Most banks no longer send a checkbook automatically—you have to order one

When you open a checking account today, the bank will not put a checkbook in your hands or mail one to you unless you specifically ask for it. Some banks stopped including checks years ago; others still offer them but require you to request them during account setup or afterward through your online banking portal or by calling customer service.

Whether you get checks depends on the bank, the account type, and whether you ask. A few banks—mostly smaller regional banks and credit unions—still include a starter set of checks with new accounts, but this is becoming rare. Most large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo treat checks as an optional add-on you pay for when you need them.

If you need checks, you can order them from your bank, from a third-party printer like Deluxe or Costco, or sometimes through your bank's online portal at a lower cost than ordering directly from the bank itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks do not include checks with new checking accounts and require you to order them separately if you need them.
  • You can order checks through your bank's website, by phone, or through third-party check printers, which are often cheaper than ordering from the bank.
  • Some banks charge for checks; others offer a free starter set if you request it during account opening or shortly after.
  • If you rarely write checks, you may not need to order any—many people now use debit cards, online bill pay, or digital payment apps instead.

When banks include checks automatically

A small number of banks and credit unions still include checks as part of a new account package. This is most common at community banks, local credit unions, and some online banks that position themselves as full-service alternatives to national chains. Even then, the number of checks included is usually small—often 25 or 50—and labeled a "starter set."

If automatic checks matter to you, ask the bank directly before you open the account. Call their customer service line or ask during the account opening process online. The answer varies by institution and sometimes by account tier—a premium checking account might include checks while a basic one does not.

How to order checks after opening your account

If your bank does not send checks automatically, you have three main routes: order through your bank, order through a third-party printer, or order through your bank's online portal if that option is available.

Through your bank directly: Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or log into your online banking account and look for a "order checks" or "supplies" section. The bank will mail them to your address on file. Costs vary—some banks charge $10 to $20 per box of 25 checks, while others charge more. Delivery usually takes 7 to 14 business days.

Through a third-party printer: Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart offer checks at lower prices than most banks—sometimes $5 to $10 per box. You will need your routing number and account number, both found at the bottom left of any check or in your online banking portal. Delivery times vary but often take 5 to 10 business days. These checks are legal and work exactly like bank-issued checks.

Through your bank's online portal: Some banks now let you order checks directly through their app or website, sometimes at a lower price than calling customer service. This is worth checking first because it is often the fastest and cheapest option.

What checks cost and why

A box of 25 checks typically costs between $5 and $25 depending on where you order them. Banks charge more than third-party printers because they handle the order, printing, and shipping themselves. Third-party printers can undercut banks because they print checks for thousands of customers and spread their costs across volume.

Fancy checks—with your photo, custom designs, or premium paper—cost more, sometimes $15 to $30 per box. Basic checks with your name, address, and account number printed on them are the cheapest option.

If you write very few checks, the cost may not matter much. But if you write dozens of checks per month, ordering from a third-party printer can save you $50 to $100 per year compared to ordering from your bank.

Do you actually need checks?

Before you order, consider whether you really need them. Many people now pay bills online, use their debit card, or send money through apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle. Checks are still necessary for some situations—paying rent to a landlord who does not accept electronic payment, sending money to someone without a bank account, or paying certain government agencies or contractors.

If you have not written a check in years and do not expect to, you may not need to order any. If you move into an apartment and need to pay rent by check, or if you have a contractor who only takes checks, that is the time to order them.

Some people order a small box (25 checks) and keep them on hand just in case, then do not reorder for years. That is a reasonable middle ground if you are unsure.

How long checks take to arrive

Delivery time depends on where you order from. Bank-issued checks usually arrive in 7 to 14 business days. Third-party printers vary—some promise 5 to 7 business days, while others take 10 to 14 days. Expedited shipping is sometimes available for an extra fee, usually $5 to $10, and cuts delivery time to 3 to 5 business days.

If you need checks urgently—for example, you have to pay rent tomorrow—third-party printers sometimes offer next-day or two-day delivery, though the cost is higher. Check the printer's website for current delivery options before you order.

What information you need to order checks

To order checks, you will need your routing number and account number. Both are printed at the bottom of any check (if you have one from a previous account) or are visible in your online banking portal under account details. The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank; your account number is unique to your account.

You will also need to confirm your name and address as you want them printed on the checks. Make sure the spelling and address are correct before you submit the order—mistakes are expensive to fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my debit card instead of writing checks?

Yes, for most everyday purchases. But some landlords, contractors, and government agencies only accept checks. If you know you will need to write checks regularly, order them. If you rarely write checks, you can probably get by without them and order a box only when you need one.

What if I order checks and then close the account?

Unused checks become worthless once you close the account because the routing and account numbers no longer work. Do not order large quantities of checks if you think you might close the account soon. If you have leftover checks after closing, destroy them to prevent fraud.

Are third-party checks as good as bank checks?

Yes. Checks from Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and other printers are legal and work exactly like checks printed by your bank. Banks accept them without question. The only difference is price and sometimes design options.

How much does a box of checks cost?

A box of 25 basic checks costs $5 to $25 depending on where you order. Banks usually charge $10 to $20 per box. Third-party printers charge $5 to $15 per box. Fancy or custom checks cost more, sometimes $15 to $30 per box.

Can I order checks online right after opening my account?

Usually yes, but sometimes you have to wait a day or two for your account to fully activate in the system. Try logging into your online banking portal and looking for an "order checks" or "supplies" section. If it is not available yet, call customer service or try again the next day.