Yes, you can order checks from your bank, and most banks will print them for you

When you open a checking account, the bank does not automatically send you checks. You have to order them separately, either when you open the account or anytime after. Most banks let you order checks through their website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Some banks include a small number of free checks with a new account, but many charge a fee — usually between $10 and $25 per box of 100 checks.

The process is straightforward: you tell the bank how many checks you want, confirm your account number and routing number are correct on them, and the bank prints and mails them to you. Delivery usually takes one to two weeks. If you need checks faster, some banks offer rush printing for an extra fee, or you can use a third-party printer like Deluxe or Costco, which are often cheaper than the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • You must order checks separately from opening a checking account — they do not come automatically.
  • Most banks charge $10 to $25 per box of 100 checks, though some offer a limited number free with new accounts.
  • Standard delivery takes one to two weeks; rush options exist but cost more.
  • Third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco often charge less than banks for the same checks.
  • You need your account number and routing number correct before ordering to avoid problems when you write checks.

How to order checks from your bank

The easiest way is through your bank's website. Log into your online banking account, look for a section called "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks," and follow the prompts. You will choose how many boxes you want, confirm the spelling of your name and address, and review that your account number and routing number are printed correctly. Then you pay the fee (if there is one) and submit the order.

If you do not use online banking or prefer to talk to someone, call your bank's customer service number or visit a branch in person. A staff member can walk you through the order over the phone or help you at the desk. Some banks also let you order checks by mail, though this is slower.

What information the bank needs to print your checks

Your bank will need your name exactly as it appears on the account, your mailing address, your account number, and your routing number. The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch — your bank can tell you this number, or you can find it on any existing check, your bank statement, or your online banking portal.

Double-check that all this information is correct before you confirm the order. If your name or address is wrong on the checks, they may not work properly, or you may have trouble depositing them if you receive a check from someone else. If you spot an error after ordering, contact your bank right away — they may be able to cancel and reprint before the checks ship.

How much checks cost and where to save money

Bank fees for checks vary widely. Some banks charge nothing for the first box, others charge $15 to $25 per box of 100. A few banks include free checks as part of certain account types, so ask when you open your account or call to check.

If cost is a concern, third-party check printers are often cheaper. Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart all print checks, and prices can be 30 to 50 percent lower than what banks charge. These printers use the same routing and account numbers, so the checks work exactly the same way. The trade-off is that delivery may take longer, and you lose the convenience of ordering through your bank's website.

How long it takes to receive your checks

Standard delivery from a bank usually takes 7 to 14 days after you place the order. Some banks offer expedited shipping for an extra fee — typically $10 to $20 — which can cut the time to 3 to 5 business days. Third-party printers vary; some deliver in 5 to 7 business days, while others take two weeks or longer.

If you need checks urgently, ask your bank if they can issue a temporary debit card or if they offer a way to transfer money electronically instead. Many people who are new to banking do not realize they have other payment options besides checks, and these may be faster and easier for your situation.

What to do if you lose or damage your checks

If a box of checks arrives damaged or you lose some checks before using them, contact your bank. They can reorder a replacement box, though you may have to pay the fee again depending on the bank's policy. If you lose checks after they have been mailed but before you receive them, tell your bank when ready so they can flag your account.

If you have already used some checks from a box and lose the rest, you do not need to do anything — just order a new box when you are ready. There is no security risk from a lost unused check as long as no one has your account number and routing number written down. These numbers are printed on every check you write, so treat them the way you would treat any financial information.

Alternatives to paper checks

Not everyone needs checks. Many people pay bills online through their bank's bill pay feature, transfer money electronically using their account number and routing number, or use a debit card instead. If you are new to banking and are not sure whether you need checks, think about who you actually need to pay: if it is mostly bills, your bank's online bill pay is usually free and faster. If you need to pay a landlord, a contractor, or someone else who does not take electronic payments, then checks make sense.

Some banks also offer digital check images through their mobile app, which let you photograph a check you received and deposit it without going to a branch. This is useful if you receive checks but do not write many yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start using my checking account before my checks arrive?

Yes. You can use your debit card, transfer money electronically, or use your bank's bill pay feature right away. You do not have to wait for checks to arrive to start using the account. Many people never order checks at all.

What if I make a mistake on a check I already wrote?

Write "VOID" across the front of the check in large letters and keep it. Do not send it. Write a new check instead. Voided checks do not hurt anything — they just show that check number was cancelled. Your bank will not process it.

Can someone else order checks on my account?

Only if they have access to your online banking login or are listed as an authorized user on the account. If you share an account with a spouse or family member, either of you can order checks. If someone else orders checks without your permission, contact your bank when ready.

Do I need to tell my bank before I start using my checks?

No. Once your checks arrive, you can use them right away. Your bank already knows the checks are coming because they printed them. There is nothing else you need to do.

What if the bank printed my checks with the wrong account number?

Contact your bank when ready and do not use those checks. Ask them to cancel the order and reprint with the correct number. This is rare, but it is important to catch it before you write any checks, because a check with the wrong account number will not deposit properly.