Yes, you can order checks from your bank, and most banks will print them for you within a few business days
If you have a checking account, your bank can print checks with your name, account number, and routing number. You order them through your bank's website, mobile app, phone line, or by visiting a branch in person. The bank sends them to your address, usually within 5 to 10 business days depending on the bank and the shipping method you choose.
Most banks charge for checks — typically $15 to $30 per box of 50 checks, though some banks waive the fee for certain account types or if you maintain a minimum balance. A few online banks and credit unions offer free checks or charge less. You can also order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which are often cheaper than ordering directly from the bank, though you will need your routing number and account number to place the order.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks charge $15 to $30 per box of 50 checks, though some waive the fee for premium accounts or customers with high balances.
- Checks ordered from your bank arrive in 5 to 10 business days; third-party printers may take longer but often cost less.
- You can order checks online, by phone, through your mobile app, or in person at a branch.
- Third-party check printers like Deluxe or Costco require your routing number and account number but do not need your bank's permission.
How to order checks through your bank
The fastest way is usually your bank's website or mobile app. Log in to your account, look for a "Reorder Checks" or "Order Supplies" link (often under Settings or Account Services), and follow the prompts. You will choose the quantity, design, and shipping speed. Some banks offer rush delivery for an extra fee.
If you prefer to call, your bank's customer service number is on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. A representative will confirm your address and take your order over the phone. You can also walk into a branch and ask a teller to order checks for you on the spot, though this does not speed up delivery — the bank still mails them to your address.
When you order, you will see options for standard delivery (5 to 10 business days) and sometimes expedited delivery (2 to 3 business days). Expedited shipping usually costs extra. Some banks also offer same-day or next-day pickup at a branch, though this is less common.
Why third-party check printers are often cheaper
Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart print checks for less than most banks do. A box of 50 checks from Deluxe might cost $8 to $15, compared to $15 to $30 from a bank. You order online, provide your routing number and account number (which are printed on your existing checks or visible in your bank's app), and the printer ships them to you.
The checks are legal and work exactly the same as bank-printed checks. Your bank does not need to approve the order or know you are using a third-party printer. Delivery usually takes 7 to 14 business days, so if you need checks quickly, your bank may be faster despite the higher cost.
Costco members can order checks through Costco's website and pick them up at a warehouse, which can be faster than mail delivery. Walmart offers online check ordering as well. Compare prices and delivery times across a few options before you order.
What information the bank needs to print your checks
Your bank already has everything it needs — your name, address, account number, and routing number are all on file. When you order, the bank uses this information to print your checks. You do not need to provide anything extra unless you have moved and want the checks sent to a new address.
If you are ordering from a third-party printer, you will need to enter your routing number and account number yourself. Both numbers appear on the bottom left of any existing check you have. If you do not have a check, log into your bank's app or website — most banks display both numbers in the account details section.
How long checks take to arrive
Standard delivery from your bank is usually 5 to 10 business days. This means the bank prints your checks and mails them, and you receive them within that window. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days, so if you order on a Friday, the clock starts Monday.
Expedited or rush delivery, if your bank offers it, typically takes 2 to 3 business days and costs $10 to $20 extra. Some banks offer next-day or same-day pickup at a branch, though you will usually need to order before a certain time in the morning.
Third-party printers usually take 7 to 14 business days. If you need checks urgently, call your bank and ask about expedited options — it is faster than waiting for a third-party order, even if it costs more.
What to do if you run out of checks before new ones arrive
If you need to make a payment and your checks have not arrived, you have several options. You can use your debit card, set up an online bill payment through your bank (which sends money directly to the payee without a check), use a peer-to-peer transfer app like Venmo or Zelle, or write a check on a temporary check your bank can print at a branch.
Some banks will print temporary checks on the spot if you visit a branch and ask. These are usually printed on plain paper with your account information and work like regular checks, though they look different. Call your bank first to confirm they offer this service.
If you absolutely need a physical check and cannot wait, ask the person or business you are paying whether they accept payment another way — online transfer, credit card, or debit card. Many do, and it solves the problem without a trip to the bank.
Fees and account types that waive check costs
Most banks charge per box of checks, but some waive the fee entirely. Premium checking accounts, accounts with high minimum balances, and accounts that meet certain requirements (like direct deposit or a certain number of monthly transactions) often come with free check ordering. Ask your bank whether your account type qualifies.
Credit unions often charge less for checks than banks do, or waive the fee altogether. If you are a member of a credit union, check their website or call to compare prices before ordering from your bank.
Online banks sometimes offer free checks as a perk to keep customers from leaving for traditional banks. If you use an online bank, log in and look for check ordering options — you may find the service is free or very cheap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order checks if I just opened my account?
Yes. As soon as your account is open and active, you can order checks. Your bank has your account number and routing number, so there is no waiting period. Call the bank or log into your account online to place an order.
What if my address changes after I order checks?
If you ordered checks and then moved, contact your bank immediately. If the checks have not shipped yet, the bank can change the address. If they have already shipped, you can either have them forwarded to your new address or contact the bank to cancel and reorder to the correct address.
Do I need permission from my bank to order checks from a third-party printer?
No. Third-party printers like Deluxe are legal and widely used. Your bank does not need to know or approve. The checks work exactly the same as bank-printed checks because they carry your real routing number and account number.
What if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?
Contact your bank or the printer right away. If the bank printed them, call customer service and describe the problem — they will usually reprint and ship a replacement box at no charge. If a third-party printer made the error, contact them directly; most offer a reprint may provide.
Can I order checks for a joint account?
Yes. If the account is in both names, both names will appear on the checks. If you want checks with only one name on them, ask your bank — some allow this, though it is less common. Call before you order to confirm what your bank can do.