You order checks directly from your bank, a third-party check printer, or sometimes both

Once your checking account is open, you can order checks through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling their customer service line. Most banks offer this as a standard service—some provide the first order free or at a reduced cost, while others charge a per-box fee. You can also order checks from independent printers like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart, which are often cheaper than ordering through your bank.

The process takes about 7 to 14 business days from the time you place the order until the checks arrive at your address. Some banks offer expedited shipping for an additional fee if you need them faster. You'll need to have your account open and your account number on hand before you order.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let you order checks online, through their app, or by phone within days of opening your account.
  • Your bank will print your name, address, and account number on the checks automatically—you only choose the style and quantity.
  • Third-party check printers are usually cheaper per box than ordering through your bank, though shipping takes the same time.
  • Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 business days; expedited options exist but cost extra.
  • You can start using your account before checks arrive by using your debit card, transfers, or bill pay features.

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 in the account services or settings section. You'll select the quantity (typically 25, 50, or 100 checks per box), the check style or design, and confirm your mailing address. Your bank will automatically fill in your name, address, and account number—you don't enter those yourself.

At checkout, you'll see the cost per box and any shipping fees. Some banks waive shipping or offer free first orders; others charge $10 to $20 per box depending on the design you choose. After you place the order, you'll receive a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date. You can usually track the order status in your account or through email updates.

Ordering checks by phone or in person

Call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on your account statement) and ask to order checks. A representative will walk you through the same choices—quantity, style, and address confirmation. Some banks also let you order checks at a branch location, though this is less common than online ordering.

Ordering by phone takes about 10 minutes. You'll need your account number and the address where you want the checks mailed. If you're ordering in person at a branch, bring your ID and account information. Phone and in-person orders follow the same 7 to 14 day delivery timeline as online orders.

Using third-party check printers for lower costs

Companies like Deluxe, Walmart, Costco, and Sam's Club print checks for less than most banks charge. A box of 100 checks from a third-party printer typically costs $8 to $15, compared to $15 to $25 through your bank. You'll need your routing number and account number to place the order, both of which appear on the bottom left of any check or in your online banking account.

Third-party printers offer more design options than many banks—colors, images, and layouts that your bank may not stock. Delivery time is the same as bank orders (7 to 14 business days), and you can order online or by phone. The checks are legal and work exactly like bank-issued checks; the only difference is who printed them.

What information appears on your checks automatically

Your bank or printer will print your name, address, phone number (if you provide it), and account number on every check. The routing number—a nine-digit code that identifies your bank—is also printed automatically. You do not fill in these details yourself; they come from the information your bank has on file.

When you write a check, you fill in only the date, the payee name, the amount in words and numbers, and your signature. The recipient uses the routing and account numbers printed on the check to deposit or cash it. If your address changes after you order checks, you can still use the old checks—the account number is what matters for processing, not the address.

How long checks take to arrive and what to do while you wait

Standard delivery is 7 to 14 business days from the date you place the order. This timeline accounts for printing, quality checks, and mail delivery. If you need checks faster, some banks offer 3 to 5 business day expedited shipping for an extra fee, usually $10 to $20.

You don't have to wait for checks to arrive to use your account. You can pay bills through your bank's bill pay feature (which sends a check on your behalf), transfer money to other accounts, use your debit card for purchases, or set up direct deposit for paychecks. Many people never use paper checks at all—if you don't need them, you don't have to order them.

Reordering checks and managing your supply

You can order new checks anytime through the same method you used for your first order. Most people reorder when they have about 10 to 15 checks left in their current box, which gives them time to receive the new box before running out. If you run out unexpectedly, you can ask your bank for a temporary supply or order expedited checks.

If you close your account or change banks, stop using old checks when ready. Checks from a closed account will be rejected when deposited. If you move and want your address updated on your checks, you'll need to order a new box—your bank cannot reprint old checks with a new address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks before my account is fully open?

Most banks let you order checks as soon as your account is active and you have an account number, which is usually the same day you open the account. Some banks require a 24-hour waiting period. Check your bank's website or call to confirm when you can place your first order.

What if I made a mistake on my check order?

If you catch the error before the checks ship, contact your bank or printer when ready to cancel and reorder. If the checks have already shipped or arrived, you'll need to order a new box with the correct information. Most banks will not reprint or refund an order once it has been processed.

Do I have to order checks from my bank?

No. You can order from any third-party printer as long as you have your routing number and account number. Third-party checks work identically to bank-issued checks and are often cheaper. Your bank does not require you to order through them.

What happens if my checks arrive damaged?

Contact your bank or the printer within a few days of receiving them. Most will reprint and reship damaged checks at no charge. Keep the damaged checks and the original packaging as proof if the printer asks for it.

Can I use checks from a closed account?

No. Once you close an account, checks from that account will be rejected. If you have leftover checks, destroy them or contact your bank for instructions. Do not attempt to use them.