You can order checks from sources other than your bank, and you don't need a checking account to use them
Checks are not locked to checking accounts. You can order them from third-party printers, use them with a savings account, or even write checks against a money market account or certain business accounts. The bank or account type you hold does not determine whether you can get checks — what matters is whether your account is set up to support check writing, and whether you have routing and account numbers to print on them.
If your bank does not offer checks with your account type, or if you want cheaper checks than your bank charges, you have other routes. The most common are independent check printers like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and online services. Each has different pricing, turnaround times, and what information they need from you.
Key Takeaways
- Checks can be written from savings accounts, money market accounts, and business accounts — not only checking accounts — as long as the account supports check writing.
- Your bank may not print checks for every account type, but third-party printers will if you provide your routing number and account number.
- Independent check printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart often cost less than ordering through your bank.
- You need your routing number and account number to order checks from any source, whether your bank or a third-party printer.
Account types that support check writing
Most banks offer checks only with checking accounts, but some also allow checks on savings accounts, money market accounts, and certain business accounts. The account type determines how many checks you can write per month and whether there are fees. A savings account that allows checks might limit you to three to six checks per month before charging a fee, while a checking account typically has no limit.
Call your bank and ask whether your account type supports check writing. If it does, ask whether they print checks for that account or whether you need to order from elsewhere. Some banks print checks for savings accounts but charge more than they do for checking accounts. Others do not print them at all and direct you to third-party printers.
Ordering checks from your bank
If your bank prints checks for your account, you can order them through your online banking portal, by phone, or in person at a branch. The process is straightforward: you provide your account number (which the bank already has), confirm the check design, and pay the fee. Turnaround is usually one to two weeks for standard orders, though expedited options exist and cost more.
Bank-printed checks are convenient because they are may provide to work with your account, and your bank handles any errors. The downside is cost — banks typically charge $15 to $30 per box of 100 checks, sometimes more. If you write checks infrequently, this may be worth it. If you write them regularly, third-party printers are usually cheaper.
Third-party check printers and their costs
Independent check printers do not require you to have a checking account or to order through your bank. You provide your routing number and account number, choose a design, and they print the checks. The main printers are Deluxe, Walmart, Costco, and online-only services like Checks Unlimited and Carousel Checks.
Pricing varies widely. Walmart and Costco typically charge $10 to $15 per box of 100 checks and offer fast turnaround — sometimes same-day or next-day for in-store pickup. Deluxe and online printers range from $10 to $25 per box depending on design and speed. Some offer discounts for bulk orders or recurring shipments. If you order checks regularly, signing up for automatic reorders can cut the per-box cost by 20 to 30 percent.
The trade-off is that third-party printers do not know your bank's specific requirements. Most checks work fine, but if there is an error — a wrong routing number, for example — the printer is not responsible for fixing it. You have to catch the mistake before you use the checks. Always verify your routing and account numbers before you submit an order.
How to find your routing and account numbers
You need both numbers to order checks from any source. Your account number is on your debit card, in your online banking portal, or on a statement. Your routing number is the nine-digit code that identifies your bank's location within the Federal Reserve system. It is also on your statements and in your online banking portal, usually labeled "routing number" or "ABA number."
If you cannot find either number, call your bank. They will give you both over the phone. Do not guess or use a number from an old check if you have switched banks — a wrong routing number means checks will bounce or be rejected.
When your bank will not print checks for your account
Some banks refuse to print checks for savings accounts or other non-checking account types, even if the account supports check writing. In this case, a third-party printer is your only option. You will still need your routing and account numbers, and the checks will work the same way — they just come from a printer instead of your bank.
A few banks also restrict who can print checks for their accounts and do not allow third-party printers. This is rare, but if your bank has this policy, you have no choice but to order through them. Ask your bank directly whether they allow third-party check printing before you place an order elsewhere.
Checks and online banks
Online banks that do not have physical branches still issue routing numbers and support check writing on certain accounts. If your online bank offers checks, you order them the same way — through your online portal or by phone. If they do not, you can order from a third-party printer using your routing and account numbers.
Some online banks charge more for checks than traditional banks because they have no branch network to absorb the cost. Others offer them free or at a discount. Check your bank's fee schedule or call customer service to find out what they charge and how long delivery takes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write a check from a savings account?
Yes, if your bank allows check writing on that account. Many banks do allow it, though they may limit you to three to six checks per month before charging a fee. Call your bank to confirm whether your savings account supports checks and what the limits are.
What happens if I order checks with the wrong routing number?
Checks with an incorrect routing number will be rejected or sent to the wrong bank. The recipient will not be able to cash or deposit them. Always verify your routing number with your bank before you place an order, especially if you switched banks recently.
Do I need permission from my bank to order checks from a third-party printer?
Most banks do not require permission, but some restrict third-party printing. Call your bank and ask whether they allow checks printed by outside companies before you order. If they do not, you must order through them.
How long does it take to get checks from a third-party printer?
Walmart and Costco offer same-day or next-day pickup for in-store orders. Online printers typically take five to ten business days for standard delivery. Expedited shipping costs more and usually arrives in two to three business days.
Are checks from third-party printers as good as checks from my bank?
Yes, as long as your routing and account numbers are correct. The printer does not matter — the bank that processes the check only cares about the routing and account numbers. Third-party checks work exactly the same way as bank-printed checks.