Yes, you can order a checkbook from your bank, and most banks will print one for you within a few business days

If you have an active checking account, your bank can print and send you checks. You do not need permission beyond having the account itself. The process is straightforward: you contact your bank, request checks, and they arrive by mail or you pick them up in person. Most banks charge a small fee per box of checks—usually $10 to $25 depending on the style and quantity you order—though some accounts include free checks as a benefit.

The timeline matters if you need checks urgently. Standard orders take five to ten business days. Expedited orders cost more but arrive in two to three business days. If you need checks today, you have limited options: some banks can print a temporary check at a branch, or you can use digital payment methods instead while you wait for the printed ones to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order checks directly from your bank by phone, online, or in person at any branch.
  • Standard checkbook orders arrive in five to ten business days; expedited orders cost extra but arrive faster.
  • Most banks charge $10 to $25 per box of checks, though some checking accounts include free checks.
  • If you need a check when ready, ask your bank about temporary checks or use a digital payment method instead.
  • You can also order checks from third-party printers, which are often cheaper but take longer and require your account information.

How to order checks from your bank

The easiest method is online. Log into your bank's website or mobile app, look for a section labeled "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks," and follow the prompts. You will select the quantity, style, and delivery speed. Most banks show you the cost before you confirm. Payment is deducted from your account.

If you prefer to order by phone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. A representative will ask for your account number, the number of checks you want, and your delivery address. They will confirm the cost and process the order while you wait.

You can also walk into any branch and order in person. Bring your ID and debit card. A teller can place the order when ready, and you will know the exact cost and arrival date before you leave.

What information your bank needs

Your bank already has most of what it needs to print checks: your account number, routing number, and the name on the account. When you order, confirm that the name and address on the checks match what is registered with your account. If you have moved or changed your name, update your account information first.

Some banks ask whether you want checks printed with your address on them. This is optional. Checks without an address printed on them work just as well and cost slightly less. You can write your address by hand if needed.

When you need checks faster than standard delivery

If your order is urgent, ask your bank about expedited printing. This usually costs $15 to $30 extra and cuts the delivery time to two or three business days. Some banks offer next-business-day delivery for an even higher fee, though this is rare.

If you need a check today, call your bank and ask whether they can print a temporary check at a branch. Not all banks offer this, but many do. A temporary check looks different from a regular one and has a limited validity period, but it functions the same way. You will need to go to a branch in person and bring your ID.

Another option is to use a digital payment method instead of a check. Many bills can be paid online, by phone, or through your bank's bill-pay service. If the recipient needs a physical payment, ask whether they accept a digital transfer or a debit card payment.

Ordering checks from a third-party printer instead

You are not required to order checks from your bank. Third-party check printers like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart Checks often charge less—sometimes $5 to $15 per box—and offer more design options. However, they take longer to deliver, usually ten to fifteen business days.

To order from a third-party printer, you will need your routing number and account number. You can find both on a check you already have, or ask your bank. The printer will mail the checks to you. Make sure the routing number and account number are correct before you place the order, because a mistake will make the checks unusable.

Third-party checks work exactly like bank-printed checks once they arrive. There is no difference in how they function or how they are processed.

Fees and what affects the cost

Bank fees for checks vary. A standard box of 100 checks costs $10 to $25 at most banks. Specialty options cost more: duplicate checks (with a carbon copy), checks with your photo printed on them, or checks with a custom design can add $5 to $15 to the price.

Some checking accounts include free checks as a benefit. This is more common with premium or business accounts, but some basic accounts offer it too. Check your account terms or ask your bank whether free checks are included.

Expedited delivery adds $10 to $30 depending on how fast you need them. Ordering in bulk—say, 500 checks at once instead of 100—usually lowers the per-box cost.

What to do if you lose checks or they arrive damaged

If checks are lost in the mail, contact your bank when ready. They can stop payment on those checks and reorder a new set. You will not be charged twice. The bank will flag the original order as lost and print replacements.

If checks arrive damaged or with printing errors, contact your bank or the printer right away. They will reprint and resend them at no charge. Do not use damaged checks; they may not be accepted by banks or businesses.

If you ordered checks but no longer need them because you switched banks or closed the account, you do not need to do anything. Unused checks are not a liability. If you want to be cautious, you can shred them or contact your bank to report them as unused.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get checks from my bank?

Standard orders arrive in five to ten business days. Expedited orders take two to three business days and cost extra. Some banks can print temporary checks at a branch the same day if you visit in person.

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is active. Your bank will have your account number and routing number ready. Some banks send you a starter set of checks automatically when you open the account.

What if my bank does not offer checks anymore?

Some online banks and newer financial institutions do not print checks because most customers use digital payments. If your bank does not offer checks, you can order them from a third-party printer using your routing and account numbers, or switch to a bank that does print checks.

Do I have to reorder checks every time I run out?

Yes. Checks do not renew automatically. When you are running low, place a new order. Most people order a new box every one to two years, depending on how often they write checks.

Can someone else order checks on my account?

Only if they are an authorized user on the account or have power of attorney. If you have a joint account, either account holder can usually order checks. If someone else needs to order on your behalf, contact your bank about their authorization process.