Yes, you can print checks directly from BB&T, but you need to set it up first

BB&T (now operating as Truist Financial Corporation after a 2019 merger) allows you to print checks from your checking account through their online banking platform. The process is not automatic — you have to request check printing through your account settings, and there are costs involved. BB&T does not mail you blank checks the way some banks do; instead, you order them through the bank's system or use a third-party printer that BB&T partners with.

The two main routes are ordering checks through BB&T directly or using an approved third-party printer. Which one you choose depends on how quickly you need the checks and how much you want to spend. Direct orders through BB&T tend to be more expensive but arrive faster and are may provide to work with your account. Third-party printers are cheaper but take longer.

Key Takeaways

  • BB&T allows check printing through online banking, but you must request it in your account settings first — it does not happen by default.
  • Ordering checks directly from BB&T costs more than third-party printers but arrives within one to two weeks.
  • Third-party printers approved by BB&T charge less per check but may take two to three weeks for delivery.
  • You can also use mobile check deposit or bill pay as alternatives if you need to send money without printing physical checks.

How to order checks through BB&T online banking

Log into your BB&T online account and look for the "Checks" or "Order Checks" option, usually found under account services or settings. Click through to the check ordering page and select your checking account. You will see options for check style, quantity, and delivery speed. BB&T typically offers standard checks (the most common type) and may offer designer or duplicate checks at higher prices.

Enter the quantity you want — most banks sell checks in boxes of 25, 50, or 100. Choose your delivery method: standard delivery usually takes one to two weeks, and expedited delivery (if available) costs extra but arrives faster. Review the total cost, which includes the checks themselves plus any shipping or rush fees. Complete the order and you should receive a confirmation email with a tracking number once the checks ship.

Checks ordered through BB&T will have your account number, routing number, and bank information pre-printed, so they are ready to use when they arrive. Do not use checks from another account or bank — they will not clear properly.

Using a third-party printer approved by BB&T

BB&T partners with third-party check printers to offer a lower-cost option. These printers are listed in your online banking account under check ordering options. The most common partner is Deluxe or similar national check printing companies. Ordering through these partners works the same way as ordering through BB&T: log in, select the printer option, choose your check style and quantity, and pay.

Third-party printers are usually 30 to 50 percent cheaper than ordering directly from BB&T, but delivery takes longer — typically two to three weeks instead of one to two. The checks are still personalized with your account information and work exactly the same way. If cost matters more than speed, this is the better route.

Make sure you order only from printers listed in your BB&T account. Ordering checks from an unapproved printer or a generic online check company can result in checks that do not work with your account or that BB&T will not honor.

What to do if you need checks right away

If you need to send money before checks arrive, you have several faster options. Bill pay through BB&T lets you send money directly to a company or person without a check — you enter the payee's information and BB&T mails a check on your behalf or transfers the money electronically. This usually takes one to three business days and costs nothing.

Mobile check deposit works in reverse: if someone sends you a check, you photograph it with the BB&T mobile app and deposit it without going to a branch. This does not help you send money, but it speeds up receiving it.

For immediate payments, a debit card or wire transfer through BB&T works faster than any check. Wire transfers cost a fee (usually $15 to $30) but arrive the same day or next business day. Debit card payments are instant but only work where the payee accepts cards.

Costs and what to expect

BB&T charges for check orders. The exact price depends on the check style, quantity, and whether you order through BB&T or a third-party printer. Standard checks through BB&T typically cost $15 to $30 per box of 25, depending on your account type and any promotions. Third-party printers usually charge $10 to $20 per box. Some BB&T account tiers (like premium or business accounts) may include free check orders, so check your account terms.

Shipping is usually included in the price, but expedited delivery adds $5 to $15. Designer checks or duplicate checks (with a carbon copy) cost more. Once you place an order, you cannot cancel it, so make sure you have the right account selected and the correct quantity before confirming.

Troubleshooting checks that do not work

If you receive checks and they do not clear, the most common reason is that you ordered them for the wrong account. Double-check the account number printed on the check against your account statement. If the numbers do not match, contact BB&T and do not use those checks.

If the checks are correct but a merchant says they will not accept them, the issue is usually on the merchant's side — some businesses no longer take personal checks. Ask if they accept bill pay or electronic payment instead. If a check you wrote bounces or is rejected, log into your BB&T account and check your balance and recent transactions to see if there was a problem with the account itself.

If you ordered checks from an unapproved printer and they are not working, contact BB&T customer service. They can tell you whether the checks are valid for your account. If they are not, you will need to order new checks from an approved source.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get checks after I order them?

Standard delivery through BB&T takes one to two weeks. Third-party printers take two to three weeks. Expedited options may be available for an extra fee and can arrive within five to seven business days, depending on the printer.

Can I order checks from somewhere other than BB&T?

You can order from third-party printers, but only those listed in your BB&T online account. Ordering from an unapproved printer risks receiving checks that do not work with your account. Always order through your BB&T account or an approved partner.

What if I run out of checks before my order arrives?

Use bill pay to send money without a check, or ask the payee if they accept electronic payment or debit card. You can also visit a BB&T branch and ask if they have temporary checks available, though this is not may provide.

Do I have to pay for checks every time I order?

Yes, unless your account type includes free check orders. Some premium or business accounts waive the fee. Check your account terms or call BB&T to see if you may have access to for free orders.

What happens if I order checks for the wrong account?

The checks will be printed with the wrong account number and will not work. Do not use them. Contact BB&T and order new checks for the correct account. You cannot cancel an order after it is placed, so the wrong checks are a loss.