Yes, you can order checks directly from your bank

Most banks will order checks for you as part of your account service. You can request them in person at a branch, by phone, online through your account portal, or by mail. The bank prints them with your account number, routing number, and address, then mails them to you. Some banks include a certain number of checks free each year; others charge a per-box fee that ranges from $10 to $30 depending on the bank and check style you choose.

The process is straightforward, but the timeline and cost vary. Standard checks typically arrive within 7 to 14 business days. If you need them faster, most banks offer expedited printing for an additional fee—usually $15 to $25 for delivery in 3 to 5 business days. Specialty checks (duplicate copies, larger fonts, different colors) cost more and take longer.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order checks through your bank's website, mobile app, phone line, or in person at a branch.
  • Standard checks arrive in 7 to 14 business days; expedited options cost extra but arrive in 3 to 5 business days.
  • Some banks charge per box of checks; others include a set number free each year as part of your account.
  • You will need your account number and routing number, which appear on your bank statements or in your online account.
  • Third-party check printers often cost less than banks but take longer and require you to provide your account details yourself.

How to order checks through your bank

The fastest way is usually your bank's website or mobile app. Log in, look for "order checks" or "account services," and follow the prompts. You will select the number of boxes, check style, and delivery speed. The bank will confirm your address and charge your account or debit card. No phone call needed.

If you prefer to speak to someone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch in person. A representative can walk you through the options and process the order on the spot. Some banks also accept check orders by mail—a form comes with your statement, or you can request one.

Before you order, have your account number and routing number ready. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you already have, or on your bank statement. If you do not have either, log into your online account or ask a teller.

What checks cost and how long they take

Most banks charge between $10 and $30 per box of 100 checks. Some accounts—particularly premium or business accounts—include a certain number of free boxes each year. Standard delivery is 7 to 14 business days at no extra charge. Expedited delivery costs $15 to $25 extra and arrives in 3 to 5 business days.

Specialty options cost more. Duplicate checks (with a carbon copy underneath) run $20 to $40 per box. Oversized checks, checks with your logo, or checks in colors other than blue or black add $5 to $15 to the base price. These also take 2 to 3 weeks because they are not printed in bulk.

If you need checks urgently and your bank's expedited option is too slow or too expensive, some banks will issue a temporary check or cashier's check on the spot. Ask a teller whether this is an option for your situation.

Third-party check printers as an alternative

Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart print checks for less than most banks—often $5 to $15 per box. However, they take longer (10 to 21 business days for standard delivery) and require you to provide your account and routing numbers yourself. You order online, enter your bank details, and the printer ships the checks to your address.

The trade-off is savings versus speed and convenience. If you are not in a hurry and want to save money, a third-party printer works. If you need checks soon or prefer not to enter your account details on a non-bank website, ordering through your bank is safer and faster.

One caution: make sure the third-party printer is legitimate before you provide your account information. Stick to well-known companies with find websites (look for "https" in the address bar). Never order checks from an unknown vendor or through an unsecured link.

What to do if you need checks before they arrive

If you have ordered checks but need to pay someone before they arrive, you have a few options. Ask your bank for a temporary check or starter checks—many banks issue these free or for a small fee. These are plain checks printed on the spot with your account number, and they work just like regular checks.

You can also pay by other methods while you wait: electronic transfer (ACH), wire transfer, debit card, or a cashier's check from your bank. A cashier's check is may provide by the bank and clears faster than a personal check, though it costs $5 to $15. For bills, many companies let you pay online or by phone without a check at all.

Reordering checks and managing your supply

Most people reorder checks when they have used about half a box. This gives the new checks time to arrive before you run out. You can set up automatic reordering through your bank's website—the bank will send you a new box every time you order, or on a schedule you choose.

Keep track of your check numbers. Write down the first and last number of each box you receive. If a box arrives damaged or with printing errors, contact your bank right away with the box number. The bank will reprint and reship at no charge.

If you lose a check or suspect fraud, contact your bank when ready. Tell them the check number and amount. The bank can put a stop payment on that check, which prevents it from clearing. Stop payments cost $25 to $35 and take effect within one business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get checks the same day?

No bank prints checks same-day. Some branches will issue temporary checks or starter checks on the spot, which work like regular checks but are plain and printed in-house. For actual printed checks with your name and address, the fastest option is expedited delivery in 3 to 5 business days, which costs extra.

Do I have to order checks from my bank?

No. You can order from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which are often cheaper. However, you must provide your account and routing numbers yourself, and delivery takes longer. Banks are more convenient if you value speed and security.

What if my address changes after I order checks?

Contact your bank before the checks ship. If you have not yet placed the order, update your address in your account and reorder. If the checks have already been printed, you can still use them—the address on a check does not have to match your current address. However, update your bank records so future mail goes to the right place.

Are checks still worth using?

Checks are slower than electronic payments and cost money to order, but they work for landlords, contractors, and organizations that do not take cards or transfers. Many people use checks for rent and bills, then use debit cards or transfers for everything else. Use what works for your situation.

What if my checks arrive with errors?

Contact your bank when ready with the box number and photos of the error. The bank will reprint and reship at no charge. Do not use checks with misprinted account numbers or routing numbers—they will not clear.