Yes, you can order checks from your bank, and most banks will print them for you within a week or two

Checks are still a standard service at most banks. You can order them through your bank's website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. Your bank will print them with your account number, routing number, and address, then mail them to you. The process is straightforward, though it costs money — banks typically charge $15 to $30 per box of 25 or 50 checks, depending on the bank and the style you choose.

Some banks include a free box of checks when you open a checking account, so if you are new to the bank, ask whether that applies to you. If you have had the account for a while, you will likely pay for any new orders.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks charge $15 to $30 per box of checks, though some offer a free box with new accounts.
  • You can order checks online, through your mobile app, by phone, or at a branch — online is usually fastest.
  • Standard delivery takes one to two weeks; expedited options cost extra but arrive in three to five business days.
  • If you need checks urgently, some banks offer temporary checks you can print at home or pick up immediately at a branch.

How to order checks through your bank's website or app

Log into your online banking account or mobile app and look for a "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks" option, usually under account services or settings. You will select the account you want checks for, choose the style and quantity, and enter your delivery address. Most banks let you preview how the checks will look before you confirm the order.

Payment is automatic — the bank charges your account directly. Delivery typically takes seven to fourteen business days. If you are ordering for the first time or changing your address, the bank may require you to verify your identity or confirm the order by phone before printing begins.

Ordering checks by phone or at a branch

Call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on your statement) and ask to order checks. Have your account number and the address where you want them sent ready. The representative will walk you through style options and confirm the cost before charging your account.

You can also walk into any branch of your bank and order checks at the teller window or at a desk. This is useful if you want to see sample check styles in person or if you prefer to pay by cash or card rather than having the charge go to your account. Branch staff can sometimes process orders faster than the phone line, though delivery time is usually the same.

Expedited checks and temporary options

If you need checks sooner than two weeks, ask your bank about expedited shipping — most charge an extra $10 to $20 to get checks in three to five business days. Some banks also offer temporary checks that you can print yourself from your account or pick up at a branch the same day. These are not as formal as printed checks, but they work for most payments and give you time for your real checks to arrive.

A few banks print checks on demand at the branch — you order them in the morning and pick them up the same afternoon. Ask whether your bank offers this service; it is not universal, but it solves the problem if you need checks urgently and have a branch nearby.

What information the bank needs to print your checks

Your bank already has your account number and routing number on file. They will print your name and address on the checks based on what is in their system. If your address has changed, update it in your online banking account or at a branch before you order — the checks will be printed with whatever address the bank has for you.

If you want a different name on the checks (for example, a business name or a nickname), contact your bank first. Some banks allow this; others do not. You may need to set up a separate account or provide documentation. Do not assume the bank will print something other than what is registered to the account.

Cost and what affects the price

Standard checks cost $15 to $30 per box, but the exact price depends on your bank and the style you choose. Fancy designs, larger quantities, or checks with extra security features cost more. Some banks charge less for basic black-and-white checks and more for colored or personalized designs.

A few banks waive check fees for customers who meet certain conditions — for example, maintaining a minimum balance or having direct deposit set up. Ask your bank whether you may have access to for any fee waivers. If you order checks frequently, it may be worth comparing the cost at different banks or using a third-party check printer, though you will need to provide your account and routing numbers yourself.

Third-party check printers as an alternative

You do not have to order checks from your bank. Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart print checks at competitive prices, sometimes lower than what banks charge. You provide your account number, routing number, and address, and they print and mail the checks to you.

The advantage is cost and design options — third-party printers often have more styles to choose from. The disadvantage is that you are responsible for entering your account details correctly, and if you make a mistake, the checks will not work. Banks verify your information automatically, so there is less room for error. If you go this route, double-check your account and routing numbers before you submit the order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get checks after I order them?

Standard delivery is seven to fourteen business days from the time you place the order. Expedited shipping takes three to five business days and costs extra. Some banks offer same-day pickup at branches or the ability to print temporary checks immediately while you wait for the real ones.

Can I order checks if I have a joint account?

Yes. Both names on the account can usually appear on the checks, or you can choose to print only one name. Contact your bank to specify whose name you want printed. The checks will work for either account holder to write or deposit.

What if I made a mistake on my order?

If you catch the error before the checks are printed, call your bank immediately and ask them to cancel the order. If the checks have already shipped, you will have to pay for a new order with the correct information. This is why it is important to review the preview before you confirm.

Do I need checks if I have online banking and a debit card?

No. Many people pay bills online or with a card and never use checks. But some payments — rent, security deposits, certain government agencies — still require checks. Keep a small supply on hand even if you do not use them often, or order them only when you need them.

Can I order checks for a business account?

Yes, if you have a business checking account at the bank. The process is the same, but the checks will be printed with your business name and address. Some banks charge more for business checks or require additional verification before printing.