Your bank, a check printer, or an online service can all print checks for you
You have three main routes: order through your bank directly, use a third-party check printer, or order online from a service that ships to you. Your bank is the slowest but most straightforward. Third-party printers are cheaper and faster. Online services fall somewhere in between and often let you design custom checks.
The choice depends on how soon you need them, how much you want to spend, and whether you care about the design. All three methods produce checks that work identically in your account — the bank doesn't care where the physical check came from, as long as your routing number and account number are correct.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank can order checks for you, but it typically takes one to two weeks and costs more than third-party options.
- Third-party check printers like Deluxe and Costco Checks are faster (three to five business days) and cost roughly half what banks charge.
- Online check services let you upload a logo or custom design and ship within a week, though they cost more than basic printers.
- You need your routing number, account number, and account holder name to order through any method — your bank statement has all three.
- Reorder checks before you run out, since most methods take at least three business days and you cannot use your account without them.
Ordering checks directly from your bank
Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking portal — most banks have a "order checks" link in the account settings. You will provide your account number (which the bank already has) and choose a design from their limited selection. Cost ranges from $15 to $30 per box of 100, depending on the bank.
Delivery takes one to two weeks. This is the slowest option, but it is the safest if you are unsure whether your account information is correct — the bank will catch errors before printing. If you are in a hurry, this is not your route.
Third-party check printers: faster and cheaper
Companies like Deluxe, Costco Checks, and Walmart Checks print checks for less money and ship faster than banks do. A box of 100 standard checks costs $8 to $15, and delivery is usually three to five business days. Some offer rush shipping for an extra fee if you need them in two days.
You will need to enter your routing number, account number, and account holder name when you order. These are on your bank statement or in your online banking portal. Double-check them before you submit — a mistake here means the checks will not work. Most third-party printers let you review a proof before they print, so take that step seriously.
Costco Checks and Walmart Checks are particularly cheap because they are tied to those retailers' membership or shopping platforms. Deluxe is the largest independent printer and offers the widest range of designs and customization options while still staying cheaper than banks.
Online check services with custom designs
If you want a logo, custom colors, or a business name on your checks, services like Vistaprint, Zazzle, and Shutterfly let you upload images and design the layout. Costs run $20 to $40 per box because of the customization, and shipping takes five to seven business days. Some offer expedited shipping.
These services work the same way as third-party printers — you provide your routing and account numbers, review a proof, and wait for delivery. The main difference is the design flexibility. If you run a small business or just want checks that look different from the standard blue or black, this is worth the extra cost and time.
What information you need before you order
Every check printer needs three pieces of information from you: your routing number, your account number, and your account holder name (exactly as it appears on your account). All three are on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or on a check you already have.
If you have a joint account, the account holder name should match what your bank has on file. If you are unsure, call your bank before ordering — printing checks with the wrong name means they will not clear. The routing number is specific to your bank and branch; the account number is specific to you. Both must be exact.
How to avoid delays and mistakes
Order checks before you run out. Most methods take at least three business days, and you cannot write checks if you do not have them. If you are down to your last box, order now rather than waiting until you are out.
Review the proof before the printer ships. Every service shows you what the checks will look like — check that your name is spelled correctly, that the routing and account numbers match your bank statement, and that the design is what you wanted. This is your last chance to catch errors.
If you are ordering from a third-party printer for the first time, test one check before you rely on the whole box. Deposit it or use it for a small transaction to confirm it clears. This catches any data entry mistakes without wasting the entire order.
What to do if your checks do not arrive or do not work
If your order does not arrive by the promised date, contact the printer's customer service with your order number. Most will reship at no charge or refund you. Keep your order confirmation email until the checks arrive.
If the checks arrive but do not clear when you try to use them, the problem is almost always a mistake in the routing or account number. Call your bank immediately and have them verify what is printed on the check. If it is wrong, contact the printer and request a reprint with the correct information. Do not try to use checks with wrong numbers — they will bounce and may trigger overdraft fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order checks from a printer my bank does not recommend?
Yes. Banks often recommend their own check printers to make money, but any printer that has your correct routing and account numbers will produce checks that work. Your bank does not care where the physical check came from — only that the numbers are right.
How long do checks take to arrive?
Banks take one to two weeks. Third-party printers take three to five business days. Online design services take five to seven business days. Most offer rush shipping for an extra fee if you need them faster. Order before you run out, since all methods take at least several days.
What if I made a mistake when I ordered and gave the wrong account number?
Contact the printer immediately and ask to cancel before they print. If they have already printed, you will need to order a new box with the correct number. Checks with wrong account numbers will not clear and cannot be used.
Do I need to tell my bank I ordered checks from a third-party printer?
No. Your bank does not need to know where your checks came from. As long as the routing and account numbers are correct, the checks will work exactly like ones ordered from the bank.
Can I order checks online if I do not have a computer?
Most printers require an online order, but you can call your bank directly and order through them by phone. It will be slower and more expensive, but it is an option if you cannot order online.