A cashier check is a check the bank itself writes and guarantees, not you
A cashier check is a check drawn on the bank's own account and signed by a bank employee, not by you. The bank pulls the money from your account at the time you request the check, then holds it until the check clears. Because the bank's name and may provide are on it, the person receiving it knows the money is there — the check will not bounce.
This is different from a personal check, which you write yourself and which can fail if your account runs low. A cashier check is also different from a certified check, where the bank certifies that your personal check is good, but the bank is not the one writing it.
You pay a fee for a cashier check — usually between $5 and $15 per check, depending on your bank. Some banks waive the fee for customers with certain account types.
Key Takeaways
- The bank writes a cashier check from its own account and guarantees it will clear, making it safer than a personal check for large or important payments.
- You must have the money in your account when you request the check; the bank withdraws it immediately and holds it until the check is deposited.
- Cashier checks cost between $5 and $15 each, though some account holders may have the fee waived.
- Real estate closings, security deposits, and large purchases often require cashier checks because sellers and landlords trust them more than personal checks.
Why someone might ask for a cashier check instead of a personal check
A seller or landlord asks for a cashier check when they need certainty that the money exists and will not disappear. With a personal check, there is always a small risk that your account does not have enough money, or that you stop payment on the check after handing it over. A cashier check removes that risk because the bank has already set the money aside.
This matters most in high-stakes situations. A real estate closing often requires a cashier check for the down payment or closing costs because the seller is transferring a property worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. A landlord might ask for a cashier check as a security deposit because they need to know the money will be there if you break the lease. A car dealer or private seller might ask for one on a large purchase to avoid the risk of a bounced check.
Some businesses also ask for cashier checks to avoid fraud. A personal check can be forged or altered more easily than a cashier check, which has security features and the bank's verification behind it.
How to get a cashier check from your bank
Go to your bank in person or call and ask for a cashier check. You will need to tell the bank the exact amount, the name of the person or business the check should be made out to, and any other details the recipient requires. Bring your ID and your debit card or account information.
The bank will withdraw the money from your account right away. You will receive the check, usually within a few minutes if you are at a branch, or within one to two business days if you request it by phone or online. Some banks can mail a cashier check to you, though this takes longer.
You cannot get a cashier check if you do not have enough money in your account. The bank will not write it unless the funds are there. If you need the check made out to two people, or if you need it sent to an address other than yours, tell the bank when you request it — these details matter for the recipient.
What happens after you hand over a cashier check
Once the recipient deposits the cashier check, it goes through the banking system like any other check. The receiving bank contacts your bank to confirm the check is real and the money is there. This usually takes one to three business days, though it can be faster.
The money leaves your account the moment you request the check, not when it clears. This means if you lose the check or the recipient never deposits it, you will need to ask your bank to put a stop payment on it and refund your money. This process can take weeks, so it is important to hand the check directly to the person who needs it or mail it in a way you can track.
If the check is lost or stolen before it is deposited, contact your bank immediately. You will likely need to sign an affidavit saying the check was lost, and the bank may require you to wait a certain amount of time (often 30 to 90 days) before refunding you, in case the check shows up.
Cashier checks versus other ways to send money
A wire transfer moves money directly from one bank account to another and clears almost instantly. It is faster than a cashier check but costs more (usually $15 to $30) and requires you to provide the recipient's bank details. Wire transfers are common for real estate closings and large purchases.
A certified check is your personal check, but the bank stamps it to confirm the money is in your account. It costs less than a cashier check (usually $2 to $10) but is not as safe because your name is still on it. Some recipients accept certified checks, but many prefer cashier checks.
A money order is a prepaid check you can buy at a bank, post office, or grocery store. It is cheaper than a cashier check (usually $1 to $5) but is limited to smaller amounts, typically $500 to $1,000 per order. Money orders are useful for paying bills or sending money through the mail, but most sellers and landlords do not accept them for large transactions.
A personal check is the cheapest option (free if you have checks printed) but offers no may provide. Most landlords and sellers will not accept a personal check for a security deposit or down payment because the money might not be there.
Common situations where you will need a cashier check
Real estate closings almost always require a cashier check for the down payment, closing costs, or both. The title company or attorney handling the closing will tell you exactly how much to bring and whether they want a cashier check, wire transfer, or both.
Rental applications often ask for a cashier check as a security deposit, especially for larger amounts. Some landlords will accept a personal check, but a cashier check removes any doubt about whether you have the money.
Private sales of cars, motorcycles, or other high-value items sometimes require a cashier check. A seller is less likely to hand over the title or keys if they are not sure the payment will clear.
Court-ordered payments, such as child support or restitution, may require a cashier check as proof that the money was sent. Some courts specify this in their orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel a cashier check after I get it?
Yes, but it is difficult. Contact your bank immediately and ask for a stop payment. The bank will likely require you to sign an affidavit and may charge a fee. You will have to wait 30 to 90 days to make sure the check does not show up before the bank refunds your money.
What if I lose a cashier check?
Call your bank right away and report it lost. You will need to sign an affidavit and the bank will put a stop payment on it. Expect to wait 30 to 90 days before receiving a refund, in case someone tries to cash the lost check.
Can I get a cashier check without going to the bank in person?
Many banks allow you to request a cashier check by phone or online, and they will mail it to you or have it ready for pickup. Call your bank to ask what options they offer. Mailing usually takes three to five business days.
Is a cashier check the same as a bank check?
Yes, cashier check and bank check are the same thing. Both refer to a check the bank writes from its own account. Some people also call it an official check.
Do I need a cashier check if I am paying with a wire transfer instead?
No. A wire transfer and a cashier check are two different ways to send money. Ask the recipient which one they prefer. Wire transfers are faster but cost more; cashier checks are slower but cheaper.