Yes, you can get a check at the bank, and it's one of the most common ways to withdraw money
When you want to take money out of your bank account, you have several options. The simplest is to walk into a branch and ask the teller for cash — they hand you bills and coins on the spot. But if you want to move money to someone else's account or pay a bill by mail, you can ask the bank to issue a check, which is a written order telling the bank to pay that person from your account.
Getting a check from your bank is free if you already have checks printed with your account number on them. If you don't have any, the bank can print new ones for you, usually for a small fee (often $10 to $30 per box of 25 checks, though this varies by bank). Some banks offer free check printing to certain account holders. You can also request a cashier's check, which is a check the bank itself writes and guarantees — this costs a few dollars but is useful when the person receiving it needs extra assurance the money is real.
Key Takeaways
- You can withdraw cash directly at a teller window, or you can ask the bank to issue a check that you write to someone else.
- Personal checks (the ones you write yourself) are free to use if you already have them printed, but ordering new boxes costs money.
- A cashier's check is written by the bank itself and costs a few dollars, but it's may provide and useful for large payments.
- Most banks let you order checks online, by phone, or in person, and delivery takes one to two weeks for standard orders.
- If you need cash when ready and don't have checks, use the ATM, a debit card, or ask a teller for a cash withdrawal.
How to get a check from your bank
If you want to use your own checks, you order them from the bank. You can do this online through your bank's website, by calling the customer service number on the back of your debit card, or by visiting a branch in person. The bank will ask you to confirm your account number and mailing address, then print checks with your name, account number, and routing number on them.
Standard check orders take one to two weeks to arrive by mail. If you need checks faster, some banks offer rush printing for an extra fee, which can cut the time to three to five business days. A few banks also let you print checks at home using special paper and software, though this is less common.
If you need a check right now and don't have any printed, ask a teller about a cashier's check. The bank writes this check itself, signs it, and guarantees the money is there. It costs $5 to $15 depending on the bank, but you get it the same day.
When to use a check instead of other payment methods
Checks are useful when you need a paper record of payment, when the person you're paying doesn't have a bank account, or when they prefer checks over electronic transfers. Many landlords, utility companies, and small businesses still accept checks. Checks are also safer than cash if you're mailing money, because the check has your account number on it and can only be deposited into the account it's written to.
However, checks take time to clear — the money doesn't leave your account when ready. It usually takes three to five business days for the check to reach the other person, be deposited, and clear. If you need the money to move faster, a bank transfer or debit card payment is quicker. If you need to pay someone in person right now, cash from the ATM or a teller is your fastest option.
What information you need to write a check
When you write a check, you fill in several blanks. At the top right, you write the date. On the line that says "Pay to the order of," you write the name of the person or business receiving the money. On the line with the dollar sign, you write the amount in numbers (like $150.00). On the line below that, you write the amount in words (like "One hundred fifty dollars"). At the bottom, you sign your name — the signature must match the name on your account.
In the bottom left corner, there's a memo line where you can write what the check is for (like "rent" or "electric bill"). This is optional but helpful for keeping track. Never leave any blank spaces on the check, because someone could fill them in after you've signed it. If you make a mistake, write "VOID" across the check and start over on a new one.
Alternatives if you don't want to use checks
If you need cash right now, the fastest way is the ATM. Most ATMs let you withdraw up to $300 to $500 per day, depending on your bank and account type. If you need more, visit a teller during business hours and ask for a cash withdrawal — there's usually no limit, though the bank may ask why you need a large amount.
If you want to send money to someone without using checks, you can use a bank transfer (also called an ACH transfer or wire transfer), which moves money directly from your account to theirs. This is faster than a check and works if they have a bank account. You can also use a debit card to pay bills online or in person, or use a payment app like Venmo or PayPal if the person you're paying uses one.
What happens after you write a check
Once you give the check to someone, they can deposit it into their bank account or cash it at a bank. The bank that receives it sends it to your bank for clearing, which usually takes three to five business days. During that time, the money is still in your account, but it's on hold. Once clearing is complete, the money moves out of your account and into theirs.
You should keep track of the checks you write in a check register (a small booklet that comes with your checks, or a note in your phone) so you know how much money you've committed. If you write a check for more money than you have in your account, the check will bounce — the bank will refuse to pay it, and you'll be charged a fee (usually $25 to $35). The person you wrote the check to will also be notified that it bounced.
Ordering checks and managing your supply
Most people order checks once or twice a year. A box of 25 checks costs $10 to $30 depending on the bank and the design. Some banks include free check printing for certain account types, so ask your bank what you're may have access to to. You can also order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which are sometimes cheaper than the bank, though you'll need to provide your account and routing number.
Keep your checks in a safe place and don't leave them lying around. If your checks are lost or stolen, contact your bank right away. You can also ask the bank to stop payment on a specific check if you've written it but want to cancel it — this costs a few dollars and takes a few days to process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a check from the bank if I don't have checks printed yet?
Yes. Ask a teller for a cashier's check, which the bank writes and guarantees. It costs $5 to $15 and you get it the same day. If you want to use your own checks, you'll need to order them first, which takes one to two weeks.
What's the difference between a personal check and a cashier's check?
A personal check is one you write yourself using your printed checks. A cashier's check is written by the bank itself and may provide by the bank, so the person receiving it knows the money is definitely there. Cashier's checks cost more but are safer for large payments.
How long does it take for a check to clear?
Most checks take three to five business days to clear after they're deposited. The money stays in your account until clearing is complete. Some banks clear checks faster, and some slower, depending on the banks involved.
What do I do if I write a check for the wrong amount?
Write "VOID" across the entire check and don't give it to anyone. Tear it up or keep it with your records. Write a new check with the correct amount. Never cross out or change an amount on a check — it won't be accepted.
Can I stop payment on a check I already wrote?
Yes, but only if the check hasn't been deposited yet. Call your bank and ask them to put a stop payment on it. This costs a few dollars and takes a few days. You'll need to give the bank the check number, amount, and who it was written to.