Most banks will issue a cashier's check, but not all branches carry them and some charge a fee
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, signed by a bank employee, and may provide by that bank. Because the bank itself is the payer, not you, the recipient knows the money is there. You can get one from your own bank, from a bank where you don't have an account, or sometimes from a credit union. The catch: not every branch keeps them in stock, some banks charge $5 to $15 per check, and you'll need to wait anywhere from a few minutes to a few business days depending on how you order.
Key Takeaways
- Your own bank is the fastest and often cheapest source for a cashier's check, usually issued same-day if you visit a branch in person.
- Banks that don't know you will still issue cashier's checks, but may require you to have cash on hand or a debit card to pay the amount upfront.
- Not every branch location stocks blank cashier's checks, so call ahead before you go in.
- Fees range from free to $15 per check depending on your bank and account type, and some banks charge more for rush orders.
- Credit unions often issue cashier's checks to non-members, though policies vary by institution.
Getting a cashier's check from your own bank
If you have a checking or savings account, your bank is your easiest route. Walk into any branch with your ID and the amount you need to pay, and most will issue the check on the spot—usually within 10 to 15 minutes. You don't need to order ahead unless you want to be certain the branch has them ready.
The fee depends on your account type and bank. Some banks waive the fee for customers with premium accounts or direct deposit. Others charge $5 to $10 per check regardless. Ask your bank what they charge before you go in; the fee will be deducted from your account or added to the amount you pay.
If you bank online-only with a bank like Ally or Charles Schwab, you'll need to order by mail or phone. These banks typically mail cashier's checks within one to three business days, and some charge $15 or more per check because they have no physical branches.
Getting a cashier's check from a bank where you don't have an account
Banks will issue cashier's checks to people without accounts, but the process is stricter. You'll need to bring a government-issued ID and pay the full amount in cash, a debit card, or sometimes a personal check drawn on another bank. Some banks won't accept personal checks for this purpose, so call first.
The fee is usually higher—$10 to $15—because the bank has no relationship with you and no way to verify your identity beyond your ID. Processing time is also longer: expect 24 hours to a few business days, not same-day service. Some branches may refuse to issue one if they're busy or if the amount is very large.
Credit unions and cashier's checks
Credit unions often issue cashier's checks to non-members, though policies vary. Some charge the same fee as banks ($5 to $10), while others charge more or require you to become a member first. Call your local credit union before you go in.
If you're a credit union member, the process is identical to getting one from your bank: bring your ID, state the amount, and wait 10 to 15 minutes. Fees are usually lower for members than for non-members.
What to bring and what to expect
Bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you're paying with a debit card, bring that. If you're paying with cash, bring the exact amount or slightly more. If you're paying from your account, bring nothing but your ID.
Tell the teller the exact amount the check should be for, who it should be made payable to, and whether you need it same-day or can wait. Same-day service is standard at branches with inventory; if they don't have a blank check on hand, they may be able to print one or order it for the next day.
The bank will fill in the amount, payee name, date, and their own signature. You do not sign a cashier's check. The recipient will sign it on the back when they deposit or cash it.
Fees and timing across different banks
| Bank Type | Typical Fee | Same-Day Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your own bank (branch) | $0–$10 | Yes, usually | Fee waived for some account tiers; fastest option |
| Your own bank (online-only) | $10–$15 | No | Mailed within 1–3 business days |
| Bank where you have no account | $10–$15 | No | Requires cash or debit card; 24 hours to several days |
| Credit union (member) | $0–$10 | Yes, usually | Varies by institution |
| Credit union (non-member) | $5–$15 | No | May require membership; call ahead |
When a cashier's check is not available
Some very small branches or credit unions may not stock cashier's checks at all. If you call ahead and they don't have them, ask if they can order one for the next day or direct you to a branch that does. Large branches in busy areas almost always have them.
If you're in a hurry and your bank can't issue same-day, ask about a certified check instead. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps and guarantees. It's faster to produce (sometimes issued in minutes) and costs less, though not all recipients accept it. Money orders are another alternative if the amount is under $1,000 and you need something issued when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a cashier's check online and pick it up in person?
Some banks allow this, but most require you to order by phone or in person. If your bank has online ordering, you'll typically place the order and pick it up at a branch within one to two business days. Call your bank to ask if this option exists for your account.
What's the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?
A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account and signed by the bank. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps and guarantees. Cashier's checks are more widely accepted and take longer to produce. Certified checks are faster but some recipients won't take them.
Do I need an account at the bank to get a cashier's check?
No. Any bank will issue one to a non-customer, but you'll pay a higher fee ($10–$15), need to bring cash or a debit card to cover the amount, and wait longer for it. Your own bank is always the cheapest and fastest option.
How long does a cashier's check take to clear?
Once the recipient deposits it, a cashier's check usually clears within one business day because the bank's own funds are behind it. Personal checks can take three to five days. This is why cashier's checks are preferred for large transactions like down payments or home purchases.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after it's been issued?
Yes, but it's complicated. You'll need to contact the bank that issued it, provide proof you didn't lose it or have it stolen, and usually wait 30 to 90 days to confirm it hasn't been cashed. The bank may charge a fee ($15–$30) to cancel and reissue. If the check has already been cashed, you cannot cancel it.