Most banks no longer send a checkbook automatically, but you can order one free or pay a small fee
Whether you receive a checkbook depends on your bank and the account type you open. Many large banks stopped including free checkbooks with new accounts around 2015, when digital payments became standard. Some banks still offer them at no cost, while others charge $10 to $25 per book. A few banks require you to request one explicitly before they'll send it. The bank's welcome materials or account agreement will tell you what applies to your account.
If you want checks and your bank doesn't include them, you can order them directly from the bank, from a third-party printer like Deluxe or Costco, or sometimes through your online banking portal. Third-party printers are usually cheaper—often $5 to $15 per box of 200 checks—but take longer to arrive. Bank-ordered checks arrive faster but cost more.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks do not include a free checkbook with new checking accounts, though some regional and credit union accounts still do.
- If your bank does not send checks automatically, you can order them through your online banking portal, by phone, or from an outside printer.
- Bank-ordered checks cost $15 to $25 per box and arrive in 5 to 10 business days; third-party printers cost $5 to $15 and take 7 to 14 days.
- You do not need a physical checkbook to use your checking account—you can pay bills online, by phone, or with a debit card from day one.
Which banks still send free checkbooks with new accounts
Credit unions and smaller regional banks are more likely to include a free checkbook than national chains. Navy Federal Credit Union, USAA, and many local credit unions send checks automatically. Some community banks also include them as a standard account feature. However, this varies by institution and account tier—premium accounts are more likely to include checks than basic ones.
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank typically do not include checks. They may offer them for a fee or require you to order them separately. If you have an account with one of these banks, check your welcome packet or log into your online banking to see whether checks are available and at what cost.
How to order checks if your bank doesn't send them
The fastest way is through your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks have a "Order Checks" link in the account services section. You'll select the check design, quantity, and delivery speed. Standard delivery takes 5 to 10 business days; expedited options cost extra and arrive in 2 to 5 days.
You can also call your bank's customer service line and request checks by phone. They'll ask for your account number, mailing address, and preferred check design. Some banks mail an order form you can fill out and return.
Third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, Sam's Club, and Walmart offer cheaper checks if you're willing to wait longer. You'll need your routing number and account number, which appear on any deposit slip or statement. These printers typically charge $5 to $15 per box of 200 checks and take 7 to 14 business days to deliver. Costco and Sam's Club require membership but often have the lowest prices.
Costs and timing for different ordering methods
| Ordering Method | Cost per Box | Delivery Time | How to Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank (standard) | $15–$25 | 5–10 business days | Online banking, phone, or in branch |
| Bank (expedited) | $25–$40 | 2–5 business days | Online banking or phone |
| Deluxe | $8–$15 | 7–14 business days | Deluxe.com |
| Costco | $6–$10 | 7–14 business days | Costco.com or in store (membership required) |
| Walmart | $7–$12 | 7–14 business days | Walmart.com or in store |
You don't need checks to use your account right away
A checkbook is not required to access your money. On the day you open your account, you can pay bills online through your bank's bill pay service, transfer money to other accounts, use your debit card for purchases, and withdraw cash at ATMs. Many people never order checks because they handle all payments digitally.
Checks are useful for specific situations: paying rent or a mortgage to a landlord who doesn't accept electronic payments, sending money to someone without a bank account, or paying contractors or service providers who prefer checks. If you don't anticipate needing checks in the first few weeks, you can wait to order them until you actually need them.
What to do if you need checks before they arrive
If you need to write a check immediately and your bank hasn't sent one, ask whether the bank can issue a counter check—a temporary check printed on the spot at a branch. Not all banks offer this, and some charge a small fee, but it solves the problem if you need to pay someone today.
Alternatively, you can ask the person or business you're paying whether they accept electronic payment, a bank transfer, or a money order instead. A money order from a grocery store or post office costs $1 to $3 and arrives instantly, though it's not a permanent solution.
Checks with your name and account number printed on them
When you order checks, they will be printed with your name, account number, and routing number. The bank or printer needs this information to process your order correctly. Make sure the address on file with your bank is current before you order, because that's where the checks will be mailed.
If you move after ordering checks, you can still use them—the address printed on the check doesn't affect whether it clears. However, if your name changes or you close the account, do not use old checks. Destroy them or contact your bank for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my checking account without a checkbook?
Yes. You can pay bills online, transfer money between accounts, use your debit card, and withdraw cash from ATMs without ever ordering checks. Many people manage their checking accounts entirely through digital payments and never use a physical check.
How long does it take to get checks from my bank?
Standard delivery from your bank takes 5 to 10 business days. Expedited options are available for an extra fee and arrive in 2 to 5 business days. Third-party printers take 7 to 14 business days but cost less.
What if I order checks and then close my account?
Contact your bank immediately and ask them to cancel the order if it hasn't shipped yet. If the checks have already been delivered, destroy them or return them to the bank. Do not use checks from a closed account—they will be rejected.
Can I order checks from somewhere other than my bank?
Yes. Third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and Sam's Club print checks using your routing and account number. They're cheaper than bank-ordered checks but take longer to arrive. Make sure you provide the correct routing and account numbers to avoid printing errors.
Do I have to order checks in person at the bank?
No. Most banks let you order checks online through your account portal or by phone. You can also mail in an order form or visit a branch in person, but online ordering is usually the fastest option.