Yes, you can get a cashier's check from a savings account

A cashier's check is a check the bank itself writes and guarantees, using money from your account. You walk in or call your bank, give them the amount and who to make it payable to, and they print it on their own check stock. The bank's name and routing number appear on the check, not yours, which is why recipients trust it — the bank has already removed the money from your savings account and set it aside.

You do not need a checking account to get one. Any bank that holds your savings account can issue a cashier's check. The process is the same whether you have a checking account or not: you provide the payee name, the amount, and the bank deducts it from your savings balance immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • Cashier's checks are issued by the bank itself and may provide by the bank, so they carry no risk of bouncing.
  • You can request one from your savings account at any branch, by phone, or sometimes online, depending on your bank.
  • The bank charges a fee, usually between $5 and $15, though some banks waive it for customers who meet account requirements.
  • The money leaves your savings account immediately when the check is issued, even if the recipient does not cash it for weeks.
  • Cashier's checks typically arrive within one business day if ordered by phone or online, or instantly if you visit a branch in person.

How to order a cashier's check from your bank

Contact your bank through whichever channel is fastest for you. Most banks let you request one in person at a branch, by phone during business hours, or through their website or mobile app. When you call or go online, have the payee name spelled correctly, the exact dollar amount, and your account number ready.

The bank will confirm the amount is available in your savings account, deduct it immediately, and either print the check on the spot (if you are at a branch) or mail it to you or make it available for pickup. Some banks charge a fee at the time of issue; others deduct it from your account. Ask whether your bank waives the fee for certain account types — many do for premium savings or checking accounts, or for customers who maintain a minimum balance.

Fees and timing

Cashier's check fees range from $5 to $15 per check at most banks, though some credit unions charge less. A few banks include a certain number of free cashier's checks per month or year as part of their account benefits. Call your bank's customer service line or check your account agreement to find out what you will pay.

If you order in person at a branch, you walk out with the check the same day. If you order by phone or online, expect the check to arrive by mail within one to three business days, or to be ready for pickup at your branch within one business day. Some banks offer expedited delivery for an extra fee. The money is held in your account from the moment you request it, so it will not be available to spend even if the check has not been picked up yet.

Why recipients prefer cashier's checks

A cashier's check is may provide by the bank, so the recipient knows the money is real and will not bounce. Personal checks can fail if your account does not have enough money or if you stop payment. A cashier's check cannot — the bank has already taken the money out of your account and is backing the check with its own funds.

This is why landlords, car dealers, and title companies often ask for a cashier's check instead of a personal check or cash. It proves you have the money and the bank has verified it. For large purchases or payments, a cashier's check is often the safest option for both you and the recipient.

What to do if you lose a cashier's check

If the check is lost, stolen, or destroyed before the recipient cashes it, contact your bank immediately. The bank can put a stop payment on the check and issue a replacement. You may have to sign an affidavit stating the check was lost or not received, and the bank may charge a stop-payment fee (usually $25 to $35) on top of the fee for the replacement check.

The bank will typically wait 90 days after the original check was issued before refunding the money if it has not been cashed. This protects against the original check showing up later. If you need the money sooner, ask the bank whether they can refund it faster — some will if you sign an indemnity agreement promising to repay them if the original check is cashed.

Cashier's checks versus other payment methods

A cashier's check is more secure than a personal check but slower and more expensive than a wire transfer or ACH payment. If the recipient needs the money the same day, a wire transfer from your savings account is faster, though wire fees are usually higher ($15 to $30). If the recipient is another person and you have their bank details, an ACH transfer is cheaper and takes one to three business days.

For in-person transactions or when you need a physical document that proves payment, a cashier's check is the right choice. For bills or recurring payments, ACH or online bill pay is simpler. For urgent transfers between banks, a wire is faster. Ask the recipient which method they prefer — they may accept ACH or a personal check if you can provide proof of funds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check if my savings account does not have enough money?

No. The bank will not issue a cashier's check if your account balance is lower than the amount you are requesting. If you are short, deposit more money first or request a smaller amount. The bank verifies the balance before issuing the check.

Do I need to go to my bank's branch, or can I order online?

Most banks let you order by phone or online, and many will mail it to you or hold it for pickup. Ordering in person at a branch is fastest if you need the check the same day. Call your bank to confirm whether they offer online or phone ordering and how long delivery takes.

What if the recipient never cashes the cashier's check?

The money stays deducted from your account. After 90 days (the time varies by bank), you can ask the bank to put a stop payment on the check and refund the money to your account. You may have to pay a stop-payment fee. Contact your bank to start the process.

Is a cashier's check safer than sending money by wire?

Both are safe, but in different ways. A wire transfer is faster and irreversible once sent. A cashier's check is slower but gives you time to cancel it if something goes wrong before the recipient cashes it. For large amounts, ask the recipient which they prefer.

Can I request a cashier's check over the phone if I do not have online banking?

Yes. Call your bank's customer service number, provide your account number and the check details, and they will process it. The check will be mailed to you or held for pickup. Expect it to arrive within one to three business days.