Your bank is usually the fastest and safest place to order checks

Most people order checks directly from their bank — either through their online banking portal, by phone, or in person at a branch. Your bank already has your account number and routing number on file, so they can print checks that work when ready. This is the simplest route because the checks arrive pre-printed with your bank's routing number and your account number, and your bank guarantees they will work.

You can also order checks from third-party check printers, which are companies that specialize in printing checks for banks. These printers are often cheaper than ordering through your bank, but they take longer to arrive and require you to provide your account information yourself. Both routes are legitimate — your bank does not care which printer produced the checks, as long as the routing number and account number are correct.

Key Takeaways

  • Ordering through your bank's website or by calling their customer service number is the fastest option and usually takes five to ten business days.
  • Third-party check printers cost less per check but take longer to deliver and require you to enter your account details manually.
  • Never order checks from an unknown website or seller — only use your bank or established check printing companies.
  • You will need your routing number and account number to place an order, both of which appear on the bottom left of any check you already have.

Ordering checks through your bank's website or app

Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Order Checks," "Check Services," or "Supplies." Most banks place this in the account settings or services menu. You will usually see options for check style, quantity, and delivery speed. Select how many checks you want (boxes typically come in quantities of 25, 50, or 100 checks) and choose standard delivery or expedited delivery if your bank offers it.

The cost varies by bank. Some banks charge a flat fee per box, while others charge per check. Expedited delivery costs more but usually arrives in three to five business days instead of five to ten. After you place the order, your bank will send a confirmation email with a tracking number so you can monitor delivery.

Ordering checks by phone

Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you want to order checks. They will confirm your account information, ask how many checks you want, and discuss pricing and delivery options. Some banks charge a small fee to process a phone order, while others do not.

Phone ordering is useful if you are not comfortable with online banking or if you want to ask questions about check styles or delivery times before you commit. The representative can also tell you whether your bank is currently running any promotions on check orders.

Ordering checks in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of your bank and ask to speak with someone about ordering checks. Bring your debit card or account number so they can look up your account. They will show you sample check styles, discuss pricing, and process the order on the spot. This is the slowest option for receiving your checks, but it is useful if you prefer face-to-face service or want to see what the checks will look like before they are printed.

Some branches keep sample check books on hand so you can see the actual product. If your branch does not have samples, the representative can show you pictures or descriptions of available styles.

Using third-party check printers

Companies like Costco, Sam's Club, Walmart, Checks Unlimited, and Deluxe print checks for customers who do not want to order through their bank. These printers are often 30 to 50 percent cheaper per check than bank orders. However, they require you to enter your routing number and account number yourself, which means you must have this information before you order.

Find your routing number and account number on the bottom of any check you already have, or log into your online banking and look for account details. Enter this information carefully — a mistake will result in checks that do not work. Third-party printers typically take 10 to 15 business days to deliver, though some offer expedited options for an extra fee.

Third-party printers are safe to use as long as they are established companies. Your bank does not care who prints your checks — the bank only cares that the routing number and account number are correct. Avoid ordering from unknown websites or sellers, as they may print your account information incorrectly or not deliver at all.

What information you need before you order

You will need your routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and your account number (a code that identifies your specific account). 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 will show these numbers.

You will also need to decide on a check style. Most banks and printers offer basic styles at no extra cost, and fancier designs (with logos, colors, or images) for a higher price. For most people, the basic style is fine and costs less.

How long checks take to arrive

Standard delivery through your bank usually takes five to ten business days. Expedited delivery, if your bank offers it, takes three to five business days and costs extra. Third-party printers typically take 10 to 15 business days for standard delivery.

If you need checks urgently, ask your bank whether they can issue a temporary check or provide a starter set of checks while you wait for your order. Some banks will print a few checks for you on the spot or mail you a small set within a few days at no charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order checks if I just opened my account?

Yes. As soon as your account is open and active, you can order checks through your bank's website, by phone, or in person. Your bank will not let you order until the account is fully set up, but this usually happens the same day you open it.

What if I make a mistake entering my account number when ordering from a third-party printer?

Contact the printer when ready and explain the error. Most printers will cancel the order and issue a refund if you catch the mistake before printing begins. If the checks have already been printed with the wrong number, you will need to place a new order with the correct information.

Do I have to order checks through my bank, or can I always use a third-party printer?

You can use either. Your bank does not require you to order through them. Third-party printers are a legitimate option as long as they are established companies and you enter your account information correctly.

Will my checks work if they are printed by a third-party company instead of my bank?

Yes, as long as the routing number and account number are correct. Your bank does not care who printed the checks — they only care that the numbers match your account.

How much do checks usually cost?

Bank orders typically cost between $15 and $40 per box of 25 checks, depending on the bank and check style. Third-party printers usually cost $5 to $15 per box. Expedited delivery adds $5 to $15 to the total cost.