Yes, you can order checks from your bank, and most banks offer this as a standard service
When you open a checking account, the bank does not automatically send you checks. You have to order them separately, either through your bank's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most banks charge for checks — the cost varies from $10 to $30 per box of 50 checks, depending on the bank and the style you choose. Some banks waive the fee for certain account types, like premium or business accounts.
The fastest way to order checks is usually through your bank's online banking portal. Log in, look for a section called "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks," and follow the steps. You can choose the design, quantity, and delivery speed. Standard delivery takes one to two weeks. Expedited delivery costs extra but can arrive in three to five business days.
If you do not have online access or prefer to order by phone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. A representative can walk you through the order and answer questions about cost and timing.
Key Takeaways
- You must order checks separately from your bank after opening a checking account — they do not come automatically.
- Most banks charge $10 to $30 per box of 50 checks, though some waive the fee for premium account holders.
- Online ordering through your bank's website is the fastest and easiest method, with standard delivery in one to two weeks.
- If you need checks urgently, ask about expedited shipping options, which typically cost extra but arrive in three to five business days.
- Some banks allow you to order checks through third-party vendors, which may offer lower prices or more design options.
Ordering checks through your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a link labeled "Order Checks," "Reorder Checks," or "Check Services." The exact wording depends on your bank. Click the link and you will see a form asking for the quantity of checks you want, the style or design, and your delivery address.
Choose how many boxes you need. A standard box contains 50 checks. Most people order one or two boxes at a time. The form will show you the price before you confirm the order. Review the total cost, including any shipping fees, then submit your order. Your bank will send you a confirmation email with an order number and estimated delivery date.
Standard delivery usually takes seven to fourteen business days. If you need checks faster, look for an expedited option on the same form. Expedited shipping typically costs $5 to $15 extra and cuts the delivery time to three to five business days.
Ordering checks by phone or at a branch
Call your bank's customer service line — the number is on your debit card, your bank statement, or your bank's website. Tell the representative you want to order checks. They will ask for your account number, the quantity you want, and your mailing address. They can also tell you the current price and delivery timeline.
If you prefer to order in person, visit a branch during business hours. Bring your debit card or account number. A teller can process your order on the spot and give you a receipt with your order number and expected delivery date. This method is useful if you have questions about check styles or want to see samples before you order.
Third-party check vendors and lower-cost options
Some banks allow you to order checks through third-party vendors like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart instead of ordering directly from the bank. These vendors often charge less — sometimes $5 to $15 per box instead of $20 to $30. The tradeoff is that delivery may take longer, and you need to make sure the vendor has your correct routing number and account number.
Before ordering from a third party, check your bank's website or call customer service to confirm that your bank accepts checks from outside vendors. Most do, but some require you to order through them. If your bank allows it, the vendor's website will have a form where you enter your bank and account information. Double-check all the numbers before you submit — an error in the routing number or account number will make the checks unusable.
What to do if you need checks right away
If you need to write checks before your order arrives, ask your bank about temporary options. Some banks can print a few starter checks for you at the branch while you wait for your full order. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and may cost $5 to $10.
Another option is to use your debit card or mobile payment app instead of checks for the time being. Many bills and payments that once required checks can now be paid online or through your bank's bill pay service. If you absolutely must write a check, ask the person or business you are paying whether they can wait a week or two for your checks to arrive.
Checking account features that replace the need for checks
Modern checking accounts come with alternatives to paper checks that are often faster and more secure. Bill pay lets you schedule payments to almost any business or person directly from your bank's website or app. Mobile payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle let you send money to friends and family instantly. Debit cards work anywhere checks do and are accepted almost universally.
Many people still need checks for certain situations — paying rent to a landlord who does not accept electronic payments, mailing a check to a government agency, or paying a contractor who prefers paper. But for everyday bills and personal payments, electronic methods are often faster and leave a clearer record of the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Standard delivery takes seven to fourteen business days from the date you place your order. Expedited shipping, which costs extra, typically arrives in three to five business days. Some banks offer rush delivery for an additional fee if you need checks even faster.
Can I order checks if I just opened my account?
Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is active and you have received your account number. Some banks allow you to order checks during the account opening process itself, so they arrive shortly after your debit card.
What happens if I order checks from a third-party vendor and my bank does not accept them?
The checks will not work because they will have the wrong routing number or account number. Before ordering from any vendor other than your bank, confirm in writing that your bank accepts checks from that vendor. Most do, but it is worth verifying first.
Do I have to pay for checks every time I order them?
Most banks charge a fee each time you order checks, though the cost is usually $10 to $30 per box. Some account types — like premium or business accounts — include free check ordering. Ask your bank whether your account includes this benefit.
Can I get checks printed with a different name on them?
Your checks must have your name and account number as they appear in your bank's records. If you need checks with a business name, you will need a business checking account. Contact your bank about opening one and the process for ordering business checks.