Where to get a cashier's check when you don't have a bank account

You can get a cashier's check from a credit union, a check-cashing store, or a money services business—you do not need a bank account. A cashier's check is a check drawn on the institution's own account and signed by an employee, which makes it more trustworthy than a personal check because the funds are may provide. The issuer holds your money until the check clears, so the recipient knows the payment will not bounce.

The easiest route depends on what you have available: a credit union membership, a nearby check-cashing store, or access to a Walmart or similar retailer that offers money services. Each charges a fee, usually between $5 and $15, and each has different requirements for identification and payment method.

Key Takeaways

  • Credit unions issue cashier's checks to non-members in some cases, though membership is often cheaper and faster than using a check-cashing store.
  • Check-cashing stores and money services businesses (including Walmart MoneyCenter and similar retailers) will issue cashier's checks for a fee, typically $5 to $15.
  • You will need a government-issued photo ID and the funds to cover the check amount plus the fee, usually paid in cash or debit card.
  • Processing takes minutes to an hour at most locations, and the check is ready to use immediately.
  • Some banks will issue a cashier's check to a non-customer if you pay in cash, though policies vary by branch and institution.

Credit unions and non-member cashier's checks

Many credit unions will issue a cashier's check to someone who is not a member, though the fee is usually higher than for members. Call ahead to confirm the specific credit union accepts non-members for this service, because policies vary. You will need a government-issued photo ID and cash or a debit card to pay for the check and the fee.

If you have a family member or friend who belongs to a credit union, ask whether they can request a cashier's check on your behalf. Some credit unions allow members to request checks for others, which can be faster than going in person as a non-member. Processing typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Check-cashing stores and money services businesses

Check-cashing stores exist in most neighborhoods and will issue a cashier's check for a fee, usually $5 to $10 depending on the check amount. Bring a government-issued photo ID and the cash or debit card to cover both the check amount and the fee. The check is printed and ready to use within minutes.

Walmart MoneyCenter, ACE Cash Express, Check Into Cash, and similar chains offer cashier's checks at their locations. Hours are often longer than banks—many are open evenings and weekends—which can be useful if you need the check outside normal business hours. Fees at these locations tend to be on the lower end, around $5 to $8 for a standard cashier's check.

Banks and non-customer cashier's checks

Some banks will issue a cashier's check to a non-customer if you pay in cash, though this is becoming less common. Call the branch directly and ask whether they offer this service; policies differ between banks and sometimes between branches of the same bank. You will need a government-issued photo ID and enough cash to cover the check amount plus a fee, which may be $10 to $15 or higher.

If you have an account at any bank, even a savings account, you can request a cashier's check from that institution without the non-customer fee. If you are considering opening an account primarily to get a cashier's check, compare the cost of the account opening (if any) against the fee at a check-cashing store—often the store is cheaper for a one-time transaction.

What you need to bring and what it costs

Every place that issues a cashier's check requires a government-issued photo ID: a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Bring the ID even if you have been to the location before. You will also need the funds to cover the check amount plus the fee, paid in cash or by debit card. Credit cards are usually not accepted for cashier's checks.

Fees range from $5 at discount check-cashing stores to $15 or more at some banks. Credit unions typically charge $5 to $10 for members and $8 to $12 for non-members. Ask for the fee upfront before you commit, because it varies by location and check amount. Some places charge more for larger checks or rush processing, though most standard checks are ready in under an hour.

How long it takes and when you can use the check

A cashier's check is ready to use immediately after it is issued. You do not have to wait for it to clear or for any processing period. The recipient can deposit or cash it right away, and the funds will be available in their account within one to two business days, depending on their bank.

If you need the check on a specific date—for a rent payment, a down payment, or a court filing—plan to get it the same day or the day before. Most check-cashing stores and credit unions are open until at least 5 or 6 p.m. on weekdays, and some Walmart locations are open until 10 p.m. or later. If you need a cashier's check on a weekend, Walmart MoneyCenter and some check-cashing chains are your best option.

Alternatives if you cannot get a cashier's check

If no location near you issues cashier's checks, or if the fee is too high, consider a money order instead. Money orders are similar to cashier's checks but are issued for smaller amounts (usually capped at $500 to $1,000) and cost less—typically $1 to $5. They are available at post offices, check-cashing stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies.

Another option is a certified check, which is a personal check that the bank certifies will not bounce. You need a bank account to get a certified check, but if you have access to one—even a friend's or family member's account—this is often cheaper than a cashier's check. Some banks do not charge for certified checks if you are a customer.

If the recipient will accept a bank transfer or ACH payment, that is often faster and cheaper than any check. Ask whether they can receive money by wire transfer, Venmo, PayPal, or direct deposit. These methods clear in hours or days and have no fee or a much lower fee than a cashier's check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without a photo ID?

No. Every institution that issues a cashier's check requires a government-issued photo ID for verification. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can obtain a state ID card from your DMV or equivalent agency, which usually takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your state.

What if I do not have cash or a debit card to pay for the check?

You will need either cash or a debit card to pay for a cashier's check as a non-customer. Credit cards are not accepted. If you have neither, ask a friend or family member to pay for it on your behalf, or consider a money order instead, which may be available through other payment methods at some locations.

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

Yes. A cashier's check is drawn on the institution's account, not yours, and is signed by an employee. The funds are may provide because the issuer holds the money. A personal check can bounce if your account does not have enough funds. This is why landlords, courts, and large transactions often require a cashier's check.

How long does a cashier's check stay valid?

Most cashier's checks do not expire, but some banks will stop honoring them after six months to a year. Ask the issuer how long the check is valid. If you are not using it immediately, confirm the validity period with the recipient before you get the check.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after it is issued?

Yes, but it is complicated and may cost money. You will need to contact the issuing institution and request a stop payment, which usually requires a fee of $15 to $30. The institution may also require proof that the check was lost or that the transaction was fraudulent. If you think you might not use the check, wait to get it until you are certain.