Not every bank will issue a cashier's check, and the ones that do have different rules about who can get one.
Most banks and credit unions that hold deposit accounts will issue a cashier's check to their own customers. Some will issue one to non-customers, but they may charge a higher fee or require you to come in person. A few banks—mostly online-only institutions—do not issue cashier's checks at all. The fastest way to find out what your bank offers is to call the branch directly or log into your online account and look for the option in the bill pay or check services menu.
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, not yours. The bank guarantees the funds are there, which is why landlords, title companies, and courts accept them when they won't take a personal check. Because the bank is liable for the amount, they verify you have the money before they issue it—either by deducting it from your account immediately or by requiring you to pay cash upfront.
Key Takeaways
- Your own bank or credit union will almost always issue a cashier's check if you have a deposit account with them, usually within the same business day.
- Non-customers can sometimes get a cashier's check from a bank, but fees are often higher and you may need to visit in person with cash or a personal check.
- Online-only banks typically do not issue cashier's checks because they have no physical branches; you will need to use a different bank or a check-cashing service.
- The bank will hold the funds immediately when you request a cashier's check, so the money leaves your account right away even if you do not pick it up for several days.
How to get a cashier's check from your own bank
If you have a checking or savings account at a traditional bank or credit union, go to any branch in person, call the branch, or use the online banking portal. Tell them the amount you need and who the check should be made out to. The bank will verify the funds are in your account, deduct the amount, and issue the check. Most banks do this on the same day or within one business day.
Some banks let you request a cashier's check online through their bill pay system or mobile app. If that option is available, you will see it listed under "Services" or "Checks." You will enter the payee name, amount, and delivery method—usually pick up at a branch or mail to an address. The bank will send you a confirmation and tell you when the check is ready.
Bring a photo ID when you pick up the check in person. If you requested it by phone or online, the bank may mail it to you, but delivery takes three to seven business days depending on the postal service. If you need the check urgently, pick it up at the branch instead.
Getting a cashier's check as a non-customer
Some banks will issue a cashier's check to someone without an account, but the process is slower and more expensive. You will usually need to visit a branch in person with cash or a personal check for the full amount. The bank will hold your payment while they issue the check, which can take one to three business days. Fees for non-customers are typically $10 to $20, compared to $0 to $10 for account holders.
Not all branches accept non-customer requests, especially at large national banks. Call ahead to confirm the branch near you will do it. Smaller regional banks and credit unions are more likely to help. If the bank declines, a check-cashing service or money order service may offer an alternative, though those have their own limits on amount and fees.
Why online banks cannot issue cashier's checks
Banks that operate only online—such as Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, or Discover Bank—do not have physical branches, so they cannot issue cashier's checks in person. Some online banks partner with other institutions to offer limited services, but cashier's checks are rarely one of them. If your primary account is at an online bank, you will need to use a different bank's branch or find an alternative payment method.
If you need a cashier's check and your bank is online-only, open a free account at a local bank or credit union just to get the check. You do not need to keep money in it after the transaction. Alternatively, ask the person or organization requesting the cashier's check whether they will accept a wire transfer, ACH transfer, or certified check instead—some will, and those can be done online.
Timing and fees for cashier's checks
Cashier's checks issued in person at a branch are usually ready the same day or next business day. If you request one online or by phone, allow one to three business days for processing before you can pick it up or have it mailed. If the check needs to be mailed, add another three to seven business days for postal delivery.
Fees vary by bank. Account holders typically pay $0 to $10 per cashier's check. Non-customers pay $10 to $20. Some banks charge extra if you request rush processing or delivery by courier. Credit unions often charge less than banks. Ask about the fee when you request the check so there are no surprises.
What happens after you get the cashier's check
Once you have the check, the funds are already gone from your account—the bank deducted them when you requested it. If you lose the check or it is stolen, contact the bank immediately. They can issue a replacement, but they may require you to sign an indemnity agreement (a promise to repay them if the original check is cashed). This process can take 30 to 90 days, so do not lose the check.
If you change your mind and do not want to use the check, you can ask the bank to cancel it and refund the money to your account. This is usually free if you do it before the check is cashed. After it is cashed, the transaction is final and cannot be reversed.
Alternatives if you cannot get a cashier's check
If your bank will not issue a cashier's check or you do not have time to get one, consider these options. A certified check is similar—it is a personal check that your bank certifies has sufficient funds. Most banks issue certified checks for the same fee as cashier's checks and in the same timeframe. A wire transfer or ACH transfer moves money directly from your bank account to another account and leaves no physical check. Some organizations will not accept these, but many will. A money order can be purchased at banks, post offices, and check-cashing services for a small fee, though they have lower maximum amounts (usually $500 to $1,000 per order).
Ask the person or organization requesting payment which methods they will accept. If they say "cashier's check only," ask whether a certified check or wire transfer would work instead. Many will say yes once you explain your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check from a bank where I do not have an account?
Some banks will issue one to non-customers, but you must visit in person with cash or a personal check, and fees are higher. Call the branch first to confirm they offer this service—many large banks do not. If they decline, try a smaller regional bank or credit union nearby.
How long does it take to get a cashier's check?
Same-day or next-business-day if you request it in person at a branch. If you request it online or by phone, allow one to three business days for processing. If the bank mails it to you, add three to seven more business days for delivery.
What if I lose the cashier's check after I pick it up?
Contact your bank immediately. They can issue a replacement, but they may require an indemnity agreement and the process can take 30 to 90 days. Until then, the funds are tied up. Do not lose the check.
Will my online bank issue a cashier's check?
No. Online banks have no physical branches and do not issue cashier's checks. Use a local bank or credit union instead, or ask whether the recipient will accept a wire transfer or certified check.
Is there a limit to how much a cashier's check can be for?
Most banks have no set limit, but they may require advance notice for very large amounts (over $10,000). Some banks report large cashier's checks to the IRS for tax purposes. Call your bank to ask about their policy for the amount you need.