What a bank check is and how to request one

A bank check is a piece of paper your bank prints with your account information, routing number, and a blank space for you to write in the amount and payee. When you sign it and give it to someone, they can deposit it into their account or cash it. You request checks from your bank—either in person, by phone, by mail, or through your online banking portal—and the bank prints and mails them to you, usually within 5 to 10 business days.

Most banks include a certain number of checks free with a checking account, though the amount varies. If you need more than what comes with your account, you pay for additional boxes. Some banks charge $10 to $20 per box of 25 checks; others charge less. The cost depends on the bank and the style of check you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request checks through your bank's website, mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch, and they arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days.
  • Most checking accounts include a free initial supply of checks, but additional boxes cost between $10 and $20 depending on your bank.
  • If you need checks urgently, some banks offer expedited printing for an extra fee, or you can order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco at lower cost.
  • You will need your account number and routing number to place an order, both of which appear on your existing checks or in your online banking account.
  • Checks take longer to clear than digital transfers, so use them only when the payee cannot accept other payment methods.

How to order checks through your bank

The fastest way to order checks is through your bank's website or mobile app. Log in, look for a "Checks" or "Order Supplies" section, and follow the prompts. You will choose the quantity, design (if options are available), and delivery address. Most banks show you the cost upfront and let you review your account number and routing number before you confirm the order.

If you prefer to order by phone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Have your account number ready. The representative will confirm your mailing address and process the order over the phone. Some banks also allow you to order checks in person at a branch, though this is less common now.

Once you place the order, your bank will mail the checks to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 5 to 10 business days. If you need them faster, ask whether your bank offers expedited printing—many charge an extra $15 to $30 to print and mail checks within 2 to 3 business days.

Third-party check printers as a lower-cost option

If your bank's check prices are high or you want more design options, you can order checks from third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart. These printers work with your bank's routing number and your account number to print checks that are identical to bank-printed ones—the payee will not know the difference. Third-party checks often cost 30 to 50 percent less than bank checks.

To order from a third-party printer, you will need your routing number and account number. You can find both on the bottom left of any existing check, or log into your online banking account and look for account details. Enter this information on the printer's website, choose your design and quantity, and pay. Delivery typically takes 7 to 14 business days, though expedited options are available.

The main drawback is that third-party checks take slightly longer to clear—sometimes 1 to 2 extra business days—because the payee's bank has to verify the routing number. For routine bills and payments, this delay rarely matters. For time-sensitive payments, use your bank's checks or a digital transfer instead.

What information you need to order checks

Before you place an order, gather your account number and routing number. Your account number is unique to you; your routing number identifies your bank. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you already have. If you do not have a check, log into your online banking account and look for account details or statements—both numbers are listed there.

You will also need to confirm the mailing address where the checks should be sent. Banks mail checks to the address on file with your account, so if you have moved recently, update your address in your online banking portal before you order. If you order checks and your address is wrong, you will have to wait for them to arrive at the old address and then request a reorder.

When checks arrive and how to use them

When your checks arrive, inspect them for errors before you use them. Verify that your name, address, account number, and routing number are all correct. If anything is wrong, contact your bank or the printer when ready and request a replacement box at no charge.

Once you start using checks, keep them in a safe place and record each check number and amount in a check register or your online banking account. This helps you track what you have spent and prevents overdrafts. Many banks show check images in your online account after they clear, so you can see who cashed them and when.

Remember that checks take longer to clear than digital transfers—typically 3 to 5 business days, sometimes longer. Do not write a check for money you do not have yet, even if you expect a deposit soon. If a check bounces because your account does not have enough funds, your bank will charge you an overdraft fee, usually $25 to $35.

Alternatives to paper checks

If you rarely use checks, consider whether a digital payment method would work instead. Most bills can be paid through your bank's bill pay service, which is free and faster than mailing a check. You can also send money to individuals through Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, or your bank's peer-to-peer transfer service. These methods are when ready or near-when ready and cost nothing.

If someone insists on a check, ask whether they can accept a digital transfer or a photo of a check instead. Many businesses now accept mobile check deposits, where you photograph the front and back of a check and upload it through their app. This works only if you have already written and signed the check, but it eliminates the need to mail it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get checks after I order them?

Standard delivery is 5 to 10 business days from the time you place the order. Expedited options cost extra and typically arrive within 2 to 3 business days. Third-party printers usually take 7 to 14 business days. If you need checks urgently, call your bank to ask about rush printing or visit a branch to see if they can print a temporary check on the spot.

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. Most banks allow you to order checks as soon as your account is open and funded. If you cannot order through the website, call customer service—they can place the order for you over the phone. Your first box of checks is usually free or included with your account opening.

What if I lose a check or it gets stolen?

Contact your bank when ready and report the check number. Your bank can flag it in the system so that if someone tries to cash it, the transaction may be blocked. If the check has already been cashed fraudulently, file a dispute with your bank within 60 days. Your bank will investigate and may reverse the charge if fraud is confirmed.

Do I have to use checks from my bank, or can I use any checks?

You can use checks from any printer as long as they have your correct routing number and account number. Bank-printed checks and third-party checks work identically. The only advantage to bank checks is that they arrive faster if you order through the bank's expedited service, and some people perceive them as more official, though they are not.

Why do checks take so long to clear compared to digital transfers?

Checks are physical documents that must be transported, scanned, and verified at multiple banks before the money moves. Digital transfers happen in seconds or minutes because the money moves directly between bank systems. If you need money to arrive quickly, use a digital transfer. Use checks only when the payee cannot accept other payment methods.