How to get a checkbook from your bank
You can order checks directly from your bank through their website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most banks let you order checks within minutes online, and they arrive in five to ten business days. Some banks charge a fee per box of checks (usually $10 to $25), while others include a certain number of free boxes per year with your account.
If you need checks urgently, you can pick up temporary counter checks at your branch the same day, though these are meant for short-term use only. Counter checks are plain, unnumbered checks printed on the spot with your account and routing numbers already filled in—they work immediately while you wait for your regular order to arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Online ordering through your bank's website or app is the fastest and most common way to get checks, with delivery in five to ten business days.
- Most banks charge $10 to $25 per box of checks, though some accounts include free boxes annually or waive fees for certain account types.
- If you need checks immediately, ask your bank for counter checks at a branch, which you can use while waiting for your printed order to arrive.
- You can customize check designs, ink colors, and layouts when ordering, though custom options may cost more and take longer to deliver.
- Third-party check printers often cost less than banks but require you to provide your account and routing numbers yourself.
Ordering checks online through your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a "Checks" or "Order Supplies" link, usually in the account services or settings section. Click through to the check ordering page, select the account you want checks for, and choose your check style. You will need to confirm your mailing address, and most banks will print your account number and routing number on the checks automatically.
Review the order summary, which shows the quantity (usually 25 or 50 checks per box), the cost, and the estimated delivery date. Complete the payment and your order is placed. You will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. Delivery typically takes five to ten business days, depending on your bank and location.
Ordering through your bank's mobile app
Many banks now let you order checks directly from their mobile app. Open the app, navigate to account services or settings, and find the checks or supplies section. The process is the same as online ordering: select your account, choose a style, confirm your address, and pay. Mobile ordering is convenient if you are away from a computer, and you get the same delivery timeline as web orders.
Some banks send you a notification when your checks ship and again when they arrive, so you know exactly when to expect them. This tracking feature helps you plan ahead if you need checks by a certain date.
Calling your bank to order checks
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Tell the representative you want to order checks. They will verify your identity, confirm the account and mailing address, and walk you through style options. You can pay by debit card or have the fee charged to your account. Phone orders take the same five to ten business days to arrive as online orders.
Phone ordering is useful if you prefer speaking to someone or if you have questions about customization options. Some banks also allow you to order checks when you visit a branch in person, though this is less common now.
Getting temporary checks at your branch
If you need to write checks before your order arrives, visit your bank branch and ask for counter checks or temporary checks. These are plain, unnumbered checks printed on the spot with your account and routing numbers. The bank will give you a small pad, usually 10 to 25 checks, at no charge or for a small fee. You can use these immediately while you wait for your regular checks to arrive.
Counter checks are not meant for long-term use—they lack the security features of printed checks and some merchants or billers may be hesitant to accept them. But they work for paying bills or making deposits while your permanent checks are in transit. Once your regular checks arrive, stop using the counter checks.
Understanding check ordering costs and fees
Most banks charge between $10 and $25 per box of checks. A standard box contains 25 checks, so ordering two boxes at once costs $20 to $50. Some account types—such as premium checking or business accounts—include free boxes of checks annually. Others waive fees for customers who maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Custom options like colored ink, different layouts, or images cost more and take longer to print. Standard black ink on white checks is the cheapest and fastest option. Ask your bank what is included with your account type before you order, because you may already have free checks coming to you.
Ordering checks from third-party printers
You can also order checks from independent check printing companies like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart. These printers often cost less than banks—sometimes $5 to $15 per box—and offer more design options. However, you must provide your account number and routing number yourself, and you are responsible for entering them correctly. If you make a mistake, the checks will not work.
Third-party printers also take longer to deliver, sometimes two to three weeks. Use this option only if you have time to wait and you are confident entering your banking information accurately. Always order from a reputable printer and never share your full account details with unknown websites.
What information the bank prints on your checks
Your bank automatically prints your name, address, account number, and routing number on your checks. You do not enter these yourself. The routing number identifies your specific bank branch, and the account number identifies your account within that bank. Both numbers are essential for the check to work.
When you order, double-check that your name and address are correct on the preview. If either is wrong, contact your bank to update your account information before the checks print. Misprinted checks cannot be used and will need to be reordered.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Most banks deliver checks in five to ten business days. Expedited shipping is sometimes available for an extra fee and cuts delivery to three to five days. If you need checks immediately, ask your bank for counter checks at a branch, which you can use the same day.
Can I order checks if I just opened my account?
Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is active and you have received your account number and routing number. Some banks let you order checks during the account opening process itself.
What if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?
Contact your bank immediately with photos of the damage or error. Most banks will reorder your checks at no charge and may provide counter checks while you wait for the replacement. Keep the damaged checks in case the bank asks to see them.
Do I have to order checks from my bank, or can I use any printer?
You can use any reputable check printer, including third-party companies. However, you must enter your account and routing numbers yourself, so accuracy is critical. Many people order from their bank because the bank handles all the banking information automatically.
Are there checks I can use while waiting for my order?
Yes. Counter checks or temporary checks are available at your branch immediately and work while you wait. They are plain and unnumbered but include your account and routing numbers. Use them only until your regular checks arrive.