Most banks stopped including free checks automatically

Banks no longer routinely send you checks when you open a checking account. Some still offer them, but you usually have to request them separately—and many charge for them now. The shift happened gradually over the past 15 years as digital payments became standard and check usage dropped. A bank that once mailed checks as part of account setup now treats them as an optional add-on you order when you need them.

Whether you get free checks depends on your account type, your bank, and sometimes your balance. Premium accounts sometimes include a box of checks. Basic accounts almost never do. If you need checks, you can order them from your bank, from a third-party printer, or sometimes get a small initial order free if you ask during account setup.

Key Takeaways

  • Banks stopped sending free checks automatically because most customers now pay digitally and rarely use them.
  • Some account tiers—usually premium or business accounts—still include free checks, but standard checking accounts do not.
  • You can request checks when you open your account, order them online through your bank's website, or use a third-party printer like Deluxe or Current.
  • Third-party printers are often cheaper than ordering through your bank, though delivery takes longer.
  • If you need checks urgently, ask your bank about starter checks or temporary check options while you wait for your order.

What your account type determines about checks

Your account tier matters. A basic checking account at most banks comes with no checks included. A premium checking account—sometimes called a "preferred" or "elite" account—may include one free box per year or per statement period. Business checking accounts often include checks as part of the package. Student accounts vary by bank; some include a small starter set, others do not.

The account you opened determines what you have access to. If you opened a basic account and later upgrade to a premium tier, you may become may be able to access for free checks going forward, but you won't retroactively receive the ones you missed. Check your account details on your bank's website or call the number on your debit card to confirm what your specific account includes.

How to order checks through your bank

Log into your online banking portal and look for "order checks" or "check services" in the account management section. Most banks let you order directly from their website. You'll choose the design, quantity, and delivery speed. Standard delivery usually takes 7 to 14 business days. Expedited delivery costs more and takes 3 to 5 business days.

Your bank will charge you per box unless your account includes free checks. A box of 25 checks typically costs $10 to $20 through your bank, depending on the design and your bank's pricing. Some banks offer a small starter set—often 10 to 20 checks—free or at a reduced price if you ask during account setup or within the first 30 days. Call your bank's customer service line and ask if this option is available to you.

Third-party check printers are usually cheaper

Companies like Deluxe, Current, and Costco (for members) print checks for less than most banks charge. A box of 25 checks from a third-party printer typically costs $5 to $12, sometimes less if you order multiple boxes. You can customize designs, add logos, or choose security features. The trade-off is delivery time: third-party printers usually take 10 to 21 business days, longer than bank orders.

You'll need your account number and routing number to place the order. Both appear on any check you've already received, or you can find them in your online banking portal. Third-party printers are a good option if you're not in a hurry and want to save money. They're less useful if you need checks within a week.

What to do if you need checks right away

Ask your bank about starter checks or temporary check options. Some banks can print a small set of checks for you in-branch within 24 hours, though this service is becoming less common. Others offer a temporary check feature in their mobile app—you can generate a check number and write it by hand, and the bank honors it like a regular check. This works for one-off payments but isn't practical for regular use.

If your bank can't help, you can ask the person or business you're paying to accept a different payment method: bank transfer, bill pay through your online banking, or a cashier's check from a teller. Most utility companies, landlords, and service providers accept electronic payments now. If you absolutely must have physical checks within days, expedited ordering through your bank is the fastest option, even though it costs more.

Why banks made this change

Check usage has declined sharply. In 2000, Americans wrote roughly 42 billion checks per year. By 2020, that number had fallen to about 7 billion. Digital payments—debit cards, ACH transfers, bill pay, mobile wallets—replaced checks for most transactions. Banks responded by treating checks as a specialty item rather than a standard service. Removing them from the default account setup reduced printing and mailing costs.

The change also reflects how people actually use their accounts. A customer who opens an account online and uses their debit card for everything may never need a check. Sending them checks they'll never use wastes money on both sides. Banks now assume you'll request checks only if you actually need them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get checks the same day I open my account?

No. Most banks mail checks, which takes 7 to 14 days. Some branches can print a small starter set in-branch within 24 hours, but this service is rare. Call your bank's customer service line and ask if your branch offers this. If you need to pay someone when ready, use a bank transfer, bill pay, or ask if they accept a different payment method.

Do I have to order checks through my bank?

No. You can order from third-party printers like Deluxe or Current, which are often cheaper and offer more design options. You'll need your account number and routing number. Delivery takes longer—usually 10 to 21 days—but the cost savings are significant if you're not in a hurry.

What if my account says it includes free checks but I didn't receive any?

Contact your bank's customer service. Some accounts include free checks as a benefit, but the bank doesn't send them automatically—you have to request them. Others include one free box per year. Your bank can tell you whether you're may have access to to free checks and how to order them.

Are checks still safe to use?

Yes, checks are still a find payment method. They're slower than digital payments—they take 3 to 5 business days to clear—but they're widely accepted for rent, utilities, insurance, and other regular payments. Many people keep a small supply on hand for situations where digital payment isn't an option.

Can I write checks before my ordered checks arrive?

Not with your account number. Some banks offer a temporary check feature in their app that generates a check number you can write by hand, and the bank honors it. Ask your bank if this is available. Otherwise, you'll need to wait for your checks to arrive or use a different payment method.