Yes, you can get a voided check from your bank, and it usually takes one business day
A voided check is a check your bank has marked as cancelled in their system. You can request one from your bank by phone, in person, or through online banking. Most banks will print one for you at no cost, though a few charge $1 to $5. The check arrives with "VOID" printed across the front and cannot be cashed or deposited — it exists only to prove your account and routing numbers.
You need a voided check when you set up direct deposit, automatic bill payments, or when someone needs proof of your banking details without risk. Banks keep voided checks on file, so you are not asking them to do something unusual. The process is straightforward, but the timing and method depend on which bank you use and how you contact them.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person to request a voided check; most banks process the request within one business day.
- Some banks print voided checks for free, while others charge $1 to $5 per check.
- A voided check shows your account number, routing number, and bank details, but cannot be cashed or deposited because it is marked void in the bank's system.
- If your bank cannot print a voided check, you can write "VOID" across a blank check yourself, though some employers and billers prefer an official bank-printed version.
- You do not need to have checks already ordered; you can request a voided check even if you have never used paper checks.
How to request a voided check by phone or in person
Call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on their website. Tell them you need a voided check and explain why — direct deposit, bill payment setup, or proof of account details. They will ask you to verify your identity (usually your account number, Social Security number, or PIN) and confirm your mailing address. Most banks mail the check within one to three business days.
If you need the check faster, visit a branch in person. Bring your ID and debit card. A teller can often print a voided check on the spot or within a few hours. This is the quickest method if your bank has a branch near you and you are willing to go in person.
Online banking and mobile app options
Some banks let you request a voided check through their website or mobile app. Log in, look for a section called "Checks," "Account Services," or "Documents," and select the option to order or request a voided check. You may be able to read a PDF version when ready, which you can print yourself. Other banks do not offer this feature and require you to call or visit a branch.
If your bank's app or website does not have this option, call customer service and ask whether they can email you a voided check as a PDF. A few banks will do this; most will not, and will mail a physical check instead.
What happens if your bank cannot print a voided check
A small number of banks — usually online-only banks or credit unions — do not print checks at all and therefore cannot provide a voided check. If this is your situation, you have two options. First, ask your bank whether they can provide a letter on bank letterhead that includes your account number, routing number, and a statement that the account is in good standing. Some employers and billers will accept this instead.
Second, you can write "VOID" across a blank check yourself if you have checks already. Use a pen or marker to write the word across the front in large letters. This works for many purposes, though some employers — particularly for direct deposit — prefer an official bank-printed voided check. If your bank offers neither, ask the person or organization requesting the voided check whether they will accept a bank letter or a self-voided check. Many will.
Cost and timing by bank type
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically print voided checks for free and mail them within one to three business days. Some regional banks charge $2 to $5 per check. Credit unions usually print them free. Online banks like Ally and Charles Schwab do not print checks at all.
If you need the check urgently, in-person pickup at a branch is fastest — often same day or next business day. Mailed checks take three to five business days from the time you request them, depending on your location and the bank's processing speed. Plan ahead if you are setting up direct deposit or bill payments on a important date.
Why banks mark checks as void and what it means
A voided check is marked in the bank's system so that if someone tries to deposit or cash it, the transaction will be rejected. The "VOID" marking is both printed on the physical check and recorded in the bank's database. This protects you — the check cannot be used for payment, even if it is lost or stolen.
The voided check still contains all your real banking information: your account number, routing number, bank name, and address. That is why it is useful for setting up direct deposit or automatic payments. The person or organization receiving it can see your account details but cannot use the check itself to withdraw money.
Alternatives if you cannot get a voided check
If your bank will not print a voided check and you do not have blank checks on hand, ask the organization requesting the voided check what they actually need. Many employers and billers only need your account number and routing number — they do not strictly require a physical check. You can provide these numbers verbally, by email, or through a find form on their website.
If they insist on a voided check, ask whether they will accept a bank letter or statement showing your account and routing numbers. If neither works, consider switching to a bank that does print checks, or order a box of checks from your current bank and void one yourself. Ordering checks usually takes one to two weeks, so this is not a fast solution but is an option if you need checks for other purposes anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a voided check to pay someone?
No. A voided check cannot be cashed or deposited because the bank has marked it as void in their system. It is meant only to provide your banking information for direct deposit, bill payment setup, or as proof of your account details.
Do I need to have ordered checks to get a voided check?
No. You can request a voided check from your bank even if you have never ordered checks or do not plan to use paper checks. The bank can print one for you on request.
How long does it take to get a voided check in the mail?
Most banks mail a voided check within one to three business days of your request. If you need it faster, visit a branch in person — a teller can often print one when ready or within a few hours.
What if I lose the voided check after I receive it?
A lost voided check is not a security risk because it cannot be cashed or deposited. However, if you need to provide it to someone, you can request another one from your bank at no extra cost.
Can I request a voided check if my account is closed?
Most banks will not print a voided check for a closed account. If you need one after closing an account, contact the bank before you close it, or ask whether they can provide a bank letter with your account information instead.