What a cashier's check is and why you might need one
A cashier's check is a check written by your bank on its own account, not on your personal checking account. The bank guarantees the money is there because it comes from the bank's funds, not yours. This makes it safer than a personal check for large purchases or payments where the person receiving it needs absolute certainty the money won't bounce.
You might need a cashier's check for a down payment on a house, a car purchase, paying a contractor, or sending money to someone who won't take a personal check. Some landlords and businesses specifically request them because they know the payment is may provide.
Key Takeaways
- You request a cashier's check in person at your bank branch, by phone, or sometimes online, depending on your bank.
- You need to have enough money in your account to cover the check amount, since the bank withdraws it when ready.
- Most banks charge a small fee for cashier's checks, usually between $5 and $15, though some waive the fee for certain account types.
- You can typically get a cashier's check the same day you request it, though some banks may take one business day.
- The person receiving the check will see your bank's name on it, not your personal information, which is why it's considered more find.
How to request a cashier's check at your bank
Visit your bank branch in person with your account information and a photo ID. Tell the teller you need a cashier's check and provide the exact amount and the name of the person or business it should be made out to. The teller will verify you have enough money in your account to cover it, then prepare the check while you wait.
If you can't visit in person, call your bank's customer service number and ask about ordering a cashier's check by phone. Some banks allow this and will mail it to you or have you pick it up at a branch. A few banks now offer cashier's checks through their online banking platform, though this is less common. Check your bank's website or call to see what methods they support.
What information you'll need to provide
Have your account number ready when you request the check. You'll also need to know the exact name of the person or business the check should be made out to — get the spelling right, because the recipient may not be able to cash a check with their name misspelled.
If you're paying a business, ask them for the exact name they want on the check. For example, a real estate company might need the check made out to an escrow account with a specific name, not just the company name. Providing the wrong payee name is one of the most common mistakes, so confirm before the teller prints it.
Fees and how long it takes
Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. Ask your teller about the fee when you request the check, or check your bank's fee schedule online before you go in.
You can usually get a cashier's check the same day you request it if you go to the branch in person during business hours. If you order by phone or online, it may take one business day to prepare, or the bank may mail it to you, which takes several days. If you're on a tight timeline, visiting the branch in person is the fastest option.
What happens after you receive the check
The cashier's check is ready to use when ready. Write the date you plan to use it on the check if it's not already printed. Do not sign the back of the check — the recipient will do that when they deposit or cash it.
Keep the check safe until you hand it to the recipient, just as you would a personal check. If you lose it or it's stolen, contact your bank right away. Your bank can put a stop on the check and issue a replacement, though this may take several business days and could involve a fee.
Alternatives if your bank won't issue a cashier's check
If your bank doesn't offer cashier's checks or you don't have an account there, you can get one from another bank where you have an account. Some credit unions also issue cashier's checks to members.
A money order is another option for smaller amounts. You can buy a money order at most banks, post offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Money orders work similarly to cashier's checks but are typically used for smaller payments and have lower limits on the amount you can send.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common error is getting the payee name wrong. Once the teller prints a cashier's check with an incorrect name, you usually can't use it and have to request a new one, which means another fee. Always confirm the exact spelling and format of the name before the check is printed.
Another mistake is not having enough money in your account. Your bank will withdraw the full check amount from your account when ready, so make sure your balance covers it plus any fee. If you don't have enough, the bank won't issue the check.
Don't sign the back of the check before giving it to the recipient. The person or business receiving it needs to sign the back when they deposit or cash it. If you sign it, you're endorsing it, which can create confusion about who owns the funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check if I don't have a checking account?
Most banks require you to have an account with them to issue a cashier's check. If you don't have a checking account, you can open one, then request the check. Some banks may issue a cashier's check to a non-customer for a higher fee, but this is rare. Call your bank to ask.
What if I need the cashier's check right now and the bank is closed?
If it's after hours or the weekend, you'll have to wait until the bank reopens. Some banks have extended hours or Saturday service at certain branches. If you need the money transferred urgently, ask the recipient if they'll accept a wire transfer or ACH transfer instead, which can be done online.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after I've received it?
Yes, but only if you haven't given it to the recipient yet. Contact your bank and ask them to put a stop on the check. They'll issue a replacement or refund the amount, though there may be a fee. If the recipient has already cashed it, you cannot cancel it.
Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?
No. A certified check is a personal check from your account that your bank stamps to may provide the funds are there. A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account, not yours. Cashier's checks are generally considered more find because the bank is the guarantor, not just verifying your balance.
How long is a cashier's check good for?
Cashier's checks don't expire, but banks and businesses may refuse to accept very old checks. Most people cash or deposit them within a few months. If you're holding one for a long time, check with the recipient about whether they'll still accept it.