You can request a check from your savings account through your bank, but the method and timing depend on your account type and bank
Most banks let you write checks directly from a savings account, though some restrict this. The fastest way is to visit a branch in person with your ID and ask the teller to write a check on your behalf — this takes minutes. You can also order checks through your bank's website or by phone, though those arrive by mail in 7 to 14 days. A few banks offer no-check savings accounts, in which case you would need to transfer money to a checking account first, then write a check from there.
The rules around savings account checks vary by bank and by account type. Some savings accounts come with check-writing built in; others do not. Federal regulations used to limit how many times per month you could withdraw from a savings account, but those limits were removed in 2020 — so the number of checks you write does not matter legally. What matters is whether your specific bank allows it.
Key Takeaways
- Asking a teller to write a check at the branch is the fastest method and takes only a few minutes.
- Ordering checks by mail through your bank takes 7 to 14 days but costs less than rush orders.
- Some savings accounts do not allow check-writing, so you may need to transfer money to a checking account first.
- There is no federal limit on how many checks you can write from a savings account per month.
- You will need your account number and routing number to order checks, and a valid ID to get a teller check.
Getting a check at the branch the same day
Walk into any branch of your bank with a valid ID and your debit card or account number. Tell the teller you need a check written on your savings account. They will ask you the amount and who the check should be made out to. The teller writes the check, you sign it, and you walk out with it — the whole process takes 5 to 10 minutes.
This method works even if your savings account does not normally allow check-writing. The bank is issuing the check on your behalf, not you writing one yourself. There is usually no fee for this service, though some banks charge $1 to $5 for a teller check if you request more than one or two per month.
Ordering checks by mail from your bank
Log into your bank's website or call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. Look for an option to order checks or supplies. You will need to provide your account number, routing number, and the address where you want the checks mailed. Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days. Expedited or rush delivery is available from most banks for an extra fee — usually $15 to $30 — and arrives in 3 to 5 business days.
The cost of checks varies. A box of 100 standard checks costs $10 to $25 depending on your bank and the design. Personalized checks with your name and address cost more. Some banks offer free basic checks to certain account holders. When you order, you can choose how many boxes you need and whether you want duplicate copies (which cost extra but let you keep a record of each check).
Transferring to a checking account if your savings account does not allow checks
If your bank tells you that your savings account cannot write checks, transfer the money you need to a checking account at the same bank. This takes seconds online or a few minutes at the branch. Once the money is in your checking account, you can write a check from there immediately if you already have checks, or request a teller check the same way.
Some banks offer savings accounts with no check-writing as a way to discourage frequent withdrawals and encourage saving. If you find yourself needing checks often, it may make sense to switch to a savings account that allows them, or to keep a small checking account open alongside your savings for times when you need to write checks.
What information you need to order checks
| Information Needed | Where to Find It | Why the Bank Needs It |
|---|---|---|
| Account number | Your debit card, bank statement, or online banking login | To print the correct account number on the checks |
| Routing number | Your bank's website, a check you already have, or by calling customer service | To print the correct routing number so checks clear properly |
| Mailing address | Your address on file with the bank | To send the checks to the right place |
| Name as it appears on the account | Your bank statement or online profile | To print your name on the checks exactly as registered |
Fees and costs to expect
Standard checks ordered by mail cost $10 to $25 per box of 100, depending on your bank. Some banks waive this fee for certain account types or balances. Expedited delivery adds $15 to $30. A teller check written at the branch is usually free, though some banks charge $1 to $5 if you request several in one month.
If you order checks from a third-party printer instead of your bank, they are often cheaper — $5 to $15 per box — but you have to make sure the routing and account numbers are correct. Many people stick with their bank's checks to avoid mistakes that could cause checks to bounce or be rejected.
What to do if your check is lost or damaged
If a check you ordered never arrives, contact your bank's customer service within 30 days. They can reissue the order at no charge. If a check arrives damaged or with printing errors, call the bank and request a replacement box. Do not use checks with errors — they will likely be rejected when you try to cash them.
If you write a check and then lose it before giving it to someone, you can stop payment on it through your bank. This costs $25 to $35 and takes 24 to 48 hours. After that, if someone tries to cash the check, the bank will reject it. Keep a record of which checks you have written and to whom, so you know which ones are still in circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write checks from a savings account, or do I need a checking account?
Most banks allow check-writing from savings accounts, but some do not. Call your bank or log into your account to see if your specific savings account allows it. If not, you can transfer money to a checking account and write checks from there instead.
How long does it take to get checks in the mail?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days from the time you order. Expedited delivery costs extra and arrives in 3 to 5 business days. If you need a check today, ask a teller at your branch to write one for you on the spot.
What happens if I write a check and do not have enough money in my account?
The check will bounce, and both you and the person who tried to cash it may be charged fees — usually $30 to $35 per bounced check. The person you wrote the check to may also pursue you for payment. Always make sure you have enough money before writing a check.
Can I order checks online, or do I have to call the bank?
Most banks let you order checks through their website or mobile app. Log in, look for "order checks" or "supplies", and follow the steps. If you cannot find the option online, call the number on the back of your debit card and a representative can place the order for you.
Is there a limit to how many checks I can write from my savings account?
No. Federal rules that used to limit withdrawals from savings accounts were removed in 2020. You can write as many checks as you want, as long as you have the money to cover them. Your bank may have its own policies, so check with them if you plan to write many checks.