Getting checks from your bank

You can order checks directly from your bank through their website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most banks let you order during online banking login — look for a "order checks" or "check services" link in the account menu. If you cannot find it online, call the number on the back of your debit card and ask for the check ordering department. The bank will confirm your account details, mailing address, and check style, then send them to you by mail within 7 to 14 business days.

Some banks charge for checks; others include a certain number free each year. The cost varies by bank and check design — basic checks typically run $10 to $20 per box of 25, while designer or duplicate checks cost more. Ask your bank about the fee before you order, and whether you have any free checks remaining on your account.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let you order checks online through your account dashboard, which is faster than calling or visiting a branch.
  • Checks arrive by mail in 7 to 14 business days, so order before you run out if you write checks regularly.
  • Basic checks cost $10 to $20 per box of 25, though some banks include free checks as part of your account.
  • You will need your account number and routing number ready when you order, both of which appear on existing checks or in your online banking.
  • Third-party check printers like Deluxe or Costco often charge less than banks, but verify your bank accepts them before ordering.

Ordering checks online through your bank's website

Log into your online banking account and look for a link labeled "order checks," "check services," "reorder checks," or "manage checks" — the exact wording depends on your bank. Click it and you will see options for check style, quantity, and delivery address. Select the design you want (most banks offer basic, business, or decorative styles), choose how many boxes you need, and confirm your mailing address. The bank will show you the total cost before you submit the order.

If you cannot find the link in your main account menu, try the settings or account services section. Some banks hide it under "products and services" or "additional services." If you still cannot locate it after searching, call customer service — they can walk you through it or place the order over the phone.

Ordering checks by phone or at a branch

Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card and tell them you want to order checks. Have your account number ready. The representative will ask which style you prefer, how many boxes, and confirm your mailing address. They will also tell you the cost and when to expect delivery. Most banks mail checks within 7 to 14 business days.

You can also walk into any branch of your bank and ask a teller to order checks for you. This works the same way — they will show you sample designs, take your order, and give you a receipt with an expected delivery date. Ordering in person is useful if you want to see the check designs before deciding, or if you prefer not to order online.

What information you need to provide

Your bank will need your account number, which appears on the bottom left of any existing check or in your online banking. They will also confirm your routing number (the nine-digit code at the bottom left of a check, before your account number) to make sure the checks print correctly. Have your current mailing address ready, since checks ship to the address on file with your account.

If you have moved recently and updated your address with the bank, the checks will go to your new address. If you have not updated it yet, tell the bank your new address when you order, and they will send the checks there instead. Some banks let you choose a different mailing address during checkout if you want checks sent somewhere other than your account address.

Understanding check costs and free check allowances

Check pricing varies widely by bank. Some accounts include a certain number of free checks per year — often 25 to 50 checks — while others charge for every box. A box of 25 basic checks typically costs $10 to $20. Duplicate checks (which create a carbon copy as you write) and designer checks cost more, sometimes $25 to $40 per box.

Before you order, log into your account or call customer service and ask whether you have any free checks remaining. If you do, use them before paying. If you write checks infrequently, the cost may not matter much, but if you write dozens per month, it adds up. Some people switch to third-party printers to save money — see the section below on that option.

Ordering checks from third-party printers instead of your bank

You do not have to order checks from your bank. Third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and Vistaprint often charge less — sometimes $5 to $15 per box of 25. You provide your account number and routing number during checkout, and the printer produces checks that work exactly like bank-issued checks.

Before ordering from a third-party printer, confirm that your bank accepts checks printed by outside vendors. Most banks do, but some have restrictions. Call customer service or check your account agreement. If your bank allows it, third-party checks are a legitimate way to save money. The checks will look slightly different from bank-branded ones, but they function identically — they clear the same way and carry the same legal weight.

How long checks take to arrive and what to do if you run out

Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days from the date you order. Expedited shipping is sometimes available for an extra fee — usually $5 to $10 — and cuts the time to 3 to 5 business days. If you need checks urgently and cannot wait, ask your bank whether they offer rush delivery, or whether you can pick up checks at a branch.

If you run out of checks before new ones arrive, you have options. You can use your debit card, mobile payment app, or online bill pay to make payments instead. If you absolutely need a physical check, some banks will print a counter check at a branch — a temporary check you can use immediately. Ask a teller whether this is available at your bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. Most banks let you order checks as soon as your account is active, usually within 24 hours of opening. If you cannot find the order option online, call customer service and they will place the order for you. Checks will arrive within 7 to 14 business days.

What if I want to change the mailing address for my checks?

Update your address with the bank before you order, and the checks will ship to your new address. If you have already placed an order, call customer service immediately — they may be able to change the address if the checks have not shipped yet. If they have already mailed, you will have to wait for them to arrive and then order again to the correct address.

Do I need to reorder checks every time I run out?

Yes. Each time you need more checks, you place a new order through online banking, by phone, or at a branch. Most people order a box or two at a time and reorder when they get low. If you write very few checks, you might only order once every year or two.

What happens if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?

Contact your bank or the printer immediately. They will reprint and resend the checks at no charge. Bring the damaged checks to a branch or take a photo and email it to customer service, depending on how your bank prefers to handle it. Replacement checks usually arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I order checks with a different name on them?

The name on your checks must match the name on your account. If you have recently married, divorced, or legally changed your name, update your account with the bank first. Once your account name is updated, order new checks and they will print with your current legal name.