You can order checks directly from your bank, or from third-party check printers that your bank approves

Most banks let you order checks in two ways: through the bank itself, or through an outside printer the bank has approved. Ordering through your bank is usually the simplest route — you call, visit in person, or log into your online banking and request them. The bank prints your name, account number, and routing number on the checks, then mails them to you. This takes about one to two weeks.

You can also order from third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart. These printers are pre-approved by your bank, so the checks will work with your account. Third-party printers are often cheaper and sometimes faster. You will need your account number and routing number, which you can find on a deposit slip or by logging into your online banking.

Key Takeaways

  • Ordering checks through your bank is the most straightforward method and takes one to two weeks.
  • Third-party check printers approved by your bank cost less and may deliver faster, but you must provide your account and routing numbers yourself.
  • You can find your account and routing numbers on a deposit slip, a check you already have, or in your online banking portal.
  • Most banks charge a fee for checks, whether you order from them or from an outside printer — the cost varies by bank and printer.

Ordering checks through your bank

Call your bank's customer service number or visit a branch in person. Tell them you want to order checks. They will ask how many books you want (a book is usually 25 checks) and confirm your mailing address. Some banks let you choose designs or add a logo, though this costs more.

If your bank offers online banking, you can often order checks through your account without calling. Log in, look for a "Services" or "Account Services" section, and find the option to order checks. You will select the quantity and confirm your address. The bank will mail the checks to you, usually within one to two weeks.

Ask about the cost when you order. Banks charge different amounts — some charge per book, others per check. A few banks include a certain number of free checks per year with your account type. If you are unsure, ask whether there is a fee before you confirm the order.

Ordering checks from a third-party printer

Third-party printers like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and Sam's Club print checks that work with any bank account. You order online or by phone, provide your account number and routing number, and the printer mails the checks to you. Delivery is often faster than ordering from the bank — sometimes as little as three to five business days.

Before you order from a third-party printer, check your bank's website or call to confirm they accept checks from that printer. Nearly all banks do, but it is worth a quick confirmation. You will need your account number (on the bottom left of any check you have) and your routing number (on the bottom left, after the account number). If you do not have a check, log into your online banking to find both numbers.

Third-party printers are usually cheaper than ordering from the bank. Prices vary widely, so compare a few before you order. Some printers offer bulk discounts if you order multiple books at once.

Finding your account and routing numbers

Your account number is a unique number assigned to your specific account. Your routing number is a code that identifies your bank. Both appear on every check you have, printed at the bottom in small numbers.

If you do not have a check, you can find both numbers in your online banking portal. Log in and look for account details or account information. The numbers will be listed there. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask them to read the numbers to you over the phone.

What to expect when your checks arrive

When your checks arrive in the mail, open the package and count them to make sure you received the right quantity. Check that your name, address, account number, and routing number are printed correctly. If anything is wrong, contact the bank or printer right away — they can usually reprint and send a replacement at no charge.

Before you use the checks, sign the back of each book in the designated signature line. This is a security step that prevents someone else from using them if they are lost or stolen. Some people sign only the first few checks in each book, but signing all of them is safer.

When you might not need checks

Many people use checks less often than they used to. If you only need checks occasionally, you might not want to order a full book. Some banks let you order a smaller quantity — ask when you call. You can also use digital payment methods like bill pay through your online banking, which lets you pay bills without writing a check.

If you are new to banking and are not sure whether you need checks, ask yourself: Do I need to pay anyone who does not take cards or digital payments? Landlords, some utilities, and some service providers still prefer checks. If most of your payments are to businesses that take cards or online transfers, you may not need checks at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do checks cost?

Cost varies by bank and printer. Banks typically charge between $10 and $30 per book of 25 checks. Third-party printers often cost less — sometimes $5 to $15 per book. Some banks include free checks with certain account types. Call your bank or check the printer's website for exact pricing.

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is open and you have an account number. Some banks send a starter set of checks with your new account, so check what came in your welcome packet before you order more.

What if I made a mistake on the check order?

Contact the bank or printer when ready if you notice an error before the checks ship. If the checks have already been printed, you may be able to cancel and reorder, though some printers charge a cancellation fee. If the checks arrive with an error, most banks and printers will reprint them at no charge.

Do I need to order checks in person, or can I do it by phone or online?

You can order by phone, online, or in person — it depends on your bank. Most banks offer all three options. Online is usually fastest if your bank has that feature. Calling works if you prefer to speak with someone.

How long do checks take to arrive?

Bank-ordered checks usually take one to two weeks. Third-party printers often deliver in three to five business days, though some offer faster shipping for an extra fee. Ask when you order so you know when to expect them.