Wells Fargo offers free checks to most account holders, but the offer depends on your account type and how you order them

Wells Fargo does not charge for your first order of checks when you open a checking account. After that, the cost varies. If you have a Wells Fargo Everyday Checking or Wells Fargo Premier Checking account, you can order checks through your online banking portal or mobile app at no charge. If you hold other account types, Wells Fargo may charge a fee per box — typically $10 to $15 — though some accounts include a certain number of free check orders per year.

The fastest way to find out what you are may have access to to is to log into your Wells Fargo account online, go to the Checks section, and see what the system shows you. If it displays a price, that is what you would pay. If it shows zero, the order is free. You can also call Wells Fargo at the number on the back of your debit card and ask a representative directly what your account includes.

Key Takeaways

  • Your first order of checks is free when you open a Wells Fargo checking account, regardless of account type.
  • Everyday Checking and Premier Checking accounts include free check orders for the life of the account.
  • Other account types may charge per box after the first order, though some include a limited number of free orders annually.
  • You can order checks online through your Wells Fargo account, by phone, or in person at a branch.
  • Delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the time Wells Fargo processes your order.

How to order checks online through your Wells Fargo account

Log into Wells Fargo Online or the mobile app using your username and password. From the main menu, look for a section labeled "Checks" or "Order Checks" — the exact name varies slightly between the website and app, but it is always in the account services area. Click or tap it.

The system will show you your checking account and ask you to confirm the account number and the address where the checks should be mailed. You can change the address if needed. Next, you will choose a check design — Wells Fargo offers several standard styles at no extra cost. Select the quantity you want (usually sold in boxes of 25 or 50) and review the total cost. If the price is $0, the order is free. If a price appears, that is what your account type charges. Click to confirm and submit.

Wells Fargo will send a confirmation email to the address on file. Your checks will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you need checks faster, some branches can print temporary checks on the spot, though this is not a standard service — call ahead to ask whether your local branch offers it.

Ordering checks by phone or at a branch

Call the number on the back of your debit card and tell the representative you want to order checks. They will verify your identity, confirm your mailing address, and ask which design you prefer. The representative will tell you the cost before processing the order. This method takes the same 7 to 10 business days as online ordering.

You can also walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your debit card or account number and ask to order checks at the teller window. The teller will fill out the order form with you and process it on the spot. Again, you will be told the cost before you commit.

What happens if you have an older account type or a business account

Wells Fargo has retired several older checking account products over the past decade. If you have an account that is no longer marketed — such as the old Wells Fargo Preferred Checking — your check pricing may differ from current account types. The safest approach is to check your account online or call to ask what your specific account includes.

Business accounts have their own check ordering process and pricing structure. If you hold a Wells Fargo business checking account, call the business banking line (different from the consumer line) or log into Wells Fargo Business Online to order. Business accounts typically charge for checks, though the cost is often lower than retail check printing companies.

Why Wells Fargo might decline a check order or delay it

Wells Fargo will not process a check order if your account is closed, frozen, or in dispute. If you have recently reported fraud or unauthorized activity, the bank may place a hold on check orders until the investigation concludes. If your account has a negative balance or you owe Wells Fargo money, the order may be delayed or rejected.

Occasionally, the online ordering system goes down for maintenance. If you cannot access the Checks section of your account, try again in a few hours or call the phone number on your card. If the system repeatedly rejects your order and you cannot reach a representative, visit a branch in person — staff there can investigate why the order is not going through.

Alternatives if Wells Fargo checks are not what you need

If you need checks urgently and Wells Fargo's 7 to 10 day timeline does not work, you can use temporary checks — Wells Fargo prints these at the branch and they work like regular checks for up to 30 days. Ask a teller whether your branch offers this service.

If you want a different check design or specialty checks (such as duplicate or carbon-copy checks), you will likely pay extra through Wells Fargo. Retail check printing companies like Costco, Sam's Club, or online printers like Deluxe or Checks Unlimited often offer lower prices and faster turnaround, though you will be ordering outside the Wells Fargo system. These third-party checks work in any bank account as long as they have your correct account and routing numbers printed on them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay for checks if I just opened my Wells Fargo account?

No. Your first order of checks is free when you open a new checking account. After that, the cost depends on your account type. Everyday Checking and Premier Checking accounts include free check orders indefinitely. Other account types may charge a fee per box starting with the second order.

How long does it take to receive checks after I order them?

Wells Fargo typically processes check orders within one business day and mails them out. Delivery takes 5 to 9 additional business days depending on your location, so plan for 7 to 10 business days total from the time you submit your order. If you need checks sooner, ask your branch about temporary checks.

Can I order checks if my account is overdrawn?

Wells Fargo may decline a check order if your account has a negative balance or if you owe the bank money. Contact your branch or call the number on your card to resolve the issue first, then try ordering again.

What if I want a different check design or specialty checks?

Wells Fargo offers several standard designs at no extra cost. If you want duplicate checks, carbon-copy checks, or custom designs, Wells Fargo will charge extra — usually $15 to $30 per box. Retail check printers often charge less for specialty options.

Can I order checks through the Wells Fargo app?

Yes. The Wells Fargo mobile app includes a Checks section where you can order the same way you would on the website. The process is identical and takes the same 7 to 10 business days.