Most banks will not print checks for savings accounts, but some will if you ask
Savings accounts are designed to hold money, not spend it regularly. Because of that, most banks do not issue checks tied to a savings account. If you need checks, your bank will usually direct you to open a checking account instead, which is built for frequent transactions and comes with check-writing as standard.
That said, a small number of banks and credit unions will print checks for savings accounts if you request them. This is rare and often comes with conditions — you may need to maintain a higher balance, pay a fee, or accept a limit on how many checks you can write per month. The best first step is to call your bank's customer service line and ask directly whether they offer this option.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks do not issue checks for savings accounts because savings accounts are meant for storing money, not frequent spending.
- A checking account is the standard product if you need to write checks regularly, and most banks offer both at no extra cost.
- Some credit unions and smaller banks will print checks for savings accounts, but you will need to contact them to learn about yours does and what the terms are.
- If your bank refuses, you can use a cashier's check, money order, or transfer funds to a checking account instead of writing a personal check.
Why banks separate savings and checking accounts
The distinction between savings and checking accounts comes from federal banking rules. Regulation D historically limited how many times per month you could withdraw money from a savings account — the idea was to encourage people to save rather than spend. Checking accounts had no such limit because they were meant for regular transactions.
Even though Regulation D was suspended in 2020, most banks kept the old structure in place. Checks are a withdrawal method, so banks treat them as part of that spending pattern. Issuing checks for a savings account would blur the line between the two products, which is why most institutions simply do not do it.
The practical reason is simpler too: checking accounts come with overdraft protection, fraud monitoring, and other features built for frequent transactions. Savings accounts do not. A bank issuing checks for a savings account would have to add those protections, which costs them money.
When your bank might print checks for a savings account
Credit unions are more likely than large banks to print checks for savings accounts, especially if you have been a member for a long time or maintain a high balance. Some online banks and smaller regional banks also offer this as a special request. The catch is that you usually have to ask — it is not advertised as a standard feature.
If your bank does agree, expect one or more of these conditions: a monthly limit on the number of checks you can write (often five to ten), a higher minimum balance requirement, a per-check fee, or a monthly service charge. Some banks will print a small number of checks for free but charge for additional orders.
The fastest way to find out is to log into your online banking account and look for a checks or ordering section, or call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. Be specific: ask whether they print checks for savings accounts and what the cost and limits are.
Alternatives if your bank will not print checks
If your bank refuses or charges too much, you have several other options that work just as well for most situations.
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, not yours. You go to your bank, tell them the amount and who to make it out to, and they print it on the spot. It costs $5 to $15 depending on the bank, but it is safer than a personal check because the funds are may provide. Many landlords and large vendors prefer cashier's checks for this reason.
A money order is similar but issued by the post office, a grocery store, or a check-cashing service instead of a bank. It costs $1 to $5 and works anywhere a check would. Money orders are useful for paying bills by mail or sending money to someone you do not know well.
A bank transfer or ACH transfer moves money directly from your savings account to someone else's bank account. This is free, fast (usually one to three business days), and leaves a clear record. Many billers now accept this method instead of checks.
If you write checks often enough that these workarounds become inconvenient, opening a checking account is usually the right move. Most banks offer free checking with no minimum balance, so the cost is zero.
Opening a checking account if you need regular check-writing
If you decide a checking account makes more sense, the process is straightforward. You can open one at the same bank where you have your savings account, often in a few minutes online or at a branch. You will need your Social Security number, a government ID, and proof of address (a utility bill or lease works).
Many banks link your checking and savings accounts automatically, which makes it easy to transfer money between them. Once the checking account is open, you can order checks from the bank's website or by phone. Checks usually arrive in five to ten business days, though you can request expedited delivery for a fee.
If your current bank charges for checking or requires a high minimum balance, shop around. Online banks and credit unions often have free checking with no strings attached. You do not have to keep your savings and checking at the same place, though it is usually more convenient if you do.
What to do if you have already ordered checks for your savings account
If your bank printed checks for your savings account and you have already written some, do not panic. The checks are valid and will clear normally. The bank issued them, so they have to honor them.
However, if you plan to write more checks in the future, contact your bank and ask about the limits and fees. Some banks will let you continue writing checks from your savings account but will charge you per check or per month. Others may ask you to switch to a checking account or stop using the checks.
If your bank suddenly stops honoring checks from your savings account, call customer service and ask why. It is possible they changed their policy, or there may be a hold on your account for a different reason. Get the explanation in writing if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a check from my savings account bounce if I do not have enough money?
Yes, just like a check from a checking account. If the check is presented for payment and you do not have enough funds, it will bounce and you will owe a non-sufficient funds fee (usually $25 to $35). The person who received the check may also charge you a returned-check fee.
Can I use a debit card instead of checks from my savings account?
Most savings accounts do not come with a debit card, only a passbook or online access. If you need a card to spend money, a checking account is the right product. Some banks offer savings debit cards, but they are uncommon and often come with restrictions on how many times per month you can use them.
If I open a checking account, do I have to close my savings account?
No. You can have both at the same time. Many people keep a checking account for everyday spending and a savings account for money they want to set aside. The two accounts are separate, so you control how much goes into each one.
How long does it take to get checks printed for a savings account?
If your bank agrees to print them, expect five to ten business days for standard delivery. Some banks offer rush printing for an extra fee, which can get checks to you in two to three business days. Ask when you place the order.
Can I order checks online for my savings account?
It depends on your bank. Log into your online banking account and look for a checks or ordering section. If you do not see one, call customer service. Some banks only allow check orders by phone or in person for savings accounts.