Where to get a cashier's check without an account
You can get a cashier's check from a bank or credit union even if you don't have an account there. Walk in with cash or a debit card, tell the teller you want a cashier's check, and they'll issue one on the spot—usually for a fee between $5 and $15. Some banks require you to be a customer; others don't. Call ahead to confirm, because policies vary by branch and institution.
If you don't want to visit a bank, you can also buy a cashier's check from a check-cashing store, though the fee is typically higher (often $10 to $25). Some grocery stores and pharmacies with financial services counters offer them too, but availability is limited and you should call first.
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account and signed by a bank officer, which makes it more trustworthy than a personal check. The recipient knows the funds are already set aside because the bank guarantees it. This is why landlords, car dealers, and title companies often require them for large transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks and credit unions will issue a cashier's check to non-customers if you pay in cash or with a debit card and cover the fee.
- Call the bank branch before you go, because some institutions only issue cashier's checks to account holders.
- Check-cashing stores and some grocery stores offer cashier's checks, but fees are usually higher than at banks.
- You'll need to know the exact amount and the payee's name before you arrive, because the check cannot be altered once issued.
- The process takes 10 to 15 minutes at most branches, and you receive the check immediately.
Which banks issue cashier's checks to non-customers
Major national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank will generally issue a cashier's check to someone without an account, but policies differ by branch. Some branches are stricter than others, and a few may refuse outright. Your best move is to call the specific branch where you plan to go and ask directly: "Can I get a cashier's check if I'm not a customer?"
Credit unions are often more flexible than banks. If you're a member of any credit union, you can usually get a cashier's check there. If you're not a member, call ahead—many credit unions will still issue one for a small fee, though some restrict this to members only.
Community banks and smaller regional banks vary widely. Some welcome non-customers; others don't. Again, a phone call takes 30 seconds and saves you a wasted trip.
What you need to bring and know before you go
Bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). You'll also need to bring cash or a debit card to pay for the check itself plus the fee. Some banks accept checks from other banks, but cash is safest if you're unsure.
Before you arrive, know the exact dollar amount and the full name of the person or business the check should be made out to. You cannot change these details once the check is printed, so double-check the spelling of the payee's name. If you're paying a company, use their legal business name, not a shortened version.
Ask whether the bank needs advance notice for large amounts. Most branches can issue a cashier's check for any amount on the spot, but some may require a call ahead for checks over $5,000 or $10,000 to ensure they have enough cash on hand.
Fees and timing at different types of institutions
| Institution Type | Typical Fee | Time to Issue | Non-Customer Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| National bank (non-customer) | $5–$15 | 10–15 minutes | Usually yes, but call first |
| Credit union (non-member) | $5–$10 | 10–15 minutes | Varies; many say no |
| Check-cashing store | $10–$25 | 5–10 minutes | Yes, always |
| Grocery store financial services | $5–$15 | 10–20 minutes | Yes, but limited locations |
Banks charge the least, but only if they'll serve you as a non-customer. Check-cashing stores are always an option but cost more. The trade-off is speed and convenience—a check-cashing store won't turn you away, and you don't need to call ahead.
Check-cashing stores and alternative sources
A check-cashing store will issue a cashier's check to anyone with a valid ID, no account needed. The fee is higher than at a bank (typically $10 to $25 depending on the amount), but there's no waiting and no phone call required. Walk in, pay, and leave with the check in hand. These stores are common in urban areas and strip malls.
Some Walmart locations and grocery stores with financial services counters (like Kroger or Safeway) offer cashier's checks. Availability is spotty, so call ahead. Fees are usually in the $5 to $15 range, closer to bank rates.
Money transfer services like MoneyGram or Western Union do not issue cashier's checks—they handle wire transfers and money orders instead. A money order is not the same as a cashier's check and won't work if the recipient specifically requires a cashier's check.
What happens if the bank refuses
If a bank won't issue a cashier's check to you as a non-customer, your options are a check-cashing store, a grocery store financial services counter, or opening an account at that bank (which takes longer but is an option if you need to use that specific institution).
Some banks refuse non-customers because of fraud concerns or internal policy. If this happens, don't argue—just move to the next option. A check-cashing store will take your money and issue the check the same day, even if the fee is higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check made out to cash?
No. A cashier's check must be made out to a specific person or business by name. If you need a check that anyone can cash, you're looking for a different product—ask the teller about a bank check or money order instead, though these have different security features and may not be accepted where a cashier's check is required.
What if I don't know the exact amount yet?
You need to know the exact amount before you go to the bank. If the amount might change, wait until you know for certain, or ask the recipient if they can accept a check for a slightly higher amount (though most won't). You cannot alter a cashier's check once it's issued.
How long does a cashier's check take to clear?
A cashier's check typically clears within one business day because it's drawn on the bank's own account, not a personal account. The recipient's bank may hold it for a day or two as a precaution, but it's considered safer and faster than a personal check, which can take three to five business days.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after I get it?
Yes, but it's complicated. You'll need to go back to the bank that issued it, bring your ID, and request a stop payment or cancellation. The bank may charge a fee ($15 to $30) and will issue you a new check or refund. If the check has already been cashed, cancellation is impossible.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get a cashier's check?
No. You need a valid photo ID, which can be a passport, state ID, or driver's license. Banks don't require citizenship, only proof of identity. Non-citizens with valid ID can get a cashier's check the same way anyone else can.