Getting checks from your bank is straightforward: you order them through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service, and they arrive at your address in 7 to 14 days.
Most banks let you order checks directly without visiting a branch. The process takes a few minutes and costs between $10 and $30 per box of 25 checks, depending on your bank and the style you choose. Some banks include free checks with certain account types, so check your account benefits first.
You can also order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Current, which are often cheaper than bank-ordered checks and arrive faster. These printers use the routing and account information from your bank to print checks that work exactly like bank-printed ones.
Key Takeaways
- You can order checks through your bank's website, app, or phone without visiting a branch, and they typically arrive within 7 to 14 business days.
- Bank-ordered checks cost $10 to $30 per box, but some account types include free checks as part of their benefits.
- Third-party check printers like Deluxe or Current are often cheaper and faster than ordering through your bank.
- You need your routing number and account number to order checks, both of which appear on your existing checks or statements.
- Checks ordered from any legitimate source work the same way — the printer does not matter as long as your account information is correct.
Ordering checks through your bank's website or app
Log into your online banking account and look for a "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks" link, usually under Account Services or Settings. You will select the number of boxes you want, choose a check design (basic, themed, or personalized), and confirm your mailing address. The bank will charge your account when ready or at the time of shipment, depending on the bank's policy.
If you cannot find the option online, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card. A representative can walk you through the order over the phone and answer questions about cost and delivery time. Some banks still require you to order checks this way if you have an older account type.
Ordering checks by phone or in person
Call the customer service number on your bank statement or debit card and ask to order checks. Have your account number ready. The representative will confirm your mailing address, discuss design options, and process the order. This method takes the same 7 to 14 days as online ordering.
You can also walk into any branch of your bank and order checks at the teller window. This is useful if you need checks urgently and want to confirm the order in person, though the delivery time remains the same. Some branches offer expedited shipping for an extra fee if you need checks faster.
Using third-party check printers
Companies like Deluxe, Current, and Costco Checks print checks using your bank's routing and account numbers. You order online, provide your account information, and the checks arrive in 5 to 7 business days — faster than most banks. Prices are typically $5 to $15 per box, roughly half what banks charge.
Third-party checks are legal and work identically to bank-printed checks. Your bank does not care where your checks come from as long as the routing and account numbers are correct. The main trade-off is that you lose any design customization your bank might offer, though third-party printers have their own design options.
What information you need to order checks
You need your routing number and account number. Both appear on the bottom left of any existing check you have. If you do not have a check, log into online banking and look for your account details, or call your bank. Your routing number is the same for all customers at your bank; your account number is unique to you.
You will also need to confirm your mailing address. The bank will send checks to the address on file with your account unless you specify a different one. If you have moved recently, update your address in online banking before ordering to avoid checks arriving at an old address.
Cost and timing for different ordering methods
| Ordering Method | Cost per Box | Delivery Time | Design Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank website or app | $10–$30 | 7–14 business days | Multiple designs, personalization available |
| Bank phone or branch | $10–$30 | 7–14 business days | Multiple designs, personalization available |
| Third-party printer (Deluxe, Current) | $5–$15 | 5–7 business days | Standard designs, limited personalization |
| Costco Checks | $8–$12 | 5–7 business days | Standard designs |
Banks sometimes offer free checks with premium account types or as a promotional offer. Check your account benefits in online banking or ask customer service whether your account includes free checks. If it does, you can order one free box per year or per statement cycle, depending on the promotion.
What to do if you need checks urgently
If you need checks within a few days, ask your bank whether they offer expedited shipping. Some banks can print and ship checks overnight or within 2 to 3 business days for an extra fee of $15 to $25. This is faster than standard ordering but more expensive.
If expedited shipping is not available or too costly, consider ordering from a third-party printer instead. Deluxe and Current typically deliver in 5 to 7 business days, which is faster than most banks. You can also ask your bank to issue you a temporary check or cashier's check while you wait for your printed checks to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order checks online if I just opened my account?
Yes. Most banks let you order checks as soon as your account is active, even if it is only a few hours old. If the online option does not appear, call customer service — they can process the order over the phone.
Do I have to order checks from my bank, or can I use any printer?
You can use any legitimate check printer as long as they have your correct routing and account numbers. Third-party printers are legal and work the same way as bank-printed checks. Your bank does not restrict where you order from.
What if my address changes after I order checks?
If you order checks and then move, contact your bank when ready to update your address. If the checks have not shipped yet, the bank can reroute them to your new address. If they have already shipped, you may need to pick them up at your old address or have them forwarded.
Are personalized checks worth the extra cost?
Personalized checks cost $5 to $10 more per box than standard checks and take longer to arrive. They work identically to plain checks. The choice depends on whether you value the appearance — they are purely optional.
Can I reorder the same checks without placing a new order?
Most banks let you reorder the same design and quantity through a quick reorder option in online banking. This skips the design step and speeds up the process. Check your bank's website or call customer service to see if this option is available.