Your bank or credit union is the fastest place to get a cashier's check

Walk into any bank or credit union where you have an account and ask for a cashier's check. Most will issue one on the spot if you have enough money in your account to cover it. You'll pay a fee — typically $10 to $15, though some banks charge less or waive it for certain account types — and the check will be ready within minutes.

If you don't have an account at a bank or credit union, you can still get a cashier's check there, but the process takes longer and costs more. You'll need to open an account first, which requires an ID and proof of address. Some banks will issue the check the same day; others require you to wait one business day for the account to activate.

Call ahead before you go. Ask whether they charge a fee, how long it takes, and what documents you need to bring. Hours vary by location, and some branches close early on Fridays or don't open on weekends.

Key Takeaways

  • Your own bank or credit union is the easiest source and usually charges $10 to $15 per check.
  • You need a valid ID and enough money in your account to cover the check amount plus the fee.
  • Most banks issue cashier's checks within minutes if you have an account; without one, you may need to open an account first.
  • Money transfer services and some grocery stores offer cashier's checks as an alternative, though fees and availability vary by location.
  • Never buy a cashier's check from an unfamiliar source or someone offering to issue one outside a bank — this is a common scam.

What to bring and what to expect at the bank

Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will ask you to write down the name of the person or business the check is payable to, the amount, and your account number. You'll sign the check request form, and the bank will deduct the amount plus the fee from your account.

The teller will hand you the check, which has a bank routing number and account number printed on it. The check is may provide by the bank itself, not by your personal account, which is why it's safer than a personal check for large transactions. Do not sign the back of the check until the person receiving it is ready to deposit it.

If you need the check mailed to you instead of picking it up in person, most banks can do this, but it adds two to five business days. Some banks charge an extra fee for mailing.

Money transfer services and alternative sources

Western Union and MoneyGram locations — often found in grocery stores, pharmacies, and check-cashing shops — can issue cashier's checks, though not all locations do. Call ahead to confirm. Fees are typically $5 to $10, and you'll need a valid ID and cash or a debit card to pay for the check.

Some grocery store customer service desks issue cashier's checks if you have a checking account at a bank they partner with. Walmart and other large retailers sometimes offer this service as well. Fees and availability depend on the store and the bank.

Check-cashing shops can issue cashier's checks, but fees are often higher — $15 to $25 — and the process may take longer. Use this option only if your bank is closed or unavailable.

When you don't have a bank account

If you don't have a checking account, opening one is still your best option. Many banks offer no-fee checking accounts and can issue a cashier's check the same day you open the account. Bring two forms of ID, proof of address (a utility bill or lease), and enough cash to cover the check amount plus any account opening deposit.

Credit unions often have lower fees and faster service than banks, especially if you're opening an account for the first time. You may need to join the credit union first, which sometimes requires a small deposit ($5 to $25) and membership in a specific group — teachers, employees of a certain company, or residents of a certain area.

If you need a cashier's check urgently and can't open a bank account in time, a money transfer service or check-cashing shop is your fallback, though you'll pay more in fees.

Fees, timing, and what to watch for

Cashier's check fees range from free (at some banks for premium account holders) to $25 at check-cashing shops. Most banks charge $10 to $15. Ask about the fee before you commit — some banks waive it if you maintain a minimum balance or have direct deposit set up.

Timing depends on where you go. Banks and credit unions usually issue checks within minutes during business hours. Money transfer services may take 15 to 30 minutes. If you need the check mailed, add two to five business days. If you need a cashier's check on a weekend or holiday, plan ahead — most banks are closed.

Never buy a cashier's check from someone outside a bank or established money transfer service. Scammers sometimes pose as cashiers or claim they can issue checks without a bank account. A real cashier's check always comes from a bank or credit union and has the bank's routing number printed on it.

Replacing a lost or damaged cashier's check

If you lose a cashier's check before depositing it, contact the bank that issued it immediately. Bring your ID and the receipt you received when you bought the check. The bank will put a stop on the original check and issue a replacement, usually within one to three business days. You may be charged a replacement fee of $15 to $30.

If the check is damaged — torn, water-damaged, or illegible — most banks will replace it for free or a small fee if you bring the damaged check and your receipt. Do not attempt to tape or repair the check yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, but it's slower and more expensive. You can open a checking account at a bank or credit union and get a cashier's check the same day, or use a money transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram. Expect to pay $15 to $25 in fees and bring two forms of ID and proof of address.

How long does it take to get a cashier's check?

If you have a bank account, most banks issue cashier's checks within minutes during business hours. Without an account, you may need to open one first, which can take 15 minutes to an hour. If you need it mailed, add two to five business days.

What's the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?

A cashier's check is issued and may provide by the bank itself. A certified check is your personal check that the bank has verified and stamped as good. Cashier's checks are safer for large transactions because they're backed by the bank's funds, not your account.

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

Yes, but only if you haven't given it to anyone yet. Contact the bank that issued it with your receipt. The bank will put a stop on the check and refund your money, minus a cancellation fee of $15 to $30. If the check has already been deposited or cashed, you cannot cancel it.

Is there a limit to how much a cashier's check can be for?

Most banks have no upper limit on cashier's check amounts, but they may require advance notice for very large checks (over $10,000). Some banks report large cashier's checks to the IRS as part of federal reporting requirements. Ask your bank about their policy on large amounts.