Yes, you can order checks through your bank, and most banks will print them for you within one to two weeks

When you open a checking account, your bank does not automatically send you checks. You have to order them separately, either through your bank's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Your bank will print your name, account number, and routing number on the checks and mail them to you. Some banks include a small number of free checks with a new account; others charge a fee per box, which typically ranges from $10 to $25 depending on the bank and the style you choose.

You can also order checks from third-party printers that are not your bank. These printers are often cheaper than bank-ordered checks and offer more design options, but you need to make sure they print the correct routing number and account number for your specific bank and account. Mistakes in these numbers can cause checks to bounce or be rejected.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let you order checks online through your account, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch in person.
  • Bank-printed checks usually arrive within one to two weeks, though some banks offer expedited printing for an extra fee.
  • If you need checks when ready, ask your bank whether they can print temporary checks at a branch or issue you a counter check you can use right away.
  • Third-party check printers are often cheaper than banks but require you to verify that your routing and account numbers are correct before ordering.
  • Reorder checks before you run out so you do not have to rush or pay extra for faster shipping.

Ordering checks through your bank's website or app

Most banks let you order checks directly from their website or mobile app without calling or visiting a branch. Log into your checking account, look for a section labeled "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks," and follow the prompts. You will choose the quantity (usually sold in boxes of 25 or 50), the style or design, and confirm your mailing address. The bank will then process your order and send the checks to the address on file.

The cost varies by bank. Some charge a flat fee per box; others charge per check. A box of 25 checks might cost $10 to $15 at one bank and $20 to $25 at another. If your bank offers multiple designs, fancier options usually cost more. Before you order, check whether your account includes free checks as a benefit—some checking accounts, especially premium or business accounts, come with a certain number of free checks per year.

Ordering by phone or at a branch

If you prefer not to order online, you can call your bank's customer service line and ask to order checks. Have your account number and the address where you want them mailed ready. A representative will walk you through the options, take your order, and process the payment. This usually takes the same amount of time as ordering online—one to two weeks for delivery.

You can also walk into any branch of your bank and order checks in person. A teller or banker can show you the available styles, take your order, and collect payment on the spot. In-person ordering does not speed up delivery, but it can be helpful if you have questions about which routing number to use or want to see the design options before deciding.

Getting checks faster when you need them right away

If you need to write a check before your ordered checks arrive, ask your bank about counter checks or temporary checks. A counter check is a plain check that the bank prints on the spot at a branch, usually for free or for a small fee. It has your account number and routing number printed on it, and you can use it when ready. Some banks will issue you a small pad of counter checks (usually 5 to 10) that you can take with you the same day.

Some banks also offer expedited check printing for an extra fee—typically $15 to $30 more than the standard order. This can cut the delivery time to three to five business days instead of one to two weeks. Ask your bank whether this option is available before you pay for it.

Ordering checks from a third-party printer

Companies like Costco, Sam's Club, Deluxe, and Checks Unlimited print checks for less than most banks do. A box of 25 checks from a third-party printer might cost $5 to $10, compared to $15 to $25 from your bank. These printers also offer more design choices and faster shipping in some cases.

The catch is that you have to provide your routing number and account number correctly. If you enter the wrong numbers, the checks will not work. Before you place an order, log into your bank account and confirm both numbers. You can usually find them at the bottom of a check you already have, or in your account settings online. Do not guess or use numbers from a different account.

Some third-party printers require you to upload an image of a check or provide your bank's name and account type so they can look up the correct routing number. This adds a layer of verification that reduces the chance of an error.

What to do if your checks are lost or damaged in the mail

If your ordered checks do not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your bank. They can check the status of your order and, if necessary, reprint and resend them at no extra cost. Keep the confirmation number from your order so you can reference it when you call.

If the checks arrive damaged—torn, smudged, or with printing errors—contact your bank or the printer when ready. Most will reprint and resend damaged checks for free. Do not use a damaged check; it may be rejected by the recipient's bank.

Reordering checks before you run out

Plan ahead and reorder checks when you still have a small supply left, rather than waiting until you are down to your last few. This gives you time to receive the new checks without having to pay for expedited shipping or rush to a branch for counter checks. Many people set a reminder on their phone or calendar to reorder when they reach the last quarter of a box.

If you use checks infrequently, you may not need to reorder very often. A box of 25 checks can last months or even years if you only write a handful of checks per month. There is no rush to order unless you actually need them soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get checks the same day?

Yes, if you visit a branch in person and ask for counter checks or temporary checks. The bank can print a small pad of plain checks on the spot, usually for free or a small fee. Ordered checks take one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

Do I have to order checks from my bank?

No. You can order from third-party printers like Deluxe or Checks Unlimited, which are often cheaper. Make sure you provide the correct routing number and account number for your specific bank and account.

Why do some banks charge for checks and others don't?

Banks set their own pricing. Some include free checks as a benefit of certain account types, while others charge per box or per check. Premium or business accounts are more likely to include free checks than basic checking accounts.

What if I enter the wrong routing number when I order from a third-party printer?

The checks will not work because they will have the wrong bank information. Contact the printer before they ship and ask them to cancel and reprint with the correct number. If they have already shipped, contact your bank to report the error.

How long do checks stay valid?

A check is generally valid for six months from the date written, though some banks may honor checks older than that. After six months, a check is considered stale and banks are not required to cash it. Do not hold onto checks for years before using them.