Most banks will issue checks for savings accounts, but not all do it the same way
You can order checks for a savings account at most banks, but the process and restrictions depend on your bank and the type of account you hold. Some banks print checks directly tied to your savings account number. Others require you to transfer money to a checking account first, then write checks from there. A few banks don't offer checks on savings accounts at all and will direct you to use a debit card or transfer funds instead.
The key difference is whether your bank treats savings and checking as separate products with separate routing numbers, or whether they're linked under one account structure. Before you order, call your bank or log into your online account to see what's actually available to you.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks will print checks for savings accounts, but you'll need to request them through your bank's website, mobile app, or by visiting a branch.
- Some banks charge a fee for savings account checks—typically $5 to $15 per box—while others include them free with the account.
- Checks usually arrive within 7 to 14 business days after you order them, though expedited printing is sometimes available for an extra fee.
- If your bank won't issue checks on savings, you can transfer money to a linked checking account and write checks from there instead.
- Savings account checks count toward withdrawal limits if your account is a money market or high-yield savings account regulated under Regulation D.
How to order checks for your savings account
The fastest way is through your bank's website or mobile app. Log in, look for a "Checks" or "Order Checks" option—usually under Account Services or Settings—and follow the prompts. You'll select the design, quantity, and delivery speed. Most banks let you order one box at a time or in bulk.
If you can't find the option online, call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person. A representative can confirm whether checks are available for your specific savings account type and walk you through ordering. Some banks still require a phone call or in-person visit to order checks, especially for older account types or specialty savings products.
When you order, have your account number and routing number ready. You may also need to confirm your mailing address. Banks typically send checks to the address on file, though some allow you to specify a different delivery address.
Cost and timing for savings account checks
Fees vary widely. Some banks include checks free with any savings account. Others charge $5 to $15 per box of 25 checks. A few charge per check or have tiered pricing based on how many boxes you order at once. Check your bank's fee schedule or ask when you order.
Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days from the time you place the order. Expedited options—usually 3 to 5 business days—are available at many banks for an additional $10 to $25. Overnight or 2-day delivery exists at some institutions but is rare and expensive.
The timeline starts when your order is confirmed, not when you place it. If you order on a Friday evening, the clock typically starts Monday morning. Plan ahead if you need checks for a specific date.
Withdrawal limits and savings account checks
If your savings account is a money market account or high-yield savings account governed by Regulation D, checks you write count toward your monthly withdrawal limit. The federal limit was suspended during the pandemic, but many banks have reinstated it—typically 6 withdrawals per month, including checks, transfers, and debit card transactions.
Regular passbook savings accounts usually don't have this restriction. Ask your bank which rule applies to your account. If you're near your withdrawal limit and need to write multiple checks, you may need to wait until the next statement cycle or transfer money to a checking account instead.
Some banks waive the withdrawal limit for checks specifically, treating them differently from electronic transfers. Others count them the same. This matters if you plan to write checks regularly—it's worth confirming before you order.
Banks that don't offer checks on savings accounts
Online-only banks and some credit unions don't print checks for savings accounts. If your bank falls into this category, you have two options: transfer money to a linked checking account and write checks from there, or use your debit card or bank transfers to pay bills instead.
If you need checks but your bank won't provide them, you can order third-party checks from companies like Deluxe or Current. These are printed with your name and address but not your bank's logo. Your bank's routing and account numbers go on them just like regular checks. Third-party checks cost more—usually $15 to $30 per box—and take longer to arrive, but they work the same way once they're printed.
Before ordering third-party checks, confirm with your bank that they'll accept them. Most do, but some have restrictions on non-bank-issued checks.
What to do if checks don't arrive or are damaged
If your checks don't arrive within the promised timeframe, contact your bank's customer service. They can track the order and confirm whether it's still in transit. If it's been longer than the stated delivery time, ask them to reorder at no charge or offer expedited replacement.
If checks arrive damaged, misprinted, or with the wrong account number, don't use them. Call your bank immediately with photos of the damage or error. They'll reorder a replacement box, usually at no cost. Keep the damaged checks until the bank tells you what to do with them—some want them returned, others want them destroyed.
If you ordered checks but changed your mind or ordered too many, some banks will cancel the order if it hasn't shipped yet. Once checks are printed and in the mail, cancellation isn't possible, but you can simply not use them.
Alternatives to checks for savings accounts
If checks aren't practical for your situation, consider these options: transfer money electronically to pay bills, use your debit card for in-person or online purchases, set up automatic bill pay through your bank, or use a peer-to-peer payment app like Venmo or Zelle to send money to individuals.
For large or formal payments—rent, security deposits, legal fees—many landlords, businesses, and attorneys still prefer checks or bank transfers. If you're writing checks regularly, it may be worth keeping a linked checking account specifically for that purpose, even if you do most of your saving in a separate savings account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write checks directly from my savings account?
Most banks will print checks tied to your savings account number, so yes. However, some banks only offer checks on checking accounts and require you to transfer money to a checking account first. Contact your bank to confirm what's available for your specific account type.
Do checks written from savings count toward my withdrawal limit?
Only if your account is a money market or high-yield savings account regulated under Regulation D. Regular savings accounts typically have no withdrawal limit. Check your account agreement or call your bank to find out which rule applies to you.
How much do checks cost?
Fees range from free to $15 per box, depending on your bank and account type. Some banks charge a flat fee per box; others charge per check. Review your bank's fee schedule or ask when you order.
What if my bank won't print checks for my savings account?
You can transfer money to a linked checking account and write checks from there, or order third-party checks from a company like Deluxe. Third-party checks cost more and take longer but work the same way once printed.
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Standard delivery is 7 to 14 business days. Expedited options typically take 3 to 5 business days for an additional fee. The timeline starts when your order is confirmed, not when you place it.