Most banks charge between $10 and $15 for a cashier's check, though some waive the fee if you meet account requirements

Yes, banks charge for cashier's checks in most cases. The fee typically ranges from $10 to $15 per check, though some banks charge less and a few charge more. A few banks waive the fee entirely if you maintain a certain account balance, have direct deposit set up, or hold a premium account tier. The fee covers the bank's cost to verify funds, print the check, and may provide payment — which is why a cashier's check costs more than a regular personal check.

The amount you pay depends on which bank you use and what type of account you hold. A customer with a basic checking account at one bank might pay $12, while someone with a premium account at the same bank pays nothing. Credit unions often charge less than traditional banks, sometimes $5 to $8 per check. Online banks and some regional banks may not offer cashier's checks at all, or only to customers who visit a branch in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Cashier's check fees range from $0 to $20 depending on your bank and account type, with $10 to $15 being most common.
  • Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance, have direct deposit, or hold a premium checking account.
  • Credit unions typically charge less than traditional banks for cashier's checks.
  • You must request a cashier's check in person at a branch — you cannot order one online or by phone at most banks.
  • The bank deducts the fee from your account at the time you request the check, not when the recipient cashes it.

What determines the fee your bank charges

The fee amount depends on three main factors: which bank you use, what type of account you hold, and whether you meet any fee-waiver conditions. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase typically charge $10 to $15. Smaller regional banks and credit unions often charge $5 to $10. Some online-only banks do not offer cashier's checks to retail customers at all.

Account tier matters significantly. A basic checking account holder might pay the full fee, while someone with a premium or wealth management account may have it waived. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $1,500 to $5,000), have a paycheck deposited directly each month, or hold multiple products with the bank. A few banks waive one or two cashier's checks per month for all customers, then charge for additional ones.

The fee is deducted from your account when ready when you request the check, not when the recipient cashes it. This means the money leaves your account the same day, even if the check sits uncashed for weeks.

How to find out what your specific bank charges

The fastest way is to call your bank's customer service line or visit your branch in person and ask directly. Most banks post their fee schedules online under "Checking Account Fees" or "Service Charges," though the language varies — some list it as "Cashier's Check Fee," others as "Official Check Fee" or "Bank Check Fee."

If you bank online, log into your account and look for a link labeled "Fees," "Pricing," or "Account Terms." Some banks hide the fee schedule in a PDF you have to read. If you cannot find it online, call the number on the back of your debit card and ask directly — the representative can tell you the fee and whether you may have access to for a waiver based on your account status.

If you are considering switching banks partly because of cashier's check fees, ask about the waiver conditions before opening an account. Some banks advertise "free cashier's checks" but only for customers who maintain a $10,000 balance or higher.

When you might avoid the fee

Several situations can eliminate the cashier's check fee. If you hold a premium account (often called "Gold," "Platinum," or "Preferred"), the fee is usually waived. If your bank offers a monthly allotment of free checks — say, two free cashier's checks per month — you can use those before paying for additional ones. Some banks waive the fee for customers who maintain a high balance, receive direct deposit, or have a mortgage or investment account with the bank.

Credit unions often charge less or waive the fee entirely for members, especially if you have been with the credit union for a certain length of time or maintain a savings account. If you are a member of a credit union and need a cashier's check, it is worth asking whether the fee applies to you.

A few banks waive cashier's check fees during promotional periods, though this is uncommon. If you are opening a new account, ask whether the promotion includes free cashier's checks for the first few months.

Alternatives if the fee is too high

If your bank charges more than you want to pay, you have other options. A money order costs $1 to $5 at most post offices, grocery stores, and convenience stores, and serves the same purpose as a cashier's check for smaller amounts (usually up to $1,000). Money orders are not may provide by a bank, but they are still safer than personal checks because the sender must pay the full amount upfront.

A certified check is similar to a cashier's check but drawn on your own account rather than the bank's. The bank stamps it "certified" to confirm the funds are there. Some banks charge the same fee as a cashier's check; others charge less or waive it. Ask your bank whether a certified check is an option and what it costs.

For very large amounts or when the recipient specifically requires a cashier's check, paying the fee is usually necessary. But for smaller payments or when the recipient is flexible, a money order or certified check can save you money.

What happens if you need the check quickly

Most banks issue cashier's checks the same day you request them, as long as you visit a branch during business hours. You cannot order a cashier's check online or by phone — you must go to a branch in person, bring your ID, and provide the payee name and amount. The teller will verify your account has sufficient funds, print the check, and charge your account when ready.

If you need a cashier's check after hours or on a weekend, you will have to wait until the branch reopens. Some banks offer Saturday hours, which can help. If you are in a true emergency, a money order from a 24-hour convenience store or post office is the only option that works outside normal banking hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without paying a fee?

Yes, if you meet your bank's fee-waiver conditions. These typically include maintaining a minimum balance, having direct deposit set up, or holding a premium account. Call your bank to ask whether you may have access to. Some credit unions waive the fee for all members.

What if I need multiple cashier's checks?

You pay the fee for each check. Some banks offer a monthly allotment of free checks (for example, two free per month), then charge for additional ones. If you need many checks, ask whether your bank has a bulk discount or whether switching to a credit union would save money.

Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?

No. A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account and may provide by the bank. A certified check is drawn on your account but stamped by the bank to confirm the funds exist. Both are safer than personal checks, but a cashier's check carries the bank's full may provide. Fees may differ between the two.

Can I get a refund if the cashier's check is never cashed?

No. The fee is non-refundable once the check is issued. If the check is lost or never used, you can request a replacement, but you will pay the fee again. Some banks will issue a replacement without an additional fee if you lost the original, but policies vary.

What if my bank doesn't offer cashier's checks?

Some online banks and smaller institutions do not issue cashier's checks. In that case, ask whether they offer certified checks instead, or visit a branch of a bank where you have an account. You can also use a money order as an alternative for smaller amounts.