Checks can be written from either a checking account or a savings account, depending on which one your bank allows and what you set up
Most checks are written from checking accounts because that is what checking accounts are designed for — frequent deposits and withdrawals. However, some banks do offer check-writing privileges on savings accounts, though this is less common than it used to be. The account the check draws from depends on which account you linked to your checkbook when you ordered it, or which account your bank designated as your primary account for checks.
When you write a check, the money comes directly from whichever account that checkbook is tied to. The person or business you pay deposits it into their bank, and the funds are deducted from your account. If you have both a checking and savings account at the same bank, you cannot use the same checkbook for both — each account has its own separate checkbook, or one account has check-writing capability and the other does not.
Key Takeaways
- Checks are almost always written from checking accounts because banks design them for regular transactions, while savings accounts are meant to hold money longer.
- Some banks allow check-writing on savings accounts, but you must request this feature when you open the account or ask your bank to add it later.
- Each checkbook is tied to one specific account, so you cannot write checks from a savings account using a checking account checkbook.
- If your savings account does not have check-writing capability, you can transfer money to your checking account first, then write the check from there.
Why checking accounts are the standard for checks
Banks created checking accounts specifically for people who need to move money in and out frequently. Checks are one of those frequent transactions. Savings accounts, by contrast, were designed to hold money and earn a small amount of interest — the bank wants you to leave the money there, not withdraw it constantly.
Because of this difference in purpose, most banks automatically give you check-writing capability on a checking account but not on a savings account. When you open a checking account, the bank usually orders checks for you or lets you order them yourself. When you open a savings account, the bank typically does not offer checks at all.
How to find out which of your accounts can write checks
The simplest way is to look at your account statements or log into your online banking. If checks are available for an account, you will see a section that says something like "Checks" or "Check Services" or "Checkbook." If that section does not appear, that account cannot write checks.
You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch and ask directly. Tell them which account you want to write checks from, and they will tell you whether that account has the feature. If it does not, they can usually add it for you, though some banks charge a small fee or require a minimum balance.
What happens if you try to write a check from a savings account that does not allow it
If your savings account does not have check-writing capability and you write a check anyway, the check will likely bounce. A bounced check means the bank refuses to pay it because there is no authorization for that account to write checks. The person or business you wrote it to will be notified that the check was rejected, and you may face a fee from your bank for the attempt.
To avoid this, transfer money from your savings account to your checking account first, then write the check from your checking account. Most banks let you transfer between your own accounts online or by phone in minutes, and the transfer is free.
Ordering checks for a savings account that allows them
If your bank does allow check-writing on your savings account and you want to order checks, contact your bank directly. You can usually order through online banking, by phone, or in person at a branch. The bank will ask you which account the checks should be tied to, and you will specify your savings account.
Checks typically arrive in the mail within one to two weeks. Some banks charge for checks, while others include them free with the account. Ask your bank about the cost before you order, and ask whether they offer different check styles or designs — some banks charge more for custom designs.
Moving money between accounts to write a check
If you keep most of your money in savings but need to write a check, the easiest approach is to transfer funds to your checking account first. Log into online banking or call your bank and request a transfer from savings to checking. Most banks process these transfers when ready or within one business day, and the transfer is free when both accounts are at the same bank.
Once the money is in your checking account, you can write the check from there. This method also keeps your savings account separate and intact, which many people prefer for budgeting — they use checking for regular spending and checks, and savings for money they want to set aside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write a check from my savings account if my bank offers that feature?
Yes, if your bank allows check-writing on savings accounts and you have ordered checks for that account, you can write checks from it just as you would from a checking account. The money will be deducted from your savings account balance when the check is deposited.
What if I only have a savings account and no checking account?
If your bank allows check-writing on savings accounts, you can write checks directly from savings. If your bank does not offer that feature, you will need to open a checking account to write checks, or transfer money to a different bank that does allow checks on savings accounts.
Do I get charged a fee if I write a check from the wrong account?
If you write a check from an account that does not have check-writing capability, the check will bounce and your bank will likely charge you a fee — usually between $25 and $35. The person you wrote the check to may also charge you a fee for the bounced check.
Can I use the same checkbook for both my checking and savings accounts?
No. Each checkbook is tied to one specific account. If you want to write checks from both accounts, you need a separate checkbook for each one, or you need to transfer money between accounts before writing the check.
How long does it take to transfer money from savings to checking so I can write a check?
Most transfers between your own accounts at the same bank happen when ready or within one business day. If you need the money when ready, transfer online or call your bank to request a same-day transfer. Some banks process these transfers within hours.