Yes, you can order checks from a savings account at most banks
Most banks will print checks against a savings account, though some treat it differently than a checking account. You can order them directly from your bank, through a third-party check printer, or sometimes pick them up at a branch. The process takes the same steps as ordering checks for any account — you provide the account number, routing number, and your name and address — but delivery times and costs vary by bank and by method.
The main difference is that savings accounts are designed for holding money rather than frequent transactions, so some banks charge a small fee for check orders or limit how many checks you can write per month. A few banks do not offer checks on savings accounts at all, which is worth confirming before you spend time ordering them.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow you to order checks from a savings account, but some charge a fee or limit the number of checks you can write each month.
- You can order checks directly from your bank's website, by phone, at a branch, or through a third-party printer like Deluxe or Costco.
- Bank-ordered checks typically arrive in five to ten business days; third-party printers may take longer but often cost less.
- Some banks do not offer checks on savings accounts, so contact your bank before ordering to confirm they will print them.
Ordering checks directly from your bank
Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking portal and look for a "order checks" or "order supplies" option. You will need your account number and routing number, which appear on any statement or deposit slip. Most banks let you choose the style and quantity — typically 50, 100, or 200 checks per order — and will show you the cost before you confirm.
Bank-ordered checks usually arrive within five to ten business days to the address on file for your account. Some banks offer expedited delivery for an extra fee if you need them faster. Ask whether your bank charges per check, per order, or includes check orders free with your account type — fees range from nothing to around $15 per order depending on the bank.
Using a third-party check printer
Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart Checks print checks for less than most banks charge, sometimes half the price. You provide your bank's routing number, your account number, and your name and address. Third-party printers do not verify your account with the bank, so you are responsible for making sure the numbers are correct before you place the order.
Delivery takes longer — usually ten to fifteen business days — but the savings add up if you order checks regularly. Some third-party printers offer rush delivery, though it costs more. Make sure the printer you choose is established and has customer reviews; checks are a financial document, and you want to order from a company that handles them securely.
What happens when you write a check from savings
When you write a check against your savings account, the bank processes it the same way it would from a checking account. The check clears through the banking system, the funds are withdrawn from your savings balance, and the recipient deposits it into their account. The transaction appears on your savings account statement just like any other withdrawal.
Some banks limit how many checks you can write from a savings account per month — federal rules once capped this at six, though that rule changed in 2020. Check your account agreement or call your bank to find out whether there is a limit and what happens if you exceed it. A few banks charge a fee for each check written from savings, so factor that into your decision if you plan to write many.
Banks that do not offer checks on savings accounts
Online banks and some credit unions do not print checks for savings accounts, or do not print checks at all. If your bank is one of them, you have two options: open a checking account at the same bank (which usually takes a few minutes online), or use a third-party check printer with your savings account number.
Before you order checks, contact your bank and ask directly whether they will print checks against your savings account. This takes two minutes and saves you the frustration of placing an order only to have it rejected. If they say no, ask whether they offer a no-fee checking account as an alternative — many do, and it solves the problem without extra cost.
Cost comparison: bank versus third-party
| Source | Typical Cost | Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your bank | $5–$15 per order | 5–10 business days | Speed and convenience; you know the bank verified your account |
| Deluxe | $3–$8 per order | 10–15 business days | Lower cost; wider design choices |
| Costco Checks | $2–$5 per order | 10–15 business days | Lowest cost if you have a Costco membership |
| Walmart Checks | $3–$7 per order | 10–15 business days | Low cost; no membership required |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a check from my savings account clear the same way as one from checking?
Yes. The check clears through the same banking system and takes the same number of days to process, usually one to three business days depending on the recipient's bank. The only difference is that the funds come out of your savings balance instead of a checking balance.
What if my bank says they do not print checks on savings accounts?
Ask whether they offer a free or low-cost checking account. Many banks do, and opening one takes a few minutes online. Alternatively, you can order checks from a third-party printer using your savings account number, though you are responsible for entering the correct routing and account numbers.
Can I order checks online, or do I have to call?
Most banks let you order checks through their website or mobile app. Log in, look for "order checks" or "order supplies," and follow the steps. If you cannot find it online, call customer service — they can place the order over the phone in a few minutes.
How many checks should I order at once?
Order 50 or 100 checks to start. If you rarely write checks, 50 is usually enough and costs less. If you write them regularly, 100 is more economical per check. Most people do not need 200 checks unless they write them very often.
Do I lose any money by writing checks from savings instead of checking?
Not from the check itself. However, some banks charge a per-check fee on savings accounts, so read your account agreement. Also, if your savings account earns interest, the money stops earning once the check clears and the funds leave your account — but that is true whether you withdraw cash or write a check.