Chase does not automatically send checks with a new checking account

When you open a Chase checking account, you will not receive checks in the mail unless you order them separately. Chase requires you to request checks after your account is open, either through their mobile app, online banking portal, or by calling customer service. There is no standard package of starter checks included with account opening.

This is standard practice across most major banks. Chase treats checks as an optional service you order when you need them, rather than a default feature. If you need checks when ready, you can order them during the account setup process in some cases, but this still requires an explicit request on your part.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase does not send checks automatically when you open a checking account—you must order them separately through your account.
  • You can order checks through the Chase mobile app, online banking, or by phone at the number on your debit card.
  • Chase charges for checks, with costs varying based on the design and quantity you order, typically ranging from $10 to $20 per box.
  • Third-party check printing services often cost less than ordering directly from Chase, though delivery takes longer.
  • If you need checks urgently, ask Chase about expedited shipping options when you place your order.

How to order checks through your Chase account

The fastest way to order checks is through Chase's online banking platform or mobile app. Log into your account, navigate to the "Checks" or "Order Checks" section (usually found under Account Services or Settings), and follow the prompts to select your check style and quantity. You will need to confirm your mailing address before the order is processed.

If you prefer to order by phone, call the number on the back of your debit card and ask for the checks department. A representative can walk you through available designs and pricing, and can sometimes expedite your order if you need checks quickly. Phone ordering takes the same amount of time to arrive as online ordering—usually 7 to 10 business days for standard delivery.

What Chase charges for checks

Chase's check pricing depends on the design and quantity you order. A standard box of 100 checks typically costs between $10 and $20, though premium designs cost more. If you order multiple boxes at once, the per-box cost may decrease slightly. Expedited shipping, if available, usually adds $5 to $10 to your total.

You are not required to order checks from Chase directly. Many people use third-party check printers like Costco Checks, Deluxe, or Vistaprint, which often charge $5 to $15 per box and can be significantly cheaper if you order in bulk. The trade-off is longer delivery times—typically 2 to 3 weeks instead of 1 to 2 weeks through Chase.

When you might not need checks at all

Many people who open checking accounts today never order checks. If you plan to use your debit card, mobile payments, or bank transfers for most transactions, you may not need physical checks. Before ordering, think about whether you actually have a reason to write checks—rent payments, insurance premiums, or payments to people or businesses that do not take cards.

If you do need to pay someone by check but do not have checks yet, you can ask your bank for a counter check (a temporary check printed on the spot at a branch) or use a cashier's check for larger amounts. Both options are available when ready and cost little or nothing.

Starter checks and promotional offers

Chase occasionally runs promotions that include free or discounted checks with new account openings, but these are not standard and depend on the specific account type and current offers. When you open an account, the bank will tell you if any check-related offers explore to you. If you do not see a mention of free checks during signup, it means none are included.

Some Chase account tiers, like Chase Premier Plus Checking, may include perks that could offset check costs, but free checks themselves are rarely part of the package. Always review the account details before opening to see what is actually included.

How long checks take to arrive

Standard check delivery from Chase takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you place your order. This means if you order on a Monday, you can expect checks to arrive the following week or the week after. Expedited options, when available, can reduce this to 3 to 5 business days but come with an additional fee.

If you need checks sooner, visit a Chase branch in person and ask for counter checks. These are temporary checks printed on the spot that work exactly like regular checks and cost nothing. They are useful for urgent payments while you wait for your permanent checks to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks before my Chase account is fully open?

In most cases, no. You need an active account number before you can order checks. However, some Chase branches may allow you to order checks during the account opening appointment, and they will be printed with your new account number. Call ahead to ask if your local branch offers this service.

What if I order checks and then close my account?

Checks ordered but not yet received can usually be cancelled if you contact Chase before they ship. If checks have already been mailed, you can still use them after closing the account as long as the account had funds to cover them at the time they were written. Contact Chase when ready if you close your account to discuss what happens to pending check orders.

Are there cheaper ways to get checks than ordering from Chase?

Yes. Third-party printers like Costco Checks, Deluxe, and Vistaprint often charge 50 to 70 percent less than Chase, especially if you order in bulk. The main drawback is longer delivery time—usually 2 to 3 weeks. For routine orders, the savings often outweigh the wait.

Do I need checks if I have a debit card?

Not necessarily. If you pay most bills online, use your debit card, or send money through your bank's transfer service, you may never need to write a check. Only order checks if you have specific payments that require them, such as rent or insurance premiums that do not take cards.

What is a counter check and how do I get one?

A counter check is a temporary check printed at a Chase branch on the spot. It works exactly like a regular check and costs nothing. You can use it for when ready payments while waiting for your permanent checks to arrive. Visit any Chase branch and ask the teller for counter checks.