Banks and credit unions are your most straightforward sources for a cashier's check

Your own bank or credit union is almost always the easiest place to get a cashier's check. Walk into a branch with your ID and the funds in your account, and most will issue one on the spot — often within minutes. You do not need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.

If you bank online only, you have two paths: visit a branch location in person, or call the customer service number on your debit card and ask whether they can mail one to you. Some online banks will mail a cashier's check at no cost; others charge a small fee. The mailed version typically takes three to five business days to arrive.

Credit unions work the same way. If you are a member, go to any branch (yours or another in the network) with your ID and account information. Non-members cannot get a cashier's check from a credit union.

Key Takeaways

  • Your bank or credit union will issue a cashier's check in minutes if you visit in person with your ID and have the funds in your account.
  • Online-only banks can mail cashier's checks, though it takes three to five business days and may carry a fee.
  • Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per check, though some banks waive the fee for certain account types.
  • If you do not have a bank account, check-cashing services and some grocery stores can issue cashier's checks, usually for a higher fee.
  • You will need to know the exact payee name and amount before you arrive, because cashier's checks cannot be altered once issued.

What to bring and what information you will need

Bring a government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will verify your identity and confirm you have enough money in your account to cover the check amount plus any fee.

You must know the exact name of the person or business the check is payable to. Cashier's checks cannot be changed once printed, so misspelling a name or getting the payee wrong means starting over with a new check. If you are unsure of the exact legal name, ask the recipient before you go to the bank.

You also need to know the exact amount. The bank will print that amount on the check, and it cannot be altered. If the amount changes after you receive the check, you will need a new one.

Fees and what they typically cost

Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some charge less; a few charge more. Credit unions often charge $3 to $10. These fees vary by institution, so call your bank before you go if cost matters to your decision.

Certain account types waive the fee entirely. Premium checking accounts, business accounts, and accounts with high balances sometimes include free cashier's checks. Ask your bank whether your account qualifies.

If you are getting multiple checks, ask whether there is a discount for ordering more than one at a time. Some banks will issue two or three for the price of one.

Check-cashing services and grocery stores

If you do not have a bank account, check-cashing services and some grocery stores (Walmart, Kroger, and others) can issue cashier's checks. Fees are usually higher than at a bank — often $10 to $25 per check — and the process may take longer because these businesses typically order them from a bank rather than issuing them directly.

You will still need a government-issued ID and the exact payee name and amount. Some check-cashing services require proof that you have funds available, either through a pay stub or a bank statement showing a recent deposit.

Call ahead to confirm they offer cashier's checks and what their current fee is. Not every location does, and fees can vary between branches.

Getting a cashier's check if you do not have an account

If you have no bank account but have cash on hand, a check-cashing service is your option. Bring the cash, your ID, and the payee information. They will take the cash, charge their fee, and issue the check. This usually takes 10 to 20 minutes if they have the check in stock, or a few days if they have to order it.

Some banks will also issue a cashier's check to a non-customer if you bring cash and a valid ID, though this is less common. Call your local branch and ask; policies vary.

Timing: same-day versus mailed checks

If you need the check today, visit a bank or credit union branch in person. Most will have it ready within 15 to 30 minutes. If the branch is busy, it might take longer, so arrive early or call ahead.

If you are ordering by mail from an online bank, expect three to five business days for delivery. Some banks offer expedited mailing for an extra fee, which can cut that to one or two business days.

If you need a cashier's check urgently and do not have time to visit a branch, ask your bank whether they can issue one over the phone and mail it overnight. A few banks offer this service, though it usually costs extra.

What to do if your bank refuses or cannot issue one

Banks occasionally refuse to issue a cashier's check if they suspect fraud or if your account is flagged for suspicious activity. If this happens, ask the bank why. You may need to provide additional documentation or wait for a review to clear.

If your bank simply does not offer cashier's checks (rare, but it happens with some online-only institutions), switch to a different bank, use a credit union, or go to a check-cashing service. You do not have to be a customer of the bank issuing the check in all cases — call ahead to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you bank online or by phone. Call your bank's customer service line and request a cashier's check by mail. They will mail it to you in three to five business days. Some banks charge a fee for this service; others do not. Ask about the cost before you request it.

What if I make a mistake on the payee name?

Cashier's checks cannot be corrected once printed. You will need to ask the bank to void it and issue a new one. Most banks will do this at no extra charge if the error was theirs, but if you provided the wrong name, they may charge a second fee. Always double-check the payee name before the teller prints the check.

Can someone else pick up my cashier's check?

Most banks require the person whose name is on the account to request the check in person. Some will allow a spouse or authorized user to pick it up, but policies vary. Call your bank and ask before you send someone else to get it.

How long is a cashier's check valid?

Cashier's checks do not expire, but banks may stop honoring them after six months to a year if they are not deposited. The exact timeframe depends on your bank and state law. If your check is old, contact the bank that issued it and ask whether it is still good.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after I receive it?

Yes, but it is complicated. You will need to contact the bank that issued it, provide proof you are the account holder, and usually wait 30 to 90 days to confirm the check has not been cashed. If it has been cashed, you cannot cancel it. If it has not, the bank will typically charge a fee to issue a replacement.