, you will pay a separate fee to that vendor, typically $15 to $30.

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes, you can order checks as soon as your account is active. You may need to wait a day or two for your account number to be fully set up in the system, but you can then place an order online or by phone. If you need checks immediately, ask about starter checks at a branch.

What is Bank of Hawaii's routing number for checks?

The routing number for Bank of Hawaii locations in Hawaii is 121000248. However, routing numbers can vary by branch location and account type. Confirm the correct routing number on your statement or by calling customer service before ordering checks from a third-party printer.

Can I write checks from my savings account at Bank of Hawaii?

No, savings accounts do not include check-writing services. Only checking accounts allow you to write checks. If you need check-writing capability, you must open a checking account with Bank of Hawaii.

What should I do if my checks arrive with an error?

Contact Bank of Hawaii immediately if your checks have an incorrect name, account number, or routing number. Call 1-888-555-4284 or visit a branch. The bank will typically reorder your checks at no charge and may provide temporary starter checks while you wait for the replacement order to arrive.