Order checks through Citizens Bank's online banking portal or by phone
Citizens Bank lets you order checks in three ways: through your online banking account, by calling their customer service line, or by mail. The fastest route is online—you can place an order in minutes and checks typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you don't have online access or prefer to speak with someone, calling Citizens Bank's customer service team will connect you to a representative who can process your order over the phone.
You'll need your account number and routing number ready before you start. If you're ordering for the first time or don't know these numbers, log into your online account or look at a deposit slip or statement—both show this information. Citizens Bank charges a fee for check orders, though the cost varies depending on the style and quantity you choose.
Key Takeaways
- Online ordering through Citizens Bank's website is the fastest method and takes about 7 to 10 business days for delivery.
- You can also order by phone by calling Citizens Bank customer service and speaking with a representative directly.
- Have your account number and routing number available before you start the ordering process.
- Citizens Bank charges a fee for check orders, and the cost depends on the style and quantity you select.
- Standard checks are cheaper than designer or novelty styles, so choosing a basic design will lower your total cost.
Ordering checks online through your Citizens Bank account
Log into your Citizens Bank online banking portal using your username and password. Once you're logged in, look for a section labeled "Checks," "Order Checks," or "Services"—the exact location varies depending on whether you're using the desktop website or mobile app. Click on that option and you'll be taken to a page where you can select the type of checks you want.
You'll choose how many checks to order (usually in packs of 25, 50, or 100), pick a design or style, and enter any personalization details like your name and address. Citizens Bank will pre-fill most of this information from your account, so you mainly need to confirm it's correct. Review the total cost before you submit the order, since fees are added at checkout.
After you place the order, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot—you'll need it if you want to check on your order status or if there's a problem with delivery. Most orders ship within 1 to 2 business days and arrive 5 to 10 days later, though delivery times can be longer during busy periods.
Ordering checks by phone
Call Citizens Bank's customer service number, which is typically printed on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. Tell the representative you want to order checks. They'll ask for your account number to pull up your information and confirm your address.
The representative will walk you through the same choices you'd make online: quantity, design, and personalization. They can also answer questions about cost and delivery time before you commit to the order. Once you've decided, they'll process the order over the phone and give you a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records.
What information Citizens Bank needs from you
Citizens Bank requires your account number and routing number to process any check order. Your routing number is specific to Citizens Bank and the branch or region where your account is held. Both numbers appear on the bottom left of any check you already have, on deposit slips, or in your online banking account under account details.
You'll also need to confirm your current mailing address, since that's where the checks will be sent. If you've moved recently and haven't updated your address with Citizens Bank yet, do that before ordering—checks sent to an old address can be delayed or lost. You can update your address online or by calling customer service.
Check design options and costs
Citizens Bank offers standard checks at the lowest price, usually in black ink on white paper with your name and address printed on them. Designer or themed checks cost more but let you choose colors, patterns, or images. Novelty checks (oversized or with special designs) are the most expensive option.
The exact price depends on the quantity you order and the style you choose. Ordering 100 checks costs less per check than ordering 25, so buying in bulk saves money if you use checks regularly. Ask the representative or check the online ordering page for the current pricing on the style you want—prices can change and vary by region.
Delivery timeline and tracking your order
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the time Citizens Bank processes your order. Processing itself usually happens within 1 to 2 business days, so your total wait is typically 8 to 12 days from when you place the order. Expedited delivery may be available for an additional fee, though it's not offered in all regions.
Once your order ships, Citizens Bank will send you an email or text notification with tracking information (if available). You can also log into your online account and check the status of your order using the confirmation number you received. If your checks don't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact Citizens Bank with your confirmation number and they can investigate.
What to do if you need checks urgently
If you need checks before a standard order will arrive, ask Citizens Bank about expedited shipping when you place your order. Some regions offer 3 to 5 business day delivery for an extra fee. This is faster but not instant, so plan ahead if you have a specific deadline.
If expedited shipping isn't available or you need checks even sooner, ask your Citizens Bank branch if they can print temporary checks or provide you with starter checks—some branches keep these on hand for customers in urgent situations. You can also ask your bank about using electronic bill pay or transfers instead of checks while you wait for your order to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order checks if I have a joint account?
Yes. Both account holders can order checks, though the checks will typically show both names unless you specify otherwise. Contact Citizens Bank to confirm whose name appears on the checks and in what order, since some banks print the primary account holder's name first.
What if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?
Contact Citizens Bank immediately with your confirmation number and photos of the damage or error. They will reorder your checks at no charge and may expedite the replacement shipment. Keep the damaged checks until the replacement arrives in case the bank needs to see them.
Can I reorder the same checks without going through the whole process again?
Yes. If you order the same design and personalization, Citizens Bank's system will remember your previous order and let you reorder quickly online or by phone. This saves time if you use the same check style repeatedly.
Do I have to order checks from Citizens Bank, or can I use a third-party printer?
You can order from third-party check printers, though Citizens Bank checks are may provide to work with their systems. Third-party checks may cost less but take longer to arrive and sometimes cause issues with deposit processing. Weigh the cost savings against the risk before choosing an outside printer.
What's the difference between standard and designer checks?
Standard checks are plain white with black ink and cost the least. Designer checks offer colors, patterns, or images and cost more. Both work the same way for payments—the design is purely visual. Choose based on your budget and personal preference.