You can get a cashier's check at a check-cashing store, money services center, or by opening a basic account at a credit union

A cashier's check is a check drawn on the business's own account rather than yours, which makes it safer for the person receiving it—banks and landlords trust it because the funds are already set aside. You do not need a bank account to obtain one, but your options are narrower and the cost is higher than if you did.

The most direct route is a check-cashing store or money services center like MoneyGram or Western Union. You bring cash, they issue the check, and you walk out with it the same day. The fee typically ranges from $5 to $15 depending on the check amount and the business. Some Walmart locations and grocery stores with money services counters also issue cashier's checks to non-customers.

A second option is to open a basic savings account at a credit union or community bank, then request the cashier's check immediately. Many credit unions have lower or no minimum balance requirements and will issue the check the same day. This takes 15 to 30 minutes and costs nothing if you keep the account open, though some charge a one-time fee of $5 to $10 for the check itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Check-cashing stores and money services centers issue cashier's checks to anyone with cash, no account required, for a fee of $5 to $15.
  • Credit unions and community banks often issue cashier's checks the same day after you open a basic account, which may cost less than a check-cashing store if you need multiple checks.
  • You must bring the exact amount in cash plus the fee, and you need to know the payee name and the amount before you arrive.
  • Cashier's checks typically clear within one to three business days, faster than personal checks but slower than wire transfers.

What to bring when you go to a check-cashing store

Bring cash for the full amount of the check plus the fee. If you need a $1,000 cashier's check and the fee is $10, bring $1,010 in cash. The business will not issue the check for less and will not accept a personal check or card payment—they need the money upfront to may provide the check's value.

Bring a photo ID. Most check-cashing stores require a driver's license, passport, or state ID to prevent fraud. Some may ask for a second form of ID or your Social Security number, especially for checks over $1,000.

Know the payee name and the exact amount before you arrive. Write these down or have them in your phone. The cashier's check will be made out to the specific person or business you name, and it cannot be changed once printed. If you make a mistake, you may have to pay another fee to void it and issue a new one.

Opening an account at a credit union to get a cashier's check

Credit unions often have fewer barriers than banks. Many have no minimum opening deposit, no monthly fees, and will issue a cashier's check the same day you open the account. Call ahead to confirm they issue cashier's checks and ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in.

Bring your photo ID, proof of address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and cash or a debit card to fund the account. You do not need much—$25 to $50 is often enough to open a savings account. The whole process takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Once the account is open, ask for the cashier's check. The fee is usually $5 to $10, and they will print it while you wait. You can close the account immediately after if you do not plan to use it, though some credit unions ask you to keep it open for a minimum time (often 30 days) to avoid a closure fee.

How long a cashier's check takes to clear

A cashier's check typically clears within one to three business days. The receiving bank must verify that the issuing bank has the funds, which takes longer than a wire transfer (which clears the same day or next day) but faster than a personal check (which can take five to seven business days).

The exact timeline depends on the banks involved and whether the check is deposited in person or remotely. A check deposited at a branch of the same bank as the issuer may clear overnight. A check deposited at a different bank usually clears within two to three business days.

Tell the person receiving the check when they can expect the funds to be available. If they need the money faster, a wire transfer or ACH transfer is better, though those require you to have a bank account.

Comparing the cost of check-cashing stores versus opening an account

If you need only one cashier's check, a check-cashing store is usually cheaper. A $10 fee is less than the time and effort of opening an account, even if the account has no opening fee.

If you need two or more cashier's checks within a short time, opening a credit union account may be cheaper overall. Two checks from a check-cashing store cost $20 to $30 in fees. Two checks from a credit union cost $10 to $20 in fees, and you keep the account for future use. If you already have a bank account elsewhere, ask your bank whether they issue cashier's checks to non-customers—some do for a small fee.

Factor in location and hours. Check-cashing stores are often open evenings and weekends. Banks and credit unions have shorter hours and may require an appointment. If you need the check urgently on a Saturday, a check-cashing store is your only option.

What to do if the check-cashing store or bank refuses you

Some check-cashing stores refuse to issue cashier's checks to people without an account, especially for large amounts. If this happens, try a different store—policies vary widely. Alternatively, open an account at a credit union, which has fewer restrictions.

If you are refused because of your ID, bring a second form of identification or ask what documents they need. If you do not have a photo ID, some check-cashing stores accept a combination of documents like a utility bill, lease, and Social Security card, though this varies by location and business.

If you need a cashier's check urgently and cannot get one, ask whether the recipient will accept a money order instead. Money orders are cheaper (usually $1 to $5) and available at the same check-cashing stores, though they have lower maximum amounts (often $500 to $1,000 per order).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check for more than $1,000 without a bank account?

Yes, but check-cashing stores may require additional ID or documentation for large amounts, and some have internal limits on how much they will issue in a single check. Call ahead to confirm they can issue the amount you need. Credit unions typically have higher limits and fewer restrictions for account holders.

What if I make a mistake on the cashier's check?

Once printed, a cashier's check cannot be corrected. You will need to void it and pay another fee to issue a new one. The voided check is worthless and should be destroyed. Always double-check the payee name and amount before the cashier prints it.

Is a cashier's check safer than a personal check?

Yes. A cashier's check is drawn on the business's account, so the funds are may provide. A personal check can bounce if your account does not have enough money. This is why landlords, courts, and large sellers often require a cashier's check instead of a personal check.

Can I deposit a cashier's check into an account at a different bank?

Yes. You can deposit a cashier's check at any bank, whether or not you have an account there. If you do not have an account, you may be able to cash it at the teller window, though some banks charge a fee for non-customers. Mobile deposit (photographing the check with your phone) requires an account at that bank.

What if the cashier's check is lost or stolen?

Contact the issuing business immediately and ask them to stop payment on the check. They can issue a replacement, though there may be a fee. If someone else cashes the check before you report it, recovery is difficult. Keep the receipt and any documentation of the original check until you confirm it has been deposited.