Most banks will send you checks, but not always right away, and sometimes not at all

When you open a checking account, the bank does not automatically mail you a checkbook on day one. Some banks include an initial order of checks in your welcome package or send them within a week or two. Others require you to order checks separately, either through the bank's website, by phone, or at a branch. A few banks—particularly online-only institutions—do not offer paper checks at all, or charge a fee for them.

The timing and cost depend on which bank you use and what type of account you opened. A traditional brick-and-mortar bank is more likely to send checks without asking. An online bank may require you to request them. Some accounts marketed as "basic" or "student" accounts come with limited check supplies or none.

Key Takeaways

  • Banks vary widely on whether they send checks automatically; some mail them within days, others require you to order them yourself.
  • Online-only banks and some financial institutions charge for checks or do not offer them as a standard feature.
  • You can request checks through your bank's website, mobile app, phone line, or in person at a branch.
  • If you need checks when ready, you can use your debit card, mobile payment apps, or ACH transfers instead while you wait for them to arrive.
  • Reordering checks typically takes one to two weeks, so plan ahead if you use them regularly.

What happens when you first open an account

At the moment you open a checking account—whether in person or online—the bank usually does not hand you or mail you checks that same day. Instead, you receive a debit card, online banking login information, and sometimes a temporary card number you can use when ready.

Within the next few days to two weeks, the bank may send an initial supply of checks to your mailing address on file. This is most common at national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, and at regional banks and credit unions. However, the bank will only do this if your account type includes checks as a standard feature. If you opened a basic savings account by mistake, or a money market account, you may not receive checks at all.

Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover often do not send checks automatically. Instead, they send you a notice explaining how to order them if you want them. Some online banks charge $10 to $25 per box of 25 checks; others offer them free but require you to request them first.

How to order checks if you do not have them

If you did not receive checks in the mail, or if you have run out, you can order more through several channels. The fastest and easiest is usually your bank's website or mobile app. Log in, look for a "Checks" or "Order Supplies" section, and follow the prompts. Most banks let you choose the design, quantity, and delivery speed.

You can also call your bank's customer service line and request checks over the phone. A representative will confirm your mailing address and process the order. If you prefer to order in person, visit a branch with your account number or debit card.

Standard delivery typically takes one to two weeks. Some banks offer expedited shipping for an extra fee—usually $10 to $20—if you need checks within three to five business days. A few banks, including some credit unions, can print checks at the branch while you wait, though this is less common.

Banks that do not offer paper checks

A growing number of banks, especially those designed for frequent travelers or people who rarely use paper, do not offer checks at all. Chime, Revolut, and some online-only institutions fall into this category. If you open an account at one of these banks and later decide you need checks, you will have to switch banks or use alternative payment methods.

Before opening an account, check the bank's website or call to ask whether checks are included and whether there is a fee. This matters if you pay rent, utilities, or other bills by check, or if you need to send checks to government agencies or insurance companies.

What to do while you wait for checks to arrive

If you need to pay someone before your checks arrive, you have several options. Your debit card works for most purchases and online payments. For bills, you can set up an ACH transfer (also called an electronic bank transfer) through your bank's website, which moves money directly from your account to another account. ACH transfers are free and usually take one to three business days.

You can also use mobile payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle to send money to individuals. For bills to companies, many utilities and service providers let you pay online or by phone without a check. If you absolutely must send a physical check and cannot wait, you can ask the payee whether they accept a printed check from your bank's website, or you can visit a branch and ask about a cashier's check or money order as a temporary solution.

Costs and fees for checks

At most traditional banks and credit unions, your first box of checks is free or included with your account. Reorders are usually free as well, though some banks charge $5 to $15 per box depending on the design or quantity you choose.

Online banks and some financial technology companies charge more. Expect to pay $10 to $25 per box of 25 checks, or sometimes per box of 50. A few banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance or meet other account requirements.

If you need checks printed outside your bank—through a third-party printer like Costco, Walmart, or an online check printer—you may pay less per box, sometimes $5 to $10. However, you will need your routing number and account number, and the checks must be approved by your bank before you can use them. Not all banks accept third-party checks, so confirm with your bank first.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Standard delivery is one to two weeks from the date you order. Expedited shipping, if your bank offers it, usually takes three to five business days and costs $10 to $20 extra. Some branches can print checks on the spot, but this is rare.

Can I use my account before my checks arrive?

Yes. Your debit card, online banking, and ACH transfers all work when ready. You do not need checks to use your account. Checks are optional for most people and necessary only if you pay bills or send money by check.

What if my bank does not offer checks?

You can use your debit card, ACH transfers, or mobile payment apps instead. If you truly need paper checks, you may have to switch banks or order checks from a third-party printer, though your current bank must approve them first.

Do I have to pay for my first box of checks?

At most banks and credit unions, no. Your first box is free or included with the account. Online banks and some financial technology companies may charge for all checks, including the first order. Check your bank's fee schedule or ask before you open the account.

Can I order checks through my bank's app?

Most banks let you order checks through their mobile app or website. Log in, find the "Checks" or "Order Supplies" section, and follow the steps. If you cannot find it, call customer service or visit a branch.