Most banks will not issue checks for savings accounts, but some offer alternatives that work the same way
A standard savings account does not come with a checkbook. Banks restrict check-writing to checking accounts because checks are designed for frequent transactions, and savings accounts are meant to hold money with limited withdrawals. If your bank does offer checks on a savings account, they usually come with restrictions—you might be limited to three to six checks per month, or you may face fees for each check you write.
The reason matters: federal regulations once capped savings account withdrawals at six per month. That rule changed in 2020, but the banking industry kept the practice because it distinguishes savings from checking. Some banks have loosened this, but most have not.
If you need to pay bills or send money from a savings account, you have other options that work faster and cost nothing.
Key Takeaways
- Most savings accounts do not come with checks, and banks that offer them usually limit you to three to six checks per month.
- Online transfers, bill pay, and debit cards are faster and free ways to move money from a savings account.
- Some banks offer savings accounts with check-writing as a premium feature, but you will pay a monthly fee.
- If you need checks regularly, a checking account is cheaper and simpler than a savings account with check privileges.
Banks that do offer checks on savings accounts and what they cost
A handful of banks will issue checks for savings accounts, but they treat it as an add-on service. Charles Schwab offers checks on its savings account at no extra charge, though you must maintain a minimum balance. Ally Bank does not offer checks on savings, but some credit unions do—usually for a monthly fee of $5 to $15 or a per-check fee of $0.50 to $2.
Before you pursue this route, ask yourself whether you actually need checks. Most people who think they do can accomplish the same thing faster with a debit card, online bill pay, or a transfer to someone else's account. Checks take three to five business days to clear, while transfers happen the same day or next day.
If your bank does offer checks on savings, read the fine print for withdrawal limits. Some banks cap you at six checks per month, others at twelve. Going over the limit usually costs $10 to $35 per excess transaction.
Faster ways to pay from a savings account
Online bill pay is the fastest option for paying companies—utilities, insurance, credit cards, loans. You log into your bank's website, enter the company's details once, and schedule payments for any date you choose. The bank sends the money electronically or mails a check on your behalf. Most banks offer this free with any savings account.
Transfers to another person's account happen the same day or next business day through ACH (Automated Clearing House). You need their routing number and account number, which you can get from a check or by asking them. No fee, and much faster than a check.
Debit cards work like checks for in-person purchases but are instant. If your savings account comes with a debit card, you can use it anywhere a credit card is accepted. The money leaves your account immediately, and there is no waiting period.
Mobile payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or your bank's own app let you send money to friends and family in minutes. These work best for splitting bills or paying someone you know, not for paying companies.
When you might actually need a checkbook
Checks are still necessary in a few situations. Some landlords, contractors, or small businesses do not accept electronic payments and will only take a check. Some older people or institutions (like certain government offices) still prefer checks. If you face this regularly, the simplest solution is to open a checking account instead of trying to force a savings account to do the job.
A basic checking account costs nothing at most banks and comes with unlimited checks, a debit card, and online bill pay. You can keep your savings account separate and transfer money between them whenever you need to. This is cleaner than paying fees to add check-writing to a savings account.
How to request checks if your bank offers them
If your bank does offer checks on savings accounts, contact them through their website, app, or by phone. You will need to confirm your account details and may have to sign an agreement acknowledging any limits or fees. Most banks mail checks within five to ten business days.
Before you order, ask these questions: How many checks per month are you allowed? What happens if you exceed that number? Is there a monthly fee? Are there any minimum balance requirements? Some banks will waive fees if you maintain a certain amount in the account.
Switching to a checking account if checks are essential
If you need checks regularly, a checking account is almost always cheaper and simpler than adding checks to a savings account. Most banks offer free checking with no monthly fee, no minimum balance, and unlimited checks. You get a debit card, online bill pay, and the ability to write as many checks as you need.
You can keep both accounts open—use the checking account for bills and regular spending, and keep the savings account for money you want to set aside. Many banks let you link them so transfers between them are instant and free.
If your current bank charges for checking, shop around. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover offer free checking with no strings attached. Credit unions often do too, especially if you live or work in their service area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write checks from my savings account if my bank doesn't officially offer them?
No. If your bank does not issue checks for your savings account, attempting to write checks will result in overdraft fees or rejected transactions. Contact your bank to ask whether check-writing is available as an option, or open a checking account instead.
Will I get charged a fee every time I write a check on a savings account?
It depends on the bank. Some charge per check ($0.50 to $2 each), others charge a monthly fee ($5 to $15) if you write any checks at all, and some charge only if you exceed a monthly limit. Always ask before you order checks.
Is it better to get checks or use bill pay?
Bill pay is faster, free, and works for most bills. Checks are only necessary if the company or person you are paying does not accept electronic payments. For most people, bill pay eliminates the need for checks entirely.
Can I transfer money from savings to checking and then write a check?
Yes. This is actually the most common approach. Transfer money from savings to checking (instant and free), then write the check from checking. This keeps your accounts organized and avoids fees for check-writing on savings.
What if I need to write a check but don't have a checking account?
You can ask your bank to issue a cashier's check or money order, which works like a check but is may provide by the bank. These cost $5 to $15 each and take a few minutes to issue. For one-time needs, this is faster than opening a checking account.