Not every bank issues cashier's checks, and some that do have restrictions on who can request them

Most national banks and credit unions issue cashier's checks, but smaller institutions, online-only banks, and some regional banks do not. If your bank does not offer them, you will need to go to one that does — you do not have to be a customer. The catch: banks that do issue them often require you to be an account holder, and some limit the number you can get per day or week.

Before you make a trip, call your bank's main branch or check their website for their cashier's check policy. Ask three things: whether they issue them at all, whether you need to be a customer, and whether there are limits on how many you can get. This takes five minutes and saves a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Most large national banks and credit unions issue cashier's checks, but online banks and some smaller institutions do not.
  • Many banks require you to be an account holder to get a cashier's check, though some will issue one to non-customers for a higher fee.
  • You will need the exact payee name, amount, and reason for the check when you request one.
  • Processing takes anywhere from same-day to three business days depending on the bank and whether you order in person or by phone.
  • Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per check, and some banks charge more if you are not a customer.

Which banks issue cashier's checks

The major national banks — Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, Citibank, and US Bank — all issue cashier's checks at their branches. Most regional banks and credit unions do as well. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover do not, because they have no physical branches where you can pick one up or sign documents.

If you are unsure whether your bank offers them, the fastest way to find out is to call the branch directly or log into your online banking portal and search for "cashier's check." Many banks have a dedicated page or phone line for this service. If your bank does not offer them, you have two options: open an account at a bank that does, or go to a bank where you are not a customer and pay a higher fee.

Whether you need to be a customer

Most banks require you to be an account holder — checking or savings — to get a cashier's check. This is their standard policy because it ties the check to a known customer and reduces fraud risk. If you do not have an account at a bank that issues cashier's checks, you have three paths forward.

First, you can open a checking account at a bank that issues them. This takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or online, and you can often get a cashier's check the same day. Second, you can ask a friend or family member who banks there to request one on your behalf — they will need to provide the payee name and amount, and the check will be drawn on their account. Third, you can go to a bank where you are not a customer and ask if they will issue one for a non-customer fee, which is typically $10 to $25 instead of the standard $5 to $10 for account holders.

Call ahead before trying the non-customer route. Not all banks will do it, and policies vary by branch.

What you need to bring or provide

When you request a cashier's check, you will need to tell the bank the exact payee name, the amount, and usually the reason for the check. The payee name must be spelled correctly — if it is wrong, the check is worthless to the recipient and you will need a new one. Write down the name exactly as it appears on the recipient's documents or ask them to spell it for you.

You will also need to provide payment for the check amount plus the fee. Most banks deduct this from your account immediately if you are a customer. If you are a non-customer, you may need to pay in cash or with a debit card. Some banks will not issue a cashier's check for an amount larger than your account balance, even if you bring cash to cover it, so ask about limits when you call.

Bring a government-issued ID — a driver's license or passport. The bank will verify your identity before issuing the check, especially if you are not a regular customer.

How long it takes to get one

If you go to the bank in person during business hours, you can often get a cashier's check the same day. The teller will verify the payee name, deduct the amount from your account, and hand you the check — the whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Some banks have a small delay if they need a manager to approve it, but this is rare.

If you call or request one online, processing takes one to three business days. Some banks offer expedited service for an extra fee if you need it faster. If you need a cashier's check urgently, going in person is always the quickest option.

Do not assume the check is ready just because the bank says it will be. Call the branch the day before you plan to pick it up to confirm it has been prepared and is waiting for you.

Fees and what they cover

Cashier's check fees range from $5 to $15 per check at most banks. Account holders typically pay the lower end; non-customers pay more. Some banks charge extra if you need the check urgently or if you request it by phone instead of in person.

The fee covers the bank's cost to verify funds, print the check, and may provide it will not bounce. Once you have the check, there are no additional fees — the recipient can deposit or cash it without paying anything extra, though their own bank may charge them a fee if they are not a customer there.

A few banks waive the fee for certain account types — premium checking accounts or accounts with high balances sometimes include free cashier's checks. Ask your bank whether your account qualifies.

What to do if your bank will not issue one

If your bank does not issue cashier's checks and you do not want to open a new account, you have alternatives. Credit unions often issue them to non-members for a fee, sometimes lower than banks charge. Call a few credit unions in your area and ask their policy.

Another option is a money order, which is similar but not identical. Money orders are issued by post offices, grocery stores, and convenience stores, and they do not require a bank account. They are may provide like a cashier's check but have lower limits — usually $500 to $1,000 per money order. If you need to send more than that, you would need multiple money orders, which is cumbersome.

A third option is a certified check, which your own bank can issue even if they do not offer cashier's checks. A certified check is a personal check from your account that the bank stamps to may provide the funds are there. It costs less than a cashier's check and works for most purposes, though some recipients specifically request a cashier's check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check from a bank where I do not have an account?

Some banks will issue one to non-customers for a higher fee, typically $15 to $25. Call the branch first to ask their policy — not all banks do this. If they refuse, you can open an account, ask someone with an account there to request one on your behalf, or use a credit union instead.

What if I make a mistake on the payee name?

You cannot change it once the check is printed. You will need to request a new check with the correct name and pay another fee. This is why it is critical to verify the payee name before you go to the bank — ask the recipient to spell it or show you their official documents.

Do I need to be present to pick up a cashier's check?

Most banks require you to pick it up in person or authorize someone else to do so with a signed letter. Some banks will mail it to you, but this takes longer and some will not do it at all. Ask when you request the check whether they can mail it or whether you must come in.

Can I get a cashier's check for someone else?

Yes, if you have an account at the bank. You provide the payee name, amount, and your payment method. The check will be drawn on your account, so you are responsible for the funds. The recipient does not need to be present.

What is the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?

A cashier's check is issued by the bank and drawn on the bank's account, so it is may provide by the bank itself. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps to verify the funds exist. Cashier's checks are more secure and are preferred for large transactions, but certified checks cost less and work for most purposes.