Where to get a cashier's check

You get a cashier's check from a bank or credit union where you have an account. Walk into a branch during business hours, go to a teller, and ask for one. You'll need to tell them the amount, provide the name of the person or business the check should be made out to, and have the funds available in your account to cover it. Most banks issue them the same day, though some may take up to one business day.

Not all financial institutions offer cashier's checks in the same way. Some banks charge a fee (typically $5 to $15 per check), while others waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or account type. Credit unions often charge less or nothing at all. Call ahead or check your bank's website to confirm they issue them and what the cost is.

If you don't have an account at a bank, you have limited options. Some banks will issue a cashier's check to a non-customer for a higher fee, but policies vary widely. Your best bet is to open a basic checking account first, which usually takes 15 minutes and costs nothing.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have an account at the bank or credit union issuing the check, and the funds must be in your account when you request it.
  • Bring a photo ID and be ready to specify the payee name, amount, and any special instructions the recipient needs.
  • Most banks issue cashier's checks same-day at a branch, though some require one business day.
  • Fees range from nothing to $15 depending on your bank and account type; ask before you request one.
  • If you need the check urgently, call your bank first to confirm they can issue it that day and have the funds ready.

What you need to bring to the bank

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will verify your identity before issuing the check. You'll also need to know the exact name of the person or business the check should be made out to. Misspelling a name can cause problems when the recipient tries to deposit it, so double-check the spelling before you hand it to the teller.

Have the exact dollar amount ready. You can request a cashier's check for any amount as long as you have that much in your account. If you're not sure of the exact figure — for example, if you're paying a contractor and the final bill isn't settled — ask the recipient for a written quote or invoice showing the amount.

If the check is for a business transaction, bring any paperwork that explains why you need it. This isn't always required, but having an invoice or contract on hand can speed things up if the teller has questions.

The cost and how long it takes

Cashier's check fees vary by bank. National banks like Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo typically charge $7 to $10 per check. Credit unions often charge $3 to $5 or waive the fee entirely. Some banks don't charge if you maintain a minimum balance or have a premium account type. A few banks offer them free to all customers, though this is becoming less common.

The fee comes out of your account when you request the check. The teller will tell you the cost before they issue it, so you can decide whether to proceed.

Most banks issue cashier's checks immediately at the branch. You walk out with the check in hand the same day. Some smaller banks or credit unions may need one business day to prepare it, so ask when you call or arrive. If you need it urgently, mention that to the teller — they can usually prioritize same-day issuance.

What information goes on the check

A cashier's check includes the bank's name and routing number, the date you request it, the payee name (who it's made out to), the dollar amount in both numbers and words, and your account number. The bank's teller or officer signs it, which is what makes it official and may provide by the bank.

You can request a memo line — a small space where you can note what the check is for, such as "rent" or "car payment." This is optional but can help the recipient track what the payment covers. Tell the teller if you want a memo included.

The check will have a unique serial number, which you should write down or photograph for your records. Keep this number in case you need to stop payment or track the check later.

Stopping payment on a cashier's check

Stopping payment on a cashier's check is harder than stopping payment on a personal check, because the bank has already may provide the funds. Most banks will not stop payment unless you can show the check was lost, stolen, or issued by mistake. You'll need to file a written request and usually provide an affidavit (a sworn statement) explaining why.

The process takes time — often 30 to 90 days — because the bank has to wait to see if the check is presented for deposit. If it is, the bank will honor it. If it isn't presented within a set period (usually 90 days to six months, depending on your bank), the bank may refund the amount to your account, minus a fee.

The best approach is to be certain before you request the check. Verify the payee name, amount, and recipient's address. If you're unsure, ask the recipient to confirm the details in writing before you go to the bank.

Alternatives if your bank can't issue one

If your bank doesn't offer cashier's checks or you don't have an account, a money order is the closest alternative. You can buy a money order at most grocery stores, pharmacies, post offices, and check-cashing services. Money orders work similarly — they're prepaid and may provide — but they have lower limits (usually $500 to $1,000 per order) and cost $1 to $5 each.

A certified check is another option. Your bank stamps your personal check as "certified," which means the bank has verified the funds are in your account and set them aside. Certified checks cost less than cashier's checks (often $2 to $5) and work the same way from the recipient's perspective. However, they're less common now, and some banks charge the same fee as a cashier's check.

Wire transfers are faster for large amounts and work between accounts at different banks, but they cost more ($15 to $50) and can't be stopped once sent. ACH transfers are cheaper ($0 to $3) but take one to three business days. Ask the recipient which method they prefer before you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without going to the bank in person?

Most banks require you to visit a branch or call ahead to arrange one. Some larger banks offer cashier's checks through their mobile app or online banking, but this is still uncommon. Call your bank to ask if they offer remote ordering. If they do, you'll usually pick up the check at a branch or have it mailed to you, which adds time.

What if I don't know the exact amount for the cashier's check?

Ask the recipient for a written quote or invoice showing the exact amount. If the amount might change — for example, if you're paying for a service that isn't finished yet — wait until you have a final bill before requesting the check. You can always get another cashier's check later if needed.

How long is a cashier's check good for?

Cashier's checks don't expire, but banks may refuse to honor one that's very old (typically older than six months to a year). The recipient should deposit or cash it within a few months to avoid problems. If the check sits too long, you may need to request a new one.

Can someone else pick up my cashier's check?

Most banks require the person who requested the check to pick it up in person with a photo ID. Some banks may allow a family member or authorized representative to pick it up if you provide written permission and they show ID, but policies vary. Call your bank to ask before you arrange for someone else to get it.

What if the cashier's check is lost or stolen?

Contact your bank immediately and provide the check number and amount. File a written stop-payment request and an affidavit. The bank will monitor for the check to be presented. If it isn't cashed within 90 days to six months (depending on your bank), you can request a replacement or refund. Keep your receipt and the check number for your records.