What you get depends on the account type and what you ask for
Banks do not automatically send you checks with either a checking or savings account. A checking account is designed for regular deposits and withdrawals, and most banks offer checks as an optional add-on you can order. A savings account is meant to hold money longer and earn interest, and banks typically do not offer checks for savings accounts at all — you cannot write checks directly from savings.
The reason is practical: checking accounts exist for frequent transactions, so checks make sense. Savings accounts exist to discourage frequent withdrawals, so banks do not give you a tool to make them straightforward. If you need to move money from savings to checking to pay someone by check, that is the intended process.
When you open a checking account, the bank will ask whether you want checks ordered. Some banks include a first box free; others charge a fee per box (usually $10 to $25). You can also decline checks entirely and use your debit card, online transfers, or bill pay instead.
Key Takeaways
- Checking accounts offer checks as an optional service you must order; they do not arrive automatically.
- Savings accounts do not come with checks because they are designed to discourage frequent withdrawals.
- Your first box of checks may be free depending on your bank and account type, but additional boxes usually cost $10 to $25.
- You can pay bills and transfer money without checks using your debit card, online bill pay, or bank transfers.
How to order checks for your checking account
When you first open a checking account, the bank representative will show you check options on the spot. You can choose a basic design (usually free for the first box) or a custom design with your name and address printed on them (which costs more). You decide then whether to order them.
If you did not order checks at account opening, or if you run out, you can order more anytime through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. The process takes about 7 to 10 business days for delivery. Some banks also let you order checks through third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which are sometimes cheaper than ordering directly from the bank.
Before you order, ask yourself whether you actually need them. Many people use checks rarely or not at all. If you pay most bills online, send money through your bank's bill pay feature, or use your debit card, you may never need a box of checks.
Why savings accounts do not come with checks
A savings account is built around a different purpose than a checking account. The bank wants you to deposit money and leave it there to earn interest. Checks would make it too straightforward to withdraw money on impulse, which would defeat that purpose.
Federal law also limits how many times you can withdraw from a savings account each month — the limit varies by bank but is often six withdrawals. Checks would be a way around that limit, so banks straightforward do not offer them for savings accounts. If you need to pay someone from your savings, you transfer the money to your checking account first, then write a check or use another payment method.
When you might not need checks at all
Checks are less common than they used to be. Many bills can be paid through your bank's online bill pay system, which sends money directly to the company without a paper check. Rent, utilities, insurance, and loan payments all work this way. Your employer can deposit your paycheck directly into your account instead of giving you a paper check.
For person-to-person payments, you can use apps like Venmo, PayPal, or your bank's own transfer service. For in-person payments at a store, you use your debit card. The main reason to keep checks now is for situations where the other person or business does not accept electronic payment — some landlords, contractors, or small businesses still prefer checks.
If you are unsure whether you need checks, wait a few weeks after opening your account. See how you actually pay bills and move money. If you have not needed a check by then, you probably will not.
What checks cost and where to order them
Your bank's first box of checks is often free, especially if you have a premium checking account or maintain a minimum balance. After that, a box of 100 checks typically costs $10 to $25 depending on the design and your bank.
You can order checks directly from your bank through their website or app, or by phone. You can also order from third-party check printers. Costco, for example, sells checks to members at lower prices than many banks. Deluxe and other online printers also offer discounts if you order in bulk or choose simpler designs.
Before ordering a large quantity, remember that checks expire. Banks will usually honor a check written years ago, but it is better not to let them sit unused for too long. Order what you think you will use in a year or so.
How to move money from savings to checking if you need it
If you keep most of your money in savings but need to write a check, transfer money from savings to checking first. You can do this through your bank's website or app in seconds — just select the amount, choose the accounts, and confirm. There is no fee for transfers between your own accounts at the same bank.
The transfer is usually when ready, though some banks process it overnight. Once the money is in your checking account, you can write a check or use any other payment method. This two-step process (transfer, then pay) is normal and takes less than a minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to order checks when I open a checking account?
No. The bank will ask if you want them, but you can decline. Many people never use checks and do not order them. You can always order them later if you change your mind.
Can I write checks from my savings account?
No. Savings accounts do not come with checks and banks do not allow it. If you need to pay someone from savings, transfer the money to your checking account first, then write a check or use another payment method.
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Most banks take 7 to 10 business days to deliver checks after you order them. If you need checks faster, ask your bank about rush delivery options, which may cost extra, or ask whether they can print temporary checks you can use right away.
Are there cheaper places to order checks than my bank?
Yes. Costco, Deluxe, and other third-party printers often charge less than banks, especially if you order in bulk or choose basic designs. Compare prices before ordering, but make sure the checks are compatible with your bank's systems.
What if I never use checks — do I still need them?
No. If you pay bills online, use your debit card, or transfer money electronically, you may never need a check. Wait a few weeks after opening your account to see how you actually pay for things before deciding to order.