Banks and credit unions are your primary sources for cashier's checks

Most cashier's checks come from banks and credit unions where you already have an account. Walk into a branch with your ID and the amount you need, and a teller will issue one on the spot — usually within minutes. You'll pay a fee, typically between $5 and $15, though some banks waive it for account holders who meet balance or activity requirements.

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. You'll need to open an account first, which requires an initial deposit. Some banks let you do this online, but you'll still need to visit a branch or use an ATM to withdraw cash or complete the transaction in person.

Credit unions often charge less than banks for cashier's checks and may waive the fee entirely for members. If you're not a member, you can sometimes join on the spot — many credit unions have low or no membership fees — and then request the check immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • Your own bank or credit union is the fastest and cheapest way to get a cashier's check, usually taking minutes and costing $5 to $15.
  • You can get a cashier's check from a bank or credit union where you don't have an account, but you'll need to open one first, which adds time and may require a deposit.
  • Some banks waive cashier's check fees for customers with certain account types or minimum balances, so ask before paying.
  • Online banks that don't have physical branches cannot issue cashier's checks in person, though some partner with other banks to offer them.
  • Money transfer services and check-cashing stores can issue cashier's checks but typically charge more than traditional banks.

Online banks and what to do if yours doesn't offer them

Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover don't have branch locations, so they can't hand you a cashier's check across a counter. Some online banks partner with other financial institutions to issue them — Charles Schwab customers, for example, can request a cashier's check through their account and pick it up at a partner bank or have it mailed. Check your online bank's website or call customer service to see if this option exists for you.

If your online bank doesn't offer cashier's checks at all, you have two choices: open a free account at a traditional bank or credit union just to get the check, or use a money transfer service. Opening an account takes 10 to 15 minutes online and costs nothing, so this is usually the simpler route.

Money transfer services and check-cashing stores

Services like MoneyGram and Western Union can issue cashier's checks, and check-cashing stores often do as well. These are useful if you need a check outside normal bank hours or don't have access to a bank branch. The trade-off is cost: fees run $10 to $25 or higher, roughly double what a bank charges.

Check-cashing stores are most common in urban areas and neighborhoods underserved by traditional banks. Call ahead to confirm they issue cashier's checks and what documents you'll need to bring — requirements vary by location and the amount you're requesting.

What you need to bring and how long it takes

Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and enough money to cover both the check amount and the fee. If you're requesting a large check — typically over $5,000 — the bank may ask for additional information or require you to wait while they verify funds. Some banks also ask why you need the check, though they're not required to refuse based on your answer.

At a bank or credit union where you have an account, a cashier's check takes 5 to 15 minutes. If you don't have an account, add 10 to 20 minutes for account opening. Money transfer services and check-cashing stores usually take 10 to 20 minutes as well, though this varies by location and how busy they are.

Fees and when they're waived

Standard cashier's check fees range from $5 to $15 at banks and credit unions. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance (often $500 to $2,500), have direct deposit set up, or hold a premium account type. Ask the teller before paying — the fee is sometimes negotiable, especially if you're a long-time customer or opening a new account.

Credit unions typically charge less than banks, and some waive the fee for members entirely. If you're not a member, joining costs nothing or a small one-time fee, which may be worth it if you need multiple checks or plan to use the credit union for other services.

Money transfer services and check-cashing stores charge $10 to $25 or more, so use them only if you can't access a bank or credit union. Online banks that partner with other institutions to issue checks usually charge the same fee as the partner bank.

Getting a cashier's check by mail

If you can't visit a branch in person, you can request a cashier's check by mail from your bank. Call customer service or log into your account online to start the request. You'll typically need to provide the payee's name, the amount, and a mailing address. The bank will mail the check to you, which takes 5 to 10 business days depending on postal service and the bank's processing time.

Some banks charge an extra fee for mailed cashier's checks — $5 to $10 on top of the standard fee. Ask about this before requesting one. If you need the check urgently, mailing is not a good option; in that case, visit a branch in person or use a money transfer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can open a free account at a bank or credit union on the spot and request the check immediately, or you can use a money transfer service or check-cashing store. Opening an account is usually faster and cheaper than paying the higher fees these services charge.

What's the maximum amount I can get for a cashier's check?

There's no legal limit, but banks may place their own limits or require extra verification for very large amounts. Call your bank ahead of time if you need a check for more than $10,000 so they can prepare and confirm they have the funds available.

Can I get a cashier's check on a weekend or holiday?

Most bank branches are closed on weekends and holidays, so you can't get a cashier's check then. Money transfer services and some check-cashing stores stay open longer hours and on weekends, but they charge higher fees. Plan ahead if you need a check on a specific date.

Do I need to know the payee's name before I get the check?

Yes. A cashier's check must be made out to a specific person or business, and you can't change it once it's issued. Bring the exact name of who will receive the check, spelled correctly.

What if I lose a cashier's check after I've gotten it?

Contact the bank that issued it immediately. They can place a stop payment on it, which prevents anyone else from cashing it. You'll usually pay a fee ($15 to $30) to get a replacement, and the bank may require you to sign an indemnity agreement stating you'll cover any losses if the original check surfaces and is cashed.