Your bank is usually the cheapest and fastest source for checks
Order checks directly from your bank's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most banks print checks at no cost or for a flat fee of $10 to $25 per box of 50 or 100, depending on the bank and the style you choose. The bank has your account number and routing number on file, so the checks arrive pre-printed and ready to use within 5 to 10 business days.
Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking portal to find the check ordering option. Some banks let you order through their mobile app. If you need checks faster than the standard timeline, ask whether your bank offers expedited printing—this usually costs extra but can cut the wait to 2 to 3 business days.
If you do not have online access or prefer to speak with someone, visit a branch in person. A teller can place the order on the spot and show you the design options available. Bring your debit card or account number so the teller can verify your identity.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank prints checks with your account and routing numbers pre-filled, so ordering directly from them is the simplest route.
- Bank-printed checks cost between $10 and $25 per box and arrive in 5 to 10 business days through standard ordering.
- Third-party check printers like Deluxe and Costco offer lower per-box prices if you order in bulk or have a membership, but you must enter your account details yourself.
- Expedited or specialty check styles cost more but are available from both your bank and third-party printers if you need them.
- Never order checks from unknown websites or sellers—stick to your bank, established check printers, or warehouse clubs you already use.
Third-party check printers cost less per box but require more steps
Deluxe and Costco are the two largest third-party sources. Deluxe prints checks online at deluxe.com and ships them to your address. Costco members can order checks in-store or online at costco.com. Both charge $5 to $15 per box of 50 or 100 checks—roughly half what most banks charge—but the process takes longer because you must provide your account number and routing number yourself.
When you order from a third-party printer, you enter your bank account information into their website or form. The printer then produces checks with that information printed on them. This adds a step and a small security risk if you use an unfamiliar website, so stick to established companies with long track records. Deluxe has printed checks for decades. Costco's checks are printed by Deluxe but sold under Costco's name.
Delivery from third-party printers usually takes 7 to 14 business days. If you need checks sooner, your bank remains the faster option.
Specialty checks and rush orders cost more but arrive faster
If you want checks with a custom design, logo, or image, both your bank and third-party printers offer specialty options. These cost $20 to $50 per box depending on the design complexity. Your bank can usually show you design samples on their website or in a branch.
Rush or expedited printing is available from most banks and from Deluxe. Expedited orders typically arrive in 2 to 3 business days instead of 5 to 10, and cost $15 to $30 extra per order. If you need checks within 24 hours, some banks offer same-day or next-day printing at a branch, though this is rare and only available at larger branches in major cities.
What to do if your bank does not offer check ordering
Some online banks and smaller regional banks do not print checks or offer check ordering through their website. If your bank falls into this category, ask customer service whether they partner with a third-party printer. Many online banks contract with Deluxe or a similar company and can direct you to the right ordering page.
If your bank has no check printing option at all, you can order from Deluxe or Costco directly. You will need your account number, routing number, and bank name. Your routing number appears on your bank's website or on any existing check or deposit slip you have.
How to avoid check fraud when ordering
Order checks only from your bank's official website or phone number, or from established third-party printers like Deluxe and Costco. Do not click links in emails claiming to be from your bank—go directly to your bank's website by typing the address into your browser or calling the number on the back of your debit card.
When you order from a third-party printer, verify the website URL is correct before entering your account information. Scammers sometimes create fake check-ordering sites with URLs that look similar to the real ones. If you are unsure, call Deluxe or Costco directly to confirm the correct website address.
Never order checks from unknown sellers on social media, classified sites, or unfamiliar websites. Fraudsters sometimes sell blank checks or checks printed with stolen account information. Stick to sources you can verify.
Comparing bank checks, Deluxe, and Costco
| Source | Cost per Box | Standard Delivery | Expedited Option | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Your Bank | $10–$25 | 5–10 days | 2–3 days (extra fee) | Speed and simplicity; account info pre-filled |
| Deluxe | $5–$15 | 7–14 days | 2–3 days (extra fee) | Lower cost; bulk orders; custom designs |
| Costco | $5–$12 | 7–14 days | Not available | Members seeking lowest price |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reorder checks online if I already have some from my bank?
Yes. Log into your online banking portal and look for the check ordering option. Your bank will have your account information on file, so you just select the quantity and style. The process takes a few minutes and the new checks arrive within the standard timeframe.
What if I enter the wrong account number when ordering from a third-party printer?
Contact the printer when ready and cancel the order if it has not been printed yet. If the checks have already been printed, do not use them—they will not work with your account. Order a new set with the correct account number. Most printers will reprint at no charge if you catch the error before the first batch ships.
Do I need to tell my bank I ordered checks from a third-party printer?
No. Your bank does not need notification. The checks will work the same way whether they come from your bank or from Deluxe or Costco, as long as your account number and routing number are correct.
How long do checks take to arrive if I order them in person at a branch?
In-person orders follow the same timeline as online orders—usually 5 to 10 business days for standard printing. The teller enters your order into the system, and the checks are printed at a central location and mailed to you. Same-day or next-day printing is rare and only available at some large branches.
Can I use temporary checks while I wait for my permanent checks to arrive?
Some banks provide temporary checks (also called counter checks) at no cost when you open an account or request them in person. These are blank checks printed with your account and routing numbers but without your name. Ask your bank whether they offer them. Temporary checks work the same way as regular checks but look less official.