Your bank is the fastest source for checks, but you have other options if you need them urgently or your account is closed

The most direct way to get checks is to order them from your bank. You can do this online through your bank's website, by phone, by mail, or in person at a branch. Most banks print checks with your account number, routing number, and name already on them. Ordering usually takes 7 to 14 business days for standard delivery, though expedited options exist if you need them sooner.

If your bank account is closed or you do not have a bank account, you can buy blank checks from office supply stores, online retailers, or check-printing companies. These are not personalized with your account information, so you fill in the details by hand. You can also use a cashier's check or money order as an alternative to a personal check in many situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Ordering checks from your bank through their website or by phone is the standard method and takes 7 to 14 business days for regular delivery.
  • Expedited check delivery is available from most banks for an additional fee, usually arriving in 3 to 5 business days.
  • If you need a check immediately, a cashier's check from your bank or a money order from a post office or retailer can serve the same purpose.
  • Blank checks sold at office supply stores do not have your account information printed on them and require you to write in the details.
  • If your account is closed or you have no bank account, third-party check-printing services and retailers offer alternatives.

Ordering checks directly from your bank

Most banks let you order checks online through your account dashboard. Log in, look for a section labeled "Order Checks," "Check Services," or "Supplies," and follow the prompts. You will usually choose the quantity (often sold in boxes of 25 or 50), the style or design, and the delivery speed. Standard delivery is included in the cost or charged a small fee; expedited delivery costs more.

If you do not use online banking, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on their website. A representative can take your order over the phone. You can also visit a branch in person and order checks at the teller window. Some banks charge for checks; others include a certain number per year with your account type. Ask what your bank charges before you order.

When you order, have your account number ready. Your bank will print your name, address, account number, and routing number on the checks. Make sure the address is correct before you confirm the order, because that is what will appear on every check.

Getting checks faster: expedited and same-day options

If you need checks in fewer than 7 days, ask your bank about expedited shipping. Most banks offer 3 to 5 business day delivery for an extra fee, usually between $10 and $25. Some banks also offer overnight delivery for a higher fee. Expedited options are typically available only if you order online or by phone, not in person at a branch.

If you need a check today or tomorrow, a cashier's check is your fastest option. Go to your bank branch with your debit card or ID and tell the teller you need a cashier's check. The teller will write the check from the bank's own account, not yours, and you pay the amount of the check plus a small fee (usually $5 to $15). Cashier's checks are drawn on the bank itself, so they are treated as may provide funds by the recipient. Most banks issue cashier's checks the same day, often within minutes.

A money order is another same-day option. You can buy money orders at the post office, grocery stores, Walmart, or other retailers. You fill in the payee name and amount yourself. Money orders typically cost $1 to $5 depending on the amount. They work similarly to checks but are considered safer because they are prepaid.

Blank checks from retailers and online sources

If you do not want to wait for personalized checks or you do not have a bank account, you can buy blank checks at office supply stores like Staples or Office Depot, at Walmart, or online from retailers like Amazon. These checks are blank except for the routing and account number fields, which you fill in by hand. They cost between $5 and $15 per box depending on the quantity and style.

Blank checks work for most personal transactions, but some recipients may be hesitant to accept them because they lack the security features of bank-printed checks. Landlords, utilities, and government agencies often prefer personalized checks or other payment methods. Ask the recipient whether a blank check is acceptable before you use one.

Online check-printing companies like Costco Checks, Checks Unlimited, and Deluxe also sell personalized checks directly to consumers without requiring a bank account. You provide your name, address, and account information, and they print and mail the checks to you. Delivery usually takes 7 to 14 business days, similar to ordering from a bank, but prices vary by company.

What to do if your bank account is closed

If your account is closed, you cannot order personalized checks from that bank. However, you have several alternatives. You can buy blank checks and fill in your old account number if the account is still valid for receiving deposits (some banks keep accounts open for a grace period after closure). Contact the bank to confirm whether the account can still receive payments before you use old checks.

If the account is truly closed and cannot receive deposits, use a cashier's check, money order, or blank check instead. If you have opened a new account at a different bank, order checks from the new bank with your new account information. If you do not have a bank account at all, money orders are the most widely accepted alternative to personal checks.

Costs and what affects the price

The cost of checks varies by bank and by the options you choose. Standard personalized checks ordered from your bank may be free with certain account types or cost $10 to $30 per box. Expedited delivery adds $10 to $25. Cashier's checks cost $5 to $15 each. Money orders cost $1 to $5. Blank checks from retailers cost $5 to $15 per box.

Some factors that affect price include the quantity you order (larger orders often cost less per check), the design or style you choose, the delivery speed, and your bank's fee structure. Premium account holders sometimes get free checks or discounted rates. Ask your bank what your specific account includes before you order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get checks from my bank?

Standard delivery from most banks takes 7 to 14 business days. Expedited delivery is usually 3 to 5 business days for an extra fee. If you need a check immediately, get a cashier's check from your bank branch the same day, or buy a money order from a retailer.

Can I use blank checks for paying bills?

Yes, blank checks work for most bills, but some billers prefer personalized checks or other payment methods. Call your biller first to confirm they will accept a blank check. For utilities and government agencies, ask whether they have a preference.

What is the difference between a cashier's check and a personal check?

A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account, not yours, so the funds are may provide. A personal check is drawn on your account and can bounce if you do not have enough money. Cashier's checks cost more but are treated as safer by recipients.

Do I need a bank account to get checks?

You do not need a bank account to buy blank checks or money orders from retailers. You can also buy personalized checks from third-party check-printing companies online without a bank account. However, you will need a bank account to order checks directly from a bank.

What should I do if I ordered checks and they have not arrived?

Contact your bank and provide your order number or the date you ordered. Most banks can track the shipment and tell you when to expect delivery. If the checks are significantly delayed, ask whether the bank can issue a replacement order or expedite a new one at no extra charge.