You can get checks from your bank, an online check printer, or a check-cashing service — each has different costs and timelines
A bank check is a written order that tells your bank to move money from your account to whoever you give the check to. If you need checks, your first choice is usually your own bank, because they already have your account information and can print checks tied directly to your account. You can also order from third-party printers or buy blank checks at office supply stores, though these take longer and may not work with all banks. A check-cashing service can print a single check on the spot if you need one when ready, but you pay a fee each time.
The method you choose depends on how many checks you need, how quickly you need them, and whether you want to pay per check or buy in bulk. Most people who keep a checking account will order from their bank at least once.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank can order checks for you in person, by phone, online, or through their mobile app, and will link them directly to your account.
- Checks ordered from your bank usually arrive in five to ten business days and cost between $10 and $30 per box of 25 or 50.
- Online check printers like Deluxe or Costco Print are cheaper per box but take longer and require you to enter your account details yourself.
- Check-cashing services and some retail stores can print a single check when ready for a fee of $3 to $10, useful only if you need one check right away.
- You need your account number, routing number, and bank name to order checks from anywhere except your bank's own ordering system.
Ordering checks directly from your bank
This is the simplest route for most people. Call your bank's customer service line, visit a branch in person, log into your online banking portal, or use your bank's mobile app — most banks offer all four options. You will tell them how many checks you want (usually sold in boxes of 25 or 50) and whether you want any special features like duplicate copies or a different color.
Checks ordered this way arrive in five to ten business days, depending on your bank and how far you live from their processing center. Your bank will mail them to the address on file with your account. The cost varies by bank — expect $10 to $30 per box, though some banks include one free box per year with certain account types. Ask your bank whether they charge a fee before you order.
The advantage is that your bank handles everything: they have your account number and routing number already, they verify your identity, and the checks will work when ready because they are printed with your real account information. There is no risk of entering the wrong numbers or ordering checks that your bank will not accept.
Using an online check printer
Companies like Deluxe, Costco Print, and Walmart Print offer checks online, usually at a lower price per box than your bank charges. You order on their website, enter your account number and routing number yourself, and they mail the checks to you. Delivery typically takes seven to fourteen business days.
The main savings come from volume — if you order multiple boxes at once, the per-box cost drops. A box of 50 checks might cost $8 to $15 from an online printer versus $15 to $25 from your bank. However, you are responsible for entering your account details correctly. If you make a mistake, the checks will not work, and you will have to order again.
Before you order, confirm that your bank will accept checks from that printer. Most banks do, but some have restrictions. Call your bank's customer service line or check their website. Also verify that the printer can handle your account type — some specialize in personal checks and may not print business checks, or vice versa.
Getting a single check printed when ready
If you need one check today and cannot wait for mail delivery, a check-cashing service or some retail stores can print a single check on the spot. You provide your account information, and they print and hand you the check within minutes. The cost is usually $3 to $10 per check, depending on the location.
This option is expensive if you need more than one or two checks, but it solves the problem of needing to pay someone by check right now. Check-cashing services are common in neighborhoods without many banks. Some Walmart locations and office supply stores like Staples also offer this service — call ahead to confirm they have it available.
The risk is the same as with online printers: if you enter your account number wrong, the check will not work. Double-check the information before the service prints it.
Buying blank checks at a store
Office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot sell blank check stock that you can print yourself if you have a printer and the right software. This is the cheapest option per check but requires you to have the right equipment and know how to set up the printing correctly. Most people find this too complicated and stick with one of the other options.
Blank checks sold this way are not connected to your bank account — you have to fill in your account number, routing number, and bank name by hand or by printer. They are legal to use, but many banks prefer checks printed with your information already on them, because handwritten account numbers are harder to read and process. Ask your bank whether they will accept blank checks before you buy them.
What information you need to order checks
If you order from your bank directly, you do not need to provide any information — they have it all. If you order from an online printer or check-cashing service, you will need three pieces of information: your account number (the number that identifies your specific account), your routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank), and your bank's name and address.
You can find your account number and routing number on a check you already have — they are printed at the bottom. Your account number is on the right, and your routing number is on the left. If you do not have a check, call your bank and ask them to give you both numbers. They are not secret information and the bank will provide them over the phone.
Cost comparison and timeline
| Source | Cost per box | Delivery time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your bank | $10–$30 | 5–10 business days | Most people; may provide to work |
| Online printer (Deluxe, Costco, Walmart) | $8–$15 | 7–14 business days | Bulk orders; lower cost |
| Check-cashing service | $3–$10 per check | Same day | One or two checks needed when ready |
| Blank checks at store | $5–$10 per pad | Same day | Rarely; requires printer and setup |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use checks from an online printer if my bank is a credit union?
Yes, as long as the printer can print checks for credit unions. Most can, but call your credit union first to confirm they will accept checks from that specific printer. Some credit unions have their own preferred vendors.
What if I order checks and they arrive with the wrong account number?
Contact the printer or your bank when ready and explain the error. They will reprint the checks at no charge. Do not use the incorrect checks — they will not work and may cause confusion with your bank.
Do I need to tell my bank I ordered checks from somewhere other than them?
No. Your bank does not need to know where you ordered checks from. As long as the checks have your correct account number and routing number, your bank will process them normally.
How long do checks stay valid once I receive them?
Checks do not expire, but banks may refuse to process a check that is more than six months old. If you order checks and do not use them for a long time, they should still work, but it is safer to use them within a year.
Can I order checks if I just opened my account?
Yes. You can order checks as soon as your account is open and active. Your bank will have your account number and routing number assigned when ready, so you can place an order right away.