Stash does not offer personal checks through the bank itself

Stash is an investment and banking platform, but it does not print or mail personal checks to customers. If you need checks for your Stash checking account, you will have to order them from a third-party check printer instead of through Stash directly.

This is different from traditional banks, which usually print checks as part of their checking account service. Because Stash focuses on digital banking and investing, they have chosen not to handle check printing themselves. The good news is that ordering checks from an outside printer is straightforward and usually inexpensive.

Key Takeaways

  • Stash does not print checks, so you must order them from a third-party check printer using your Stash account routing and account numbers.
  • You can find your routing number and account number in the Stash app under account settings or by contacting Stash customer support.
  • Popular check printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart offer personal checks and can deliver them to your address within one to two weeks.
  • Check prices vary by printer and design, but basic checks typically cost between $10 and $30 per box of 100 or 200 checks.
  • Before ordering, confirm your routing and account numbers are correct, as mistakes will cause checks to bounce or be rejected.

Where to find your routing and account numbers

To order checks, you need two pieces of information from your Stash account: your routing number and your account number. The routing number tells the check recipient which bank processes your account. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank.

Open the Stash app and go to your account settings or profile section. Look for a tab labeled "Account Information," "Bank Details," or "Routing and Account Numbers." Both numbers should be listed there. If you cannot find them in the app, contact Stash customer support by phone or through the in-app chat, and they will provide both numbers to you.

Write down both numbers exactly as they appear. A single digit wrong will cause problems when someone tries to deposit or cash your check.

How to order checks from a third-party printer

Once you have your routing and account numbers, you can order checks from any major check printer. The most common options are Deluxe, Costco (if you have a membership), Walmart, and Vistaprint. You can also search online for "personal check printing" to find other printers.

Visit the printer's website and select "personal checks." You will be asked to enter your name, address, routing number, and account number. Choose your check design and quantity — most people order 100 or 200 checks per box. Review your information carefully before confirming your order, especially the routing and account numbers.

Most printers deliver checks within one to two weeks. Some offer faster shipping for an extra fee. After your checks arrive, inspect them to make sure all the information is correct before you use them.

What checks cost and what affects the price

The cost of personal checks depends on the printer and the design you choose. Basic checks with standard fonts and no images usually cost between $10 and $30 per box of 100 or 200 checks. Checks with custom designs, photos, or specialty finishes cost more — sometimes $40 to $60 per box.

Costco and Walmart tend to offer lower prices than other printers, especially if you order in bulk. Deluxe and Vistaprint offer more design options but charge more. Compare prices across a few printers before ordering to find the best deal for what you want.

Some printers offer first-time discounts or promotional codes. Search the printer's name plus "coupon" or "discount code" before you check out to see if you can save money.

Why Stash does not offer checks and what this means for you

Stash is designed as a digital-first bank and investment platform. Most customers use the Stash debit card or digital transfers to move money, so Stash decided not to invest in check printing. This keeps their costs down and allows them to focus on their core services.

If you rarely write checks, this may not affect you at all. But if you need checks regularly — for rent, bills, or other payments — ordering from a third-party printer is a straightforward workaround. The process takes a few minutes online, and checks arrive within two weeks.

What to do if you need checks urgently

If you need checks sooner than one to two weeks, some printers offer expedited shipping. Deluxe and Vistaprint both offer next-day or two-day delivery for an additional fee, usually $15 to $30. This is more expensive but useful if you have an urgent payment due.

Another option is to ask the person or organization you are paying whether they accept digital payment instead — a bank transfer, credit card, or mobile payment app. Many landlords, utilities, and businesses now accept these methods, which can be faster than mailing a check anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use checks from any bank with my Stash account?

No. Checks must have your correct Stash routing number and account number printed on them. If you use checks from another bank, they will not work with your Stash account. Always order checks that are specifically printed for your Stash account information.

What happens if I order checks with the wrong account number?

If someone tries to deposit or cash a check with the wrong account number, it will be rejected or sent to the wrong account. Before you order, triple-check your account number in the Stash app. If you realize the mistake after ordering, contact the printer to see if you can cancel and reorder.

Do I need Stash's permission to order checks?

No. You own the account and can order checks whenever you need them. Stash does not restrict check ordering. Just make sure you use your correct account information when you order.

Are there alternatives to writing checks?

Yes. You can use your Stash debit card, set up automatic bill pay through your Stash app, or use a mobile payment app like Venmo or Zelle. Many bills and payments can be made faster and easier through these digital methods than by mailing a check.