Bank checks typically cost between $0.15 and $1.50 per check, depending on your bank, the check style you choose, and whether you order them directly from your bank or a third-party printer

Most banks charge a flat fee per box of checks rather than per individual check. A standard box contains 25 checks, so if your bank charges $0.50 per check, you'll pay around $12.50 for a box. Some banks include a certain number of free checks per year as part of your account, while others charge for every box you order. The price you pay depends on your account type, your bank's pricing structure, and how many boxes you order at once.

You have two main ways to buy checks: order them through your bank, or order them from a third-party printer like Costco, Walmart, or online check printers. Third-party printers are almost always cheaper—sometimes by half—but they require you to provide your account information and routing number yourself, and delivery takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank checks cost between $0.15 and $1.50 per check when ordered through your bank, with most boxes of 25 costing $5 to $40.
  • Many banks offer a limited number of free checks per year as part of standard checking accounts, so ask before you pay.
  • Third-party printers like Costco and online check companies charge 30 to 50 percent less than banks for the same checks.
  • Specialty checks—with images, larger fonts, or security features—cost more than standard checks, sometimes double or triple the base price.
  • Ordering in bulk (multiple boxes at once) usually lowers the per-check cost, whether you order from your bank or a third party.

What affects the price you pay

Your bank's pricing depends on your account tier. Premium checking accounts often include free checks, while basic accounts charge per box. Some banks waive check fees entirely if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online account to see what your specific account includes.

The style of check also matters. Standard checks with your name and address printed on them cost the least. Checks with a company logo, custom colors, larger fonts for vision accessibility, or extra security features (like microprinting or chemical-reactive paper) cost more. A box of specialty checks can run $30 to $50, while standard checks might be $8 to $15.

How many boxes you order at once affects the per-check price. Ordering 5 boxes at a time is usually cheaper per check than ordering 1 box. Some banks and printers offer volume discounts that kick in at 3 or 4 boxes.

Ordering through your bank versus third-party printers

When you order through your bank, the bank handles everything—they already have your account details, routing number, and signature on file. Delivery is usually 7 to 10 business days. The convenience costs money: bank check prices are typically the highest option.

Third-party printers like Costco, Walmart, Vistaprint, and Deluxe offer the same checks for 30 to 50 percent less. You provide your account information and routing number yourself (you can find both on a check you already have or in your online banking portal). Delivery takes 10 to 14 business days, sometimes longer. These printers are legitimate and widely used; the checks work exactly the same as bank-ordered checks.

Online-only check printers like Checks Unlimited and Carousel Checks often have the lowest prices, especially if you order multiple boxes. They also tend to have more design options. Delivery is typically 10 to 15 business days.

When you might not pay anything

Many checking accounts include a set number of free checks per year—often 25 to 50 checks, which equals one or two boxes. Premium accounts sometimes include unlimited free checks. Before you pay for a box, log into your account or call your bank to confirm whether your account includes free checks.

If you rarely use checks, you may not need to order them at all. Many banks will print a few free checks on the spot at a branch if you ask, though this is not may provide. Some accounts let you order a single box at a reduced rate instead of committing to multiple boxes.

How to find your bank's check prices

The fastest way is to log into your online banking portal and look for "order checks" or "check supplies." Most banks show the price and delivery time before you confirm the order. If you can't find it online, call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card) and ask what checks cost for your specific account type.

When comparing prices between your bank and third-party printers, factor in delivery time. If you need checks in 3 days, your bank may be the only option. If you can wait 10 to 14 days, a third-party printer will save you money.

Specialty checks and security features

If you need checks with extra security features—like microprinting, chemical-reactive paper that changes color if someone tries to alter the check, or a watermark—expect to pay more. These features make checks harder to counterfeit and are sometimes required by certain organizations or industries. A box of security-enhanced checks can cost $25 to $50, compared to $8 to $15 for standard checks.

Accessibility features like larger fonts or high-contrast printing also add cost, typically $5 to $10 per box. If you need these features, ask your bank whether they offer them at no extra charge as a reasonable accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to order checks through my bank?

No. You can order from any legitimate check printer. Third-party printers are cheaper and the checks work identically. You just need to provide your account number and routing number, which you can find on a check you already have or in your online banking portal.

Can I print my own checks?

Technically yes, but most banks and businesses won't accept them. Checks must meet specific security and formatting standards, and banks verify that checks come from an authorized printer. Printing your own checks is also illegal if done to defraud someone. Use a legitimate check printer instead.

What if my bank charges for checks but I don't use them?

Ask your bank whether your account includes free checks as part of the package. If it doesn't and you rarely write checks, you may not need to order them at all. Many banks will print a few checks at a branch for free in an emergency, though policies vary.

How long do checks take to arrive?

Bank-ordered checks usually arrive in 7 to 10 business days. Third-party printers typically take 10 to 14 business days. Expedited shipping is sometimes available for an extra fee, usually $10 to $20. If you need checks urgently, ask your bank whether they can print a few at a branch.

Are cheaper checks from third-party printers actually safe?

Yes. Third-party check printers are regulated and use the same security standards as banks. Checks from Costco, Walmart, Vistaprint, and other major printers are accepted everywhere bank-ordered checks are accepted. The only difference is price and delivery time.