Yes, but not all money market accounts let you do it
Some money market accounts come with check-writing privileges, and some do not. It depends entirely on the bank or credit union and the specific account you open. Before you open a money market account expecting to write checks, call the institution and ask directly whether checks are included. Do not assume they are.
If check-writing matters to you, this detail belongs in your decision before you fund the account. Moving money later costs time and may trigger early withdrawal penalties if the account has a minimum holding period.
When a money market account does include checks, the mechanics work the same way as a checking account: you write the check, the recipient deposits it, and the bank deducts the amount from your money market balance. The difference is usually in the limits—most banks cap the number of checks you can write per month, often at three to six.
Key Takeaways
- Check-writing availability varies by bank and account type, so you must confirm with your institution before opening the account.
- Money market accounts that offer checks typically limit you to three to six checks per month, while unlimited checking accounts have no such cap.
- Writing a check from a money market account works like any other check—the bank deducts the amount from your balance when it clears.
- If check-writing is essential to you, a traditional checking account may be more practical than a money market account with check restrictions.
Why banks limit checks on money market accounts
Money market accounts sit between savings and checking accounts. They typically offer higher interest rates than checking accounts, but in exchange, banks restrict how often you can move money out. Federal regulations (Regulation D) historically capped withdrawals and transfers at six per month, though that rule was suspended in 2020 and has not been fully reinstated.
Banks still enforce their own limits anyway, because the account is designed to discourage frequent transactions. Checks are one form of withdrawal. A bank that allows unlimited checks would undermine the whole point of the product—which is to keep your money relatively still so they can lend it out and pay you interest.
If you need to write many checks, a money market account is the wrong tool. A checking account, even one with a lower interest rate, gives you unlimited check-writing and is built for that purpose.
How to learn about your money market account includes checks
Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online account and look for the account terms document. The disclosure will list what features come with your specific money market product. Search for the words "check," "draft," or "withdrawal limit."
If you have not opened an account yet, ask the bank representative before you sign anything. The answer should be in writing—either in the account agreement or in an email confirmation. Do not rely on a verbal yes from a teller.
Some banks offer multiple versions of money market accounts. One might include checks and one might not. Make sure you know which one you are getting.
What happens if you exceed your check-writing limit
If your account allows three checks per month and you write four, the bank will either reject the fourth check or charge you a fee for exceeding the limit. The fee is usually $25 to $35 per violation. A rejected check may also trigger a non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee from the recipient's bank, which could be another $25 to $35.
The person or business you wrote the check to will see it bounce. They may charge you a returned-check fee on top of everything else. This can escalate quickly—one extra check can cost you $75 to $100 in fees across all parties.
If you regularly need to write checks, do not open a money market account. Switch to a checking account instead, or keep both and use the checking account for checks and the money market account for savings.
Alternatives if your money market account does not include checks
If you want the higher interest rate of a money market account but also need check-writing, you have a few options.
First, open both accounts at the same bank: a money market account for savings and a checking account for spending and checks. Move money between them as needed. This works well if you want to earn interest on most of your money but keep some liquid for regular expenses.
Second, use a money market account without checks and write checks from a linked checking account instead. You can transfer money from the money market account to checking in one to two business days (or instantly if the bank offers it) and then write the check. This adds a step but keeps your money earning interest until you actually need it.
Third, if check-writing is rare for you, ask whether the bank will let you request checks on an as-needed basis even if they are not the default. Some institutions will issue a check from a money market account if you call ahead and ask, even if the account normally does not include them.
Money market accounts versus checking accounts for check-writing
| Feature | Money Market Account (with checks) | Checking Account |
|---|---|---|
| Check-writing | Usually limited to 3–6 per month | Unlimited |
| Interest rate | Higher (varies by bank and market) | Usually 0% or very low |
| Minimum balance | Often $2,500–$25,000 | Varies; many have no minimum |
| Withdrawal limits | Bank-imposed limits on transfers and checks | No limits |
| Best for | Savings with occasional checks | Daily spending and frequent checks |
How to order checks for a money market account
If your money market account includes checks, you order them the same way you would for a checking account. Log into your online banking portal and look for "order checks" or "check supplies." You can also call the bank and request them by phone.
Checks typically arrive in 7 to 14 business days. Some banks offer expedited delivery for a fee. Make sure the checks are printed with the correct account number—if they print with the wrong number, the bank will not deduct the payment from your money market account.
If you have not received checks yet and need to write one, ask the bank whether they can issue a counter check (a temporary check printed on the spot) or whether you can request a wire transfer or cashier's check instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write checks from a money market account at any bank?
No. Check-writing is optional for money market accounts. Some banks include it, some do not. You must ask your specific bank before opening the account or before writing a check.
What happens if I write more checks than my limit allows?
The bank will either reject the check or charge you a fee—usually $25 to $35 per excess check. The recipient's bank may also charge them a returned-check fee, and they may charge you as well. Fees can add up quickly.
Can I transfer money from my money market account to my checking account and then write a check?
Yes. If your money market account does not include checks, you can transfer money to a linked checking account and write the check from there. Transfers typically take one to two business days, or instantly if your bank offers it.
Do money market accounts with checks have the same interest rate as those without?
Not always. Some banks offer the same rate regardless of whether checks are included. Others offer a slightly lower rate on accounts with check-writing. Ask your bank to compare the rates before you decide.
Is it better to have a money market account or a checking account if I write checks regularly?
A checking account is better if you write checks regularly. Checking accounts have unlimited check-writing and are designed for frequent transactions. Money market accounts are better for savings with occasional checks.