Where to get a cashier's check

You can get a cashier's check from any bank or credit union where you have an account. Walk into a branch during business hours, go to the teller window, and ask for one. Some banks also let you order them online or by phone, though you'll still need to pick it up in person or have it mailed to you. A few banks charge a small fee — typically $5 to $15 — though many waive the fee for customers who maintain certain account balances.

If you don't have a bank account, some banks will issue a cashier's check to non-customers, but they may charge a higher fee or require you to bring cash to cover the full amount plus the fee. Call ahead to ask. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible with non-members than banks are.

You can also get a cashier's check from some check-cashing services and money transfer businesses, though these typically charge more than banks do. The trade-off is convenience — they often have longer hours and more locations than traditional banks.

Key Takeaways

  • Your own bank or credit union is the fastest and cheapest place to get a cashier's check, and most issue them same-day at the teller window.
  • You'll need to provide the exact name and amount for the payee, so confirm these details before you go to the bank.
  • Cashier's checks typically cost between $5 and $15, though many banks waive the fee for account holders.
  • If you need the check mailed rather than picked up in person, allow extra time — delivery usually takes three to five business days.
  • Non-customers can sometimes get cashier's checks from banks and check-cashing services, but expect to pay a higher fee.

What information you need to bring

Before you go to the bank, know exactly who the check should be made out to and how much it should be for. The payee name must be precise — if you're paying a business, use the legal name on their invoice or contract, not a shortened version. If you're unsure, ask the person or business receiving the check how they want their name written.

Bring a valid photo ID and your debit card or account number. If you're a non-customer, bring cash or a personal check to cover the amount plus the fee. Some banks may ask for additional information depending on the amount — for very large checks, they may need to verify the source of the funds for compliance reasons.

The step-by-step process at the bank

Go to your bank during business hours and tell the teller you need a cashier's check. They'll give you a form to fill out or ask you the details directly. You'll provide the payee name, the amount, and any memo line information (optional — this is just a note for the recipient). Double-check everything before you hand it back, because mistakes mean starting over.

The teller will deduct the amount from your account immediately and issue the check. Most banks print them on the spot, so you'll walk out with it in hand. Some banks mail them instead, which takes longer but works if you can't pick one up in person. Ask the teller which option applies to you.

Once you have the check, don't sign it until the recipient is ready to deposit it. A signed blank cashier's check is as good as cash to whoever holds it.

Timing: how long it takes

If you go to your bank in person during business hours, you can get a cashier's check the same day — usually within 15 to 30 minutes. If you order online or by phone, pickup is typically available within one business day. If you need it mailed, add three to five business days for delivery.

Plan ahead if you need the check by a specific date. Weekends and holidays slow things down, and some banks have cutoff times after which same-day requests become next-day requests. Call your bank if you're cutting it close.

Cost and fees

Most banks charge $5 to $15 per cashier's check. Many waive the fee entirely if you maintain a minimum balance, have direct deposit set up, or meet other account requirements — ask your bank what their waiver conditions are. Credit unions often charge less than banks, sometimes $2 to $5 or nothing at all.

Non-bank check-cashing services typically charge $10 to $25 or more, depending on the amount of the check. Money transfer businesses like Western Union may charge a percentage of the check amount rather than a flat fee. If cost matters, call around before you go.

What happens after you get it

The person or business you're paying will deposit or cash the check like any other check. The funds come out of your account immediately when the bank issues it, not when the recipient deposits it, so don't spend that money twice. The check itself clears within one to three business days after deposit, depending on the recipient's bank.

Keep your receipt from the bank. If something goes wrong — the check is lost, stolen, or the recipient claims they never got it — the receipt and your bank records prove you obtained it. If a cashier's check is lost or stolen before the recipient deposits it, contact your bank right away. They can put a stop on it and issue a replacement, though this process may take a few days and could involve a fee.

Alternatives if you can't get to the bank

If you can't visit a branch in person, ask your bank whether they offer online ordering with mail delivery. This works for most situations, but it takes longer and you lose the same-day certainty. Some banks also let you order by phone.

If you need the money to move faster and the recipient will accept it, consider a wire transfer instead. Wires move in hours rather than days, though they cost more (typically $15 to $30) and can't be reversed once sent. A personal check works for smaller amounts if the recipient trusts you and is willing to wait for it to clear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without a bank account?

Yes, but you'll pay more. Some banks and most check-cashing services will issue one to non-customers for a higher fee, usually $15 to $25. You'll need to bring cash or a personal check to cover the full amount plus the fee. Call ahead to confirm the business will do this before you go.

What if I make a mistake on the cashier's check?

You can't fix it. Ask the teller for a new one and they'll void the incorrect check and refund your money. This is why it's important to verify all details — payee name, amount, and spelling — before the teller issues it.

How long does a cashier's check take to clear?

The recipient's bank typically clears it within one to three business days of deposit. The money comes out of your account immediately when the bank issues the check, not when it clears, so plan accordingly.

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

Contact your bank immediately. They can place a stop on it and issue a replacement, though this may take several days and could involve a fee. Keep your receipt so you can prove you obtained the original check.

Is a cashier's check safer than a personal check?

Yes. A cashier's check is may provide by the bank, so the recipient knows the money is there. A personal check depends on your account having sufficient funds. This is why landlords, sellers, and businesses often require cashier's checks for large transactions.