You order checks directly from your bank, or from a third-party printer your bank approves

Your bank does not automatically send you checks when you open a checking account. You have to order them. Most banks let you order through their website or mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. Some banks print checks in-house and can have them ready in a few days. Others use third-party printers and take one to two weeks. A few banks no longer offer checks at all, or charge a fee to order them.

The cost varies. Many banks include a certain number of checks free with your account, or charge a flat fee per box (usually $10 to $20 for 100 checks). Some charge per check. If your bank does not offer checks, you can order from an approved third-party printer — your bank will have a list — but you will pay out of pocket and the checks must match your bank's routing and account numbers exactly.

You need your account number and routing number to order. Both appear on any deposit slip or statement your bank has already given you. If you do not have them, call your bank or log into your online account.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let you order checks online, by phone, or in person, and the order takes one to two weeks to arrive.
  • Many banks include your first box of checks free or charge a flat fee per box, though some charge per individual check.
  • If your bank does not offer checks, you can order from a third-party printer your bank approves, but you pay the full cost yourself.
  • You need your account number and routing number to place an order, both of which appear on your statements or deposit slips.
  • Some banks print checks in-house and can deliver them in a few days; others use external printers and take longer.

Ordering checks through your bank's website or app

Log into your online banking account and look for a "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks" link, usually under account services or settings. You will select the style and quantity you want, confirm your account details, and pay if there is a charge. The bank will show you the estimated delivery date before you complete the order.

If you cannot find the option online, your bank may require you to call or visit a branch. Some smaller banks and credit unions do not offer online check ordering yet.

Ordering by phone or in person

Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Tell them you want to order checks. They will verify your identity, confirm your address, and ask how many boxes you want and what style. Payment happens over the phone or is added to your account.

You can also walk into any branch of your bank with your ID and debit card. A teller can take your order on the spot. In-person orders sometimes arrive faster because the branch can print them locally or send them directly to a nearby processing center.

Understanding check styles and costs

Banks usually offer a basic style at no extra cost and premium styles (with your name printed in color, with images, or with extra security features) for a higher price. The premium options cost more per box but do not affect how the checks work — they are all valid and process the same way.

Some banks charge for duplicate checks (a copy of each check you write stays in your book for your records). Others include them. Ask before you order if the price matters to you. Duplicate checks cost a few dollars more per box.

What to do if your bank does not offer checks

A small number of banks, especially online-only banks, do not print checks at all. If yours is one of them, ask your bank for a list of approved third-party check printers. Common ones include Deluxe, Costco (if you are a member), and Walmart. You order directly from the printer and pay the full cost — usually $15 to $30 per box of 100.

The printer will ask for your routing number, account number, and address. Your bank must have already given you the routing number. If you do not have it, call your bank and ask. The checks will arrive in one to two weeks. Make sure the printer uses your correct routing and account numbers, or the checks will not work.

How long checks take to arrive

Standard delivery is usually 7 to 14 business days from the time you place your order. Some banks offer expedited delivery for an extra fee — usually $10 to $15 — and can get checks to you in 3 to 5 business days. A few banks that print in-house can deliver in 2 to 3 days.

If you need checks urgently, call your bank and ask if they offer rush printing or if you can pick up checks at a branch. Some branches keep blank check stock on hand and can print a small number for you the same day, though this is less common now.

Reordering checks and managing your supply

You can order checks as many times as you need. Most people order a new box every year or two, depending on how often they write checks. If you run out, you can place a rush order, or you can ask your bank for a temporary check or starter checks while you wait for your regular order to arrive.

Keep track of your check numbers so you know when you are running low. If you switch banks, do not use old checks from your previous account — they will be rejected because the routing number will be wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks before my account is fully set up?

No. Your bank needs to confirm your account is active and has been assigned a routing number and account number before checks can be printed. This usually happens within one business day of opening the account. After that, you can order checks when ready.

What if I made a mistake on my check order?

Contact your bank right away. If the order has not been sent to the printer yet, they can usually cancel it or change it. If it has already been printed and shipped, you will have to wait for the checks to arrive and then order a new box with the correct information. Some banks will refund the cost of the incorrect order.

Do I have to use my bank's checks, or can I use any checks?

You can only use checks printed with your specific routing number and account number. Checks from a different bank or account will not work. You can order from a third-party printer, but the printer must use your bank's routing number and your account number.

Is there a limit to how many checks I can order at once?

Most banks do not have a limit. You can order as many boxes as you want in a single order. Ordering in bulk sometimes costs less per box, though not all banks offer bulk discounts.

What happens if my checks arrive damaged or with errors?

Contact your bank or the printer when ready. They will reprint and ship a replacement box at no cost. Keep the damaged checks until the replacement arrives so you can show them if the bank asks for proof.