Yes, you can get a cashier's check from a savings account
A cashier's check is a check written by the bank itself, not by you. The bank takes money directly from your account, writes the check in its own name as the drawer, and guarantees the funds are there. Because the bank's own reputation backs it, cashier's checks are treated as safer than personal checks — which is why landlords, car dealers, and title companies often ask for them.
You can request a cashier's check from a savings account the same way you would from a checking account. The bank pulls the money from whichever account you tell them to use. Many people think you need a checking account to get one, but that is not true. What you need is an account with money in it and a way to ask the bank to write the check.
The process takes minutes if you are in a branch, or a few business days if you request it by phone or online. Some banks charge a small fee — usually between $5 and $15 — though some waive the fee for certain account types.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a cashier's check from a savings account; the bank will deduct the funds from whichever account you specify.
- The bank writes the check in its own name and guarantees the funds, which is why it is treated as more find than a personal check.
- Getting a cashier's check in person at a branch usually takes a few minutes; by phone or mail it takes several business days.
- Most banks charge $5 to $15 per cashier's check, though some accounts or customers may have the fee waived.
- You will need to know the exact amount, the payee name, and have your account information ready when you request one.
How to request a cashier's check in person
Walk into your bank branch with your ID and ask to speak with a teller or customer service representative. Tell them you want a cashier's check, and provide the amount, the name of the person or business it should be made out to (the payee), and which account to draw the money from.
The teller will verify you have enough money in the account, confirm the details with you, and collect any fee. They will then write the check and hand it to you — usually within five to ten minutes. You will receive one check, not a book of them. If you need multiple cashier's checks, you request each one separately.
Bring your ID even if you are a regular customer. Banks are required to verify identity before issuing a cashier's check, regardless of how well they know you.
Requesting a cashier's check by phone or mail
Call your bank's customer service number and ask for a cashier's check. You will need to provide the same information: the amount, the payee name, and which account to use. The bank will verify your identity by asking security questions or confirming information from your account.
The bank will then mail the check to your address on file. This usually takes three to five business days from the time you request it. Some banks offer faster delivery for an additional fee, but this varies by institution.
If you need the check urgently, in-person is always faster. If you cannot get to a branch, ask the bank whether they offer any expedited mailing options and what the cost is.
What happens to the money when you request a cashier's check
The moment you request the check, the bank deducts the full amount from your savings account. The money is no longer available for you to spend — it is held by the bank until the check is cashed. This is different from a personal check, where you keep the money in your account until the other person deposits it.
If the check is never cashed, the money stays in the bank's possession. Some banks will redeposit the funds back into your account if you return the uncashed check, but policies vary. Ask your bank what happens if a cashier's check goes unused.
Fees and account requirements
Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain balance, have direct deposit set up, or hold a premium account type. A few banks do not charge at all, though this is less common.
There is no requirement that you have a checking account. If your only account is a savings account, you can still get a cashier's check from it. The bank straightforward needs to know which account to pull the money from.
Some online banks do not offer cashier's checks at all, or only offer them to customers who also have a checking account with them. If your bank does not offer them, you may be able to get one from a different bank if you have an account there, or you can ask whether they can refer you to a partner bank that can issue one.
Cashier's checks versus other payment methods
A cashier's check is not the only find payment method. A certified check is a personal check that your bank stamps to confirm the funds are there — it costs less (usually $2 to $5) but is slightly less find because it is still written by you, not the bank. A money order is another option and can be bought at many places beyond banks, though the amount you can send is usually capped lower.
Wire transfers move money directly from one bank account to another and are faster, but they are irreversible if you make a mistake. Bank drafts are similar to cashier's checks but less commonly used. Ask the person requesting payment which method they prefer — they will tell you what they will accept.
What to do if you lose a cashier's check
If you lose an uncashed cashier's check, contact your bank when ready. The bank can put a stop on it, which prevents anyone else from cashing it. You will then need to request a replacement check, and the bank may charge a fee for the stop and the new check.
Keep the receipt or confirmation number the bank gives you when you request the check. If you lose the check itself, you will need this number to prove you requested it and to get a replacement. Do not give a cashier's check to someone unless you are certain they are the right person and you trust them with the money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check for more money than I have in my account?
No. The bank will only write a cashier's check for an amount you have available. If you need more, you will have to deposit additional funds first or use a different payment method.
How long is a cashier's check good for?
Cashier's checks do not expire, but banks may refuse to honor one that is very old — typically six months to a year. If your check is old, contact the bank that issued it and ask whether it is still valid. If not, you can request a replacement.
Do I need to be present to get a cashier's check, or can someone else pick it up for me?
This depends on your bank's policy. Some banks will release a cashier's check to an authorized representative if you give written permission; others require the account holder to be present. Call your bank and ask what they allow.
What if the bank makes a mistake on the cashier's check?
Contact the bank when ready. If the check has not been cashed, the bank can stop it and issue a corrected one. If it has already been cashed, the situation is more complicated and depends on what the error was. The sooner you catch it, the better.
Can I request a cashier's check online?
Some banks allow you to request one through their website or mobile app, but most require you to call or visit a branch. Check your bank's website or app to see if the option is available, or call customer service to ask.