Getting a checkbook is usually a phone call or a few clicks online

Once you have an active checking account, you can order checks through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. Most banks let you order directly without visiting a branch. The process takes a few minutes, and your checks arrive in the mail within one to two weeks. Some banks charge a small fee per box of checks — usually between $10 and $25 — though a few offer the first box free.

You do not need to do anything special to be "ready" for checks. If your account is open and in good standing, you can order them right away. The bank already has your name, address, and account number on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let you order checks online, through their app, or by phone without visiting a branch.
  • Checks typically arrive within one to two weeks of ordering.
  • Banks usually charge between $10 and $25 per box of checks, though some offer the first box at no cost.
  • You can start using checks as soon as they arrive — no set up or registration step is needed.
  • If you lose checks or run out, reordering follows the same process and takes the same amount of time.

Ordering checks online or through your bank's app

Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a section labeled "Checks," "Order Checks," or "Account Services." The exact name varies by bank. Click that option and you will see a form asking for the style and quantity of checks you want.

You will choose how many boxes to order — typically 25, 50, or 100 checks per box — and whether you want standard checks or checks with extra features like duplicate copies. You can also select the color and design, though plain blue or black checks are the most common and usually the cheapest. The bank prints your name, address, and account number on the checks automatically.

After you confirm your choices and pay any fee, the order is placed. You will receive a confirmation email with an order number. Write down or save this number in case you need to check on your order status later.

Ordering checks by phone

Call your bank's customer service number — it is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the bank's website. Tell the representative you want to order checks. They will ask for your account number and verify your identity by asking security questions or requesting information like your Social Security number or date of birth.

Once verified, the representative will walk you through the same choices: quantity, style, color, and any special features. They will tell you the fee and confirm your mailing address. The order is placed over the phone, and you will receive a confirmation number. Ask the representative to email or mail you a confirmation so you have it in writing.

What happens after you order

Your bank sends the order to a check printer, which is usually a separate company that specializes in printing checks for banks. The printer produces your checks with your name, address, and account number, then mails them to the address on file with your bank.

Standard delivery takes one to two weeks from the time you place the order. Some banks offer expedited printing for an extra fee — usually $15 to $30 more — if you need checks faster. A few banks can print checks in-branch on the same day, though this is less common and usually costs more.

You do not need to do anything when the checks arrive. Open the box, verify that your name and account number are printed correctly, and start using them. There is no set up step or registration required.

Using your checks for the first time

A check is a written instruction to your bank to pay money from your account to the person or business whose name you write on it. When you write a check, you fill in the date, the name of the person or business receiving the money, the dollar amount in numbers and words, and your signature. The recipient then deposits or cashes the check at their bank.

Keep your checks in a safe place — they are as good as cash to anyone who has them. Do not leave them in your car or in an easily accessible drawer. When you write a check, write clearly so the amount cannot be changed. Keep a record of each check you write — either in the check register that comes with your checkbook or in a notebook — so you remember what the money was for and can track your balance.

If you make a mistake while writing a check, do not cross it out or use correction fluid. Write "VOID" across the front in large letters and keep it with your records. Then write a new check.

Reordering checks and what to do if they do not arrive

When you are running low on checks, order more using the same method — online, through the app, or by phone. You can order new checks before you run out completely; there is no limit to how many boxes you can have at once.

If your checks do not arrive within the timeframe your bank quoted, contact customer service with your order number. They can check the status with the printer and tell you when to expect delivery. If checks are lost in the mail, the bank can usually reprint and resend them at no extra charge, though this may take another week or two.

If you notice that your checks have arrived but your name or account number is printed incorrectly, contact your bank when ready. Do not use those checks. The bank will reprint the correct ones and send them to you.

Checks cost money — consider whether you need them

Before you order, think about whether you actually need checks. Many people use them rarely or not at all. If you pay most bills online through your bank's bill pay feature, send money through a payment app, or use a debit card, you may not need checks at all.

Checks are useful for paying rent, paying contractors or service providers who do not take cards, or sending money to people who do not have bank accounts. They are also a record — the cancelled check proves you paid. But for everyday purchases and most bills, faster and cheaper methods exist.

If you do decide to order, buy only what you need. A single box of 25 checks might last you a year or more if you use them sparingly. There is no reason to stock up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks before my account is fully open?

No. Your account must be active and in good standing before you can order checks. If you just opened the account, wait until you receive confirmation that it is ready to use — usually the same day or the next business day.

What if I want my checks to look different — like with a logo or custom design?

Most banks offer a few design options through their standard ordering system. If you want something more custom, you can order checks from a third-party printer like Deluxe or Current, though you will need to provide your account number and routing number yourself. These printers are not affiliated with your bank, so verify the information carefully before ordering.

Do I have to pay for the first box of checks?

It depends on your bank. Some banks include the first box free with a new checking account, while others charge a fee for every box. Check your account agreement or call customer service to find out what your bank charges.

What if I lose my checkbook or someone steals it?

Contact your bank when ready and tell them the checks are missing. The bank can flag your account so that if someone tries to cash a stolen check, it will be rejected. You will need to order a new box of checks. If a stolen check is cashed before you report it, your bank's fraud protection usually covers the loss, but report it right away to make sure.

Can I order checks from somewhere other than my bank?

Yes, but it is more complicated. Third-party check printers can print checks with your account information, but you have to provide your routing number and account number yourself, and you have to make sure they are correct. Ordering through your bank is simpler because the bank fills in this information for you. If you use a third-party printer, double-check everything before you use the checks.