Key Takeaways
- Most banks issue cashier's checks only to their own account holders, though some will issue them to non-customers for a higher fee.
- You'll need to bring a valid ID, the exact payee name, and the amount in cash or from your account to request one.
- Processing time ranges from same-day to a few business days depending on the bank and whether you're a customer.
- Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large banks and may issue cashier's checks to non-members.
- Online banks typically cannot issue cashier's checks because they have no physical branches where you can pick one up.
Account Holders Get Cashier's Checks Easiest
If you have a checking or savings account at a bank, that bank will issue you a cashier's check. Walk into any branch with your ID, tell the teller you need one, and provide the exact name of the person or business it should be made out to and the dollar amount. Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per check.
The teller will verify you have enough money in your account to cover the check, then issue it on the spot or within a few hours. Some banks can print them immediately at the teller window. Others process them overnight. Ask your bank's specific timeline when you request it.
You do not need to have the money sitting in your account ahead of time at all banks — some will deduct it when you request the check, others when you pick it up. Confirm this with your bank so you're not caught short if you're timing a transfer.
Non-Customers Face Stricter Rules and Higher Fees
If you don't have an account at the bank, most will still issue you a cashier's check, but with conditions. You'll typically need to pay the full amount of the check in cash at the time of request, plus a fee that's often $15 to $25 — roughly double what account holders pay. Some banks refuse non-customers entirely.
Call ahead before you go. Ask whether the bank issues cashier's checks to non-customers, what the fee is, what ID you need to bring, and whether they require cash or will accept a debit card. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase generally do issue them to non-customers, but policies vary by branch and region.
Processing time for non-customers is often longer — sometimes one to three business days instead of same-day. The bank may also place a hold on the funds or require you to wait while they verify the cash.
Credit Unions Often Have More Flexible Policies
Credit unions typically issue cashier's checks to members at the same low fee as banks charge account holders — usually $5 to $10. Many credit unions will also issue them to non-members, sometimes at a slightly higher fee but still cheaper than a bank's non-customer rate.
If you belong to a credit union, start there. The staff often know you, processing is usually faster, and the fee is lower. If you don't belong to one but need a cashier's check, calling a local credit union to ask about their non-member policy can save you money compared to a bank.
Online Banks Cannot Issue Cashier's Checks
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover do not issue cashier's checks because they have no physical branches. You cannot walk in and request one, and they cannot print and hand you a check in person.
If you bank online and need a cashier's check, you have two options: visit a branch of a bank where you have an account (if you also have a traditional bank account), or go to a non-customer-friendly bank or credit union and pay their non-customer fee. Some online banks partner with ATM networks or branch-sharing agreements, but these do not extend to cashier's checks.
What You Need to Bring and Provide
Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will verify your identity before issuing the check. If you're a non-customer, the bank may ask for additional ID or proof of address.
You'll need to tell the teller the exact name of the payee — the person or business the check is being made out to. Spell it correctly. You'll also need the dollar amount, written out clearly. If you're unsure of the exact amount, ask the payee before you go to the bank; a cashier's check cannot be altered once it's issued.
If you're paying in cash as a non-customer, bring the full amount plus the fee. If you're an account holder, the bank will deduct it from your account.
Processing Time Varies by Bank and Customer Status
Account holders at most banks can get a cashier's check same-day, often within minutes. Some banks issue them instantly at the teller window. Others process them overnight, so you pick it up the next business day.
Non-customers typically wait one to three business days. The bank may need time to verify the cash, confirm your identity, or process the request through their system. Weekend and holiday closures add time — if you request one on Friday afternoon, you won't pick it up until Monday or Tuesday.
Call the bank before you go and ask their specific timeline. If you need it urgently, mention that when you call; some branches can expedite for account holders.
Alternatives if a Bank Won't Issue One
If you've called around and no bank will issue you a cashier's check, a money order is the closest alternative. Post offices and many retailers like Walmart and grocery stores issue money orders for a small fee — usually $1 to $5. Money orders work similarly to cashier's checks for most transactions, though some businesses or government agencies specifically require a cashier's check.
A certified check is another option. Your own bank can issue one if you have an account there. The bank stamps your personal check to certify that the funds are available, making it nearly as secure as a cashier's check. The fee is usually $5 to $10.
If the transaction is large or the payee is skeptical of alternatives, ask them directly whether they'll accept a money order or certified check instead. Many will.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check from a bank I've never used before?
Yes, but you'll pay a higher fee — typically $15 to $25 — and you must bring the full amount in cash. Call first to confirm the bank issues them to non-customers, because some do not. Processing usually takes one to three business days.
What if I don't know the exact payee name?
Ask the person or business you're paying before you go to the bank. The payee name must be exact and spelled correctly on a cashier's check. Once it's issued, it cannot be changed.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after I've gotten it?
Yes, but it's complicated. You'll need to contact the bank that issued it and request a stop payment, usually for a fee of $15 to $30. The bank will need the check number and amount. If the check has already been cashed, the bank cannot stop it.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get a cashier's check?
No. You need a valid government-issued ID, which can be a passport or foreign national ID card that your bank accepts. Bring whatever ID you have and ask the teller whether it's acceptable.
Can I get a cashier's check for someone else?
No. The person requesting the check must be present with a valid ID. The bank will not issue a cashier's check to a third party on someone else's behalf, even if you have power of attorney.