Most banks will issue a cashier's check, but not all branches carry them in stock
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account and signed by a bank officer, which makes it more secure than a personal check. Most banks that hold deposit accounts will issue one for you, but you need to go in person or call ahead—you cannot order one online or through mobile banking. The bank pulls the funds from your account immediately, so you need the money available when you request it.
Not every branch location keeps blank cashier's checks on hand. If you bank at a large national chain like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Chase, any branch can usually print one while you wait. If you bank at a smaller regional or community bank, call your branch first to confirm they have them available. Some credit unions issue cashier's checks too, though policies vary by institution.
The fee ranges from nothing to around $15, depending on your bank and account type. Some banks waive the fee for customers with premium checking accounts or high balances. Ask about the cost before you request one.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a bank branch in person or call ahead to order a cashier's check; mobile banking and online portals do not offer this service.
- The bank deducts the check amount from your account immediately, so you need sufficient funds available at the time of request.
- Most large banks can issue a cashier's check on the spot, but smaller banks may need advance notice or may not stock them.
- Fees typically range from $0 to $15, and some accounts waive the fee entirely.
- The recipient can cash or deposit a cashier's check at their own bank, and it usually clears within one to three business days.
What to bring when you go to the bank
Bring a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will verify your identity before issuing the check. You do not need to bring anything else, but it helps to know the exact amount and the name of the person or business the check should be made out to.
If you are ordering over the phone, the bank will verify your identity through questions about your account. Some banks require you to come in person anyway, so ask when you call.
How long a cashier's check takes to clear
A cashier's check clears faster than a personal check because the bank has already may provide the funds. Most banks deposit it into the recipient's account within one to three business days. Some banks clear them the same day, especially if both the issuing bank and the receiving bank are in the same network.
The recipient should not assume the money is available until their bank confirms the deposit. Cashier's checks can be forged, so some banks hold them longer if the amount is very large or if the check comes from an unfamiliar bank.
When a cashier's check is the right choice
Use a cashier's check when the recipient needs proof that the money is real and available. Common situations include large purchases (a car, a down payment on a house), security deposits for rental housing, or payments to government agencies. The recipient gets more certainty than with a personal check, and you get a record that the bank issued it.
Do not use a cashier's check if you need the money back quickly. Once the bank issues it, the funds are gone from your account. If the recipient loses the check or never cashes it, you will need to file a claim with the bank to get a refund, which can take weeks.
What to do if you lose a cashier's check or need to cancel it
If the check is lost or stolen, contact your bank immediately. The bank can place a stop payment on it, which prevents anyone else from cashing it. You will need to provide the check number, the amount, the date it was issued, and the name of the payee. Some banks charge a fee for a stop payment, usually $15 to $30.
If the recipient never cashed the check and you want your money back, ask the bank to cancel it. The bank will reverse the transaction and return the funds to your account. This process is simpler than a stop payment and usually does not cost anything, but it can take several business days.
Alternatives if your bank does not issue cashier's checks
If your bank does not offer cashier's checks or you cannot visit a branch, you have other options. A money order works similarly—you pay the amount upfront, and the issuer guarantees it. You can buy money orders at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and post offices for a small fee (usually $1 to $5). The downside is that money orders have lower limits, often capped at $500 to $1,000 per order.
A certified check is another option. Your bank certifies that you have enough money in your account to cover the check, then holds that amount. It is less secure than a cashier's check because your signature is still on it, but it costs less and some banks issue them faster. Ask your bank whether they offer certified checks and what the fee is.
For very large amounts or time-sensitive payments, a wire transfer moves money directly from your bank account to the recipient's bank account. Wire transfers are faster (often same-day) but cost more ($15 to $50) and cannot be reversed once sent.
How to spot a fake cashier's check
If you are receiving a cashier's check, verify it before you hand over goods or money. Call the bank that issued it using the phone number on the back of the check or from the bank's official website—do not use a number the payer gives you. Ask the bank to confirm that the check is real and that the amount is correct.
Watch for red flags: a check with a blurry logo, misspelled bank name, or unusual formatting. Scammers sometimes send fake cashier's checks to overpay for items sold online, asking you to wire back the difference. If a deal feels rushed or the amount is suspiciously high, it probably is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check on a weekend or after hours?
Most bank branches are closed on weekends and evenings, so you cannot get a cashier's check outside business hours. Some banks offer Saturday hours. Call your branch to ask when they are open, or plan ahead and get the check during the week.
What if I do not have enough money in my account right now?
You cannot get a cashier's check if you do not have the funds available. The bank deducts the full amount immediately. If you expect a deposit soon, wait until it clears, then request the check.
Can someone else pick up a cashier's check for me?
Most banks require the account holder to be present and show ID. Some banks allow a power of attorney or authorized signer to pick it up on your behalf, but you need to set that up in advance. Call your bank to ask about their policy.
How do I know if my bank charges a fee for cashier's checks?
Call your bank or check your account agreement. Many banks list the fee on their website under "Checking Account Fees" or "Service Charges." Premium accounts sometimes waive the fee, so ask whether you may have access to.
Can I get a cashier's check made out to two people?
Yes. Tell the teller both names and how you want them listed (for example, "John Smith and Jane Smith" or "John Smith or Jane Smith"). The bank will print both names on the check.