Most banks do not include checks with a new checking account — you order them separately and pay for them
When you open a checking account, the bank gives you a debit card and online access to your money. Checks are not automatic. You have to order them yourself, usually through the bank's website or by phone, and most banks charge you for them. The cost ranges from nothing to $15 or more per box of 25 checks, depending on the bank and the style you choose.
Some banks offer a small number of free checks as a promotional offer when you open an account, but this is not standard. Read the account terms or ask the banker directly before you sign up if free checks matter to you. Even then, "free" usually means one box only — you pay for refills.
A few banks and credit unions still include checks at no charge as part of their account package, but they are the exception. Most people who use checks regularly budget $10 to $20 per year for reorders.
Key Takeaways
- Banks do not automatically send checks when you open an account; you must order them separately and pay a fee.
- Check costs vary by bank and design, typically ranging from free to $15 per box of 25 checks.
- Some banks offer one free box as a new-account promotion, but you pay for replacements.
- You can order checks through your bank's website, by phone, or through third-party check printers, which are often cheaper.
- If you rarely write checks, you may not need to order them at all — many people use debit cards or digital payments instead.
How to order checks from your bank
Once your account is open, log into your online banking portal and look for a "order checks" or "check services" link, usually under settings or account management. You will choose the number of boxes, the style (standard, duplicate, or personalized), and confirm your address. Most banks deliver checks within 7 to 10 business days.
If you do not want to order online, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. A representative can place the order over the phone and tell you the exact cost and delivery date. Some banks also let you order checks in person at a branch.
You will need to provide your account number and routing number, which the bank already has on file. The bank prints your name, address, and account number on the checks automatically.
Third-party check printers are often cheaper
Banks are not the only source for checks. Companies like Costco, Walmart, Vistaprint, and specialty check printers sell checks directly to consumers, often at half the bank's price. A box of 100 checks from a third-party printer might cost $5 to $10, while the same box from your bank could cost $20 or more.
To order from a third party, you provide your account and routing number, and they print your checks with that information. The checks work exactly the same way as bank-printed checks — they clear through the same system. Delivery usually takes 5 to 10 business days.
The trade-off is that third-party printers offer less customization and no rush delivery. If you need checks in two days, your bank may be the only option, though some banks charge extra for expedited printing.
When you might not need to order checks at all
Many people open a checking account and never write a check. If you pay bills online through your bank's bill-pay service, use your debit card for purchases, or send money through apps like Venmo or Zelle, you have no reason to order checks. Checks are useful mainly for paying rent, making donations, or sending money to people or businesses that do not take cards or digital payments.
Before you order, think about whether you actually need them. If you are unsure, wait a few months and see whether a situation comes up where a check is the only option. You can always order later.
What happens if you run out of checks
If you have checks but run out before you need to reorder, you can write a check on a blank piece of paper in an emergency — it is legal as long as it contains all the required information: the date, the name of the person or business you are paying, the amount in numbers and words, your signature, and your account and routing numbers. However, most businesses will not accept a handwritten check on plain paper, so this is truly a last resort.
The better option is to order checks online or by phone right away. Most banks can print and ship checks within a week. If you need money to move faster, use a digital payment method instead.
Fees and account types that affect check costs
Some checking accounts come with perks that include free checks or discounted check orders. High-yield checking accounts, premium accounts, or accounts that require a minimum balance sometimes bundle free checks as part of the package. Student accounts and senior accounts may also offer reduced check costs.
Before you open an account, ask whether check ordering is included or discounted. If you write many checks, this benefit could save you $20 to $50 per year. Read the account disclosure document — it lists all fees, including check-ordering costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my checking account before my checks arrive?
Yes. Your debit card and online banking access work immediately or within one business day of opening the account. You do not need checks to use your account. You can withdraw cash, make purchases, pay bills online, and transfer money without ever ordering checks.
Do I have to order checks from my bank?
No. You can order from third-party printers like Costco, Walmart, or Vistaprint, which are often cheaper. The checks work the same way regardless of where you order them, as long as they include your account and routing number.
How much do checks cost?
Costs vary widely. Bank-printed checks typically cost $5 to $15 per box of 25. Third-party printers often charge $5 to $10 per box of 100. Some banks offer one free box with a new account, and a few include checks at no charge as part of the account package.
What if my bank charges too much for checks?
Switch to a bank with lower check costs, or order from a third-party printer instead. You are not locked into your bank's pricing. Compare costs across banks and printers before you commit to an account if check ordering is important to you.
Can I get checks the same day?
No bank or printer offers same-day check delivery. Most take 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited printing for an extra fee, which may reduce the timeline to 2 to 3 business days, but this is rare and costs more. If you need to pay someone urgently, use a digital payment method instead.