Most banks and credit unions issue cashier's checks, but not all do it the same way
Any bank or credit union you have an account with will issue a cashier's check. Many will also issue one even if you don't have an account there, though they may charge more or require you to bring cash. The catch is that availability varies by branch and by institution — some smaller banks don't issue them at all, and some require advance notice or have daily limits on the amount.
The fastest route is your own bank during business hours. Walk in with your ID and the funds, tell the teller you need a cashier's check, and you'll usually have it in 10 to 15 minutes. If you bank online-only, you'll need to visit a partner branch or request one by mail, which takes longer.
Credit unions typically issue cashier's checks to members at no charge or for a small fee (usually $1 to $5). Non-members can sometimes request one, but policies vary widely — call ahead before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Your own bank is the easiest source; most issue cashier's checks same-day during business hours for $5 to $15.
- Credit unions often charge less than banks and may issue them free to members.
- Online-only banks require you to mail a request or visit a partner branch, which adds several days.
- Non-members can sometimes get a cashier's check from a bank, but fees are higher and policies differ by location.
- Bring your ID, the funds, and the payee name; some banks require advance notice for amounts over a certain threshold.
What to bring and what to expect when you visit
You'll need a valid photo ID, the exact amount of money (or a debit card to draw from your account), and the name of the person or business the check should be made out to. Have the payee name spelled correctly — cashier's checks can't be altered once printed, so a misspelling means you'll need a new one.
Most banks charge $5 to $15 per cashier's check. Some waive the fee for account holders or for checks over a certain amount. A few banks charge nothing. Call your bank's main number or check their website to confirm the fee before you go.
The teller will print the check on the spot and you'll walk out with it. Some banks require you to order ahead if the amount is very large (over $10,000, for example) or if you need multiple checks at once. Ask when you call.
Banks that commonly issue cashier's checks to non-members
Major national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank will issue cashier's checks to non-members, though they charge a higher fee — often $10 to $20 — and may require you to bring cash rather than use a debit card. Some branches may refuse if you have no account, so call ahead.
Regional banks vary. Some will issue to anyone; others only to account holders. Your best bet is to call the branch nearest you and ask their policy.
Credit unions are often more flexible with non-members than banks are, but it depends on the union. Call first. If you're a member of any credit union, you can usually request a cashier's check through your account online or by phone, then pick it up at a branch.
Online banks and how to get a cashier's check without a physical branch
Banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have no physical branches, so you can't walk in and request a cashier's check. Instead, you'll mail a written request to their address (found on their website), include a signed check from your account, and they'll mail the cashier's check back to you. This takes 5 to 10 business days.
Some online banks partner with a network of physical branches you can visit. Charles Schwab, for example, lets you visit any Schwab branch or use ATMs in the MoneyPass network. Check your bank's website to see if they have a branch locator.
If you need a cashier's check urgently and bank online-only, your fastest option is to visit a local branch of a major bank and pay their non-member fee. It's more expensive than your own bank, but faster than waiting for the mail.
Credit unions and their cashier's check policies
Credit unions typically charge $1 to $5 for a cashier's check to members, or nothing at all. Some credit unions are part of shared branching networks, which means you can visit a different credit union's branch and conduct business as if it were your own — including requesting a cashier's check.
If you belong to a credit union, log into your account online or call to ask whether you can request a cashier's check by phone or mail. Many allow it. Non-members should call the credit union directly and ask their policy; some will issue for a higher fee, and others won't.
The CO-OP Network and Alliant Credit Union's shared branching program are two of the largest networks. If your credit union participates, you can find a participating branch on their websites.
What to do if your bank won't issue a cashier's check
Some small banks and credit unions don't issue cashier's checks at all. If yours doesn't, you have a few options. First, ask whether they can refer you to a partner bank or credit union that will. Many do.
Second, visit a branch of a major bank in your area and pay their non-member fee. Bring cash or a debit card and your ID.
Third, consider a money order as an alternative. Money orders are cheaper (usually $1 to $5), widely available at post offices and grocery stores, and work for most everyday payments. They're not the same as a cashier's check — they're not may provide by a bank — but they're accepted in many situations where a personal check isn't.
A certified check is another option. Your bank certifies that the funds are in your account and sets them aside, then you write the check yourself. It's cheaper than a cashier's check and works for many purposes, though some situations specifically require a cashier's check.
Fees, limits, and timing across different institutions
| Institution Type | Typical Fee | For Members | For Non-Members | Typical Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major national bank | $5–$15 | Often waived or reduced | $10–$20 | Same day |
| Regional or local bank | $5–$10 | Often waived | Varies; call ahead | Same day |
| Credit union | $1–$5 or free | Usually free or low fee | Varies; call ahead | Same day |
| Online-only bank | $5–$15 | N/A | N/A | 5–10 business days by mail |
Most banks have daily limits on cashier's checks — often $10,000 or $25,000 per day. If you need a larger amount, call ahead and ask whether you can order it in advance or split it across multiple checks.
Timing depends on how you request it. In person at a branch, you'll have it the same day. By mail or online request, expect 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited service for an extra fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check on a weekend or after hours?
No. Banks and credit unions only issue cashier's checks during business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some branches have Saturday hours; call ahead to check. If you need one urgently on a weekend, you'll have to wait until Monday.
What if I don't know the exact payee name?
Ask the person or business you're paying for the exact spelling of their name. Cashier's checks can't be changed once printed, so a wrong name means you'll need a new check and will lose the fee. It's worth taking an extra minute to confirm.
Can I get a cashier's check made out to myself?
Yes. Some people do this to move money between accounts or banks. The bank will print it with your name as the payee, and you can deposit it into another account. There's no restriction on this, though some banks may ask why.
What's the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?
A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's own account and may provide by the bank. A certified check is your personal check that the bank certifies has sufficient funds. Cashier's checks are safer for the recipient because the bank is liable. Certified checks cost less and work for most everyday payments, but some situations require a cashier's check specifically.
Do I need an account at the bank to get a cashier's check?
No, but it helps. Account holders usually pay lower fees and face fewer restrictions. Non-members can get one from most major banks, but expect to pay $10 to $20 and bring cash. Credit unions are often more flexible with non-members than banks are.