You can get a cashier's check from a credit union, check-cashing store, or money transfer service even without a bank account
A cashier's check is a check drawn on the issuer's own account rather than yours, which is why it carries more weight than a personal check. If you don't have a bank account, you have three main routes: a credit union (if you're a member), a check-cashing business, or a money transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram. Each has different costs, speed, and requirements.
The fastest and cheapest option is usually a credit union if you belong to one. Check-cashing stores are the most available but charge the highest fees. Money transfer services fall in the middle on both cost and convenience. None of these require you to open an account first.
Key Takeaways
- Credit unions issue cashier's checks to members for a flat fee (usually $5 to $15) and can often complete them same-day.
- Check-cashing businesses will issue a cashier's check without membership but typically charge 1 to 3 percent of the check amount.
- Money transfer services like Western Union and MoneyGram offer cashier's checks at most locations for a flat fee plus a small percentage.
- You will need to bring cash or a debit card, a valid ID, and know the exact payee name and amount before you arrive.
- Processing time ranges from minutes (check-cashing stores) to one business day (credit unions and money transfer services).
Getting a cashier's check at a credit union
If you are a member of a credit union, this is your cheapest option. Most credit unions charge between $5 and $15 for a cashier's check, and many can issue one the same day you request it. You will need to bring cash or a debit card to fund the check, your valid ID, and the exact name of the payee.
Call your credit union first to confirm they issue cashier's checks to members and whether they can do it same-day or if it takes one business day. Some credit unions have limits on how many you can request at once. Bring the funds in cash or be prepared to transfer money from a debit card if you have one; the credit union will draw the check from their own account once you've paid them.
Using a check-cashing store
Check-cashing businesses are found in most neighborhoods and will issue a cashier's check without any membership or account. The trade-off is cost: most charge between 1 and 3 percent of the check amount. On a $5,000 check, that's $50 to $150. Some stores charge a flat fee instead (typically $10 to $25), so ask which method they use before you commit.
Bring cash, a valid ID, and the payee's exact name. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Ask the store whether they issue the check on their own account (which makes it a true cashier's check) or on a third-party account; a true cashier's check drawn on the store's account is safer for the recipient. Some stores use third-party check printers, which is still legitimate but slightly less direct.
Money transfer services like Western Union and MoneyGram
Western Union and MoneyGram, found in grocery stores, pharmacies, and dedicated locations, both offer cashier's checks. Fees vary by location and amount but typically run $10 to $30 plus a small percentage of the check amount. Processing usually takes one business day, though some locations may offer same-day service for an extra fee.
Bring cash, a valid ID, and the payee's name and address. You will fill out a form with the check amount and recipient details. The check is drawn on the money transfer service's account, making it a legitimate cashier's check. Call ahead to confirm the specific location offers cashier's checks, since not all do.
What you need to bring and know before you go
Have these items ready: cash or a debit card to fund the check, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and the exact legal name of the person or business the check is payable to. If the payee is a business, use their full legal name as it appears on their official documents.
Know the exact amount you need. The issuer will draw the check for that amount, and you cannot change it after it's printed. If you're unsure, ask the recipient to confirm the amount in writing before you go. Bring slightly more cash than the check amount to cover fees, since you'll pay the issuer upfront.
Comparing cost and speed across your options
| Option | Cost | Speed | Requires Membership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit union | $5–$15 flat fee | Same-day or 1 business day | Yes |
| Check-cashing store | 1–3% of amount or $10–$25 flat | 15–30 minutes | No |
| Western Union / MoneyGram | $10–$30 plus small percentage | 1 business day (sometimes same-day) | No |
If you have a credit union membership, use it—the fee is lowest and the check is ready quickly. If you need the check today and don't have a credit union, a check-cashing store is fastest but most expensive. Money transfer services split the difference and are widely available, making them a middle ground if you have time to wait one business day.
What to do if the recipient won't accept your cashier's check
A legitimate cashier's check drawn on the issuer's own account should be accepted anywhere a personal check is accepted. If a recipient refuses it, ask why. Some businesses only accept checks drawn on major banks, though this is rare. If that's the case, you may need to find another payment method or ask the recipient if they'll accept a money order instead (which works similarly but through the postal service).
Verify the check is printed correctly before you leave the issuer: the amount matches what you requested, the payee name is spelled correctly, and the issuer's name and account number appear on the check. If something is wrong, ask them to void it and issue a new one immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check if I don't have a valid ID?
No. All three options—credit unions, check-cashing stores, and money transfer services—require a valid government-issued ID to prevent fraud. A driver's license, passport, or state ID will work. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain it first.
What if I don't know the exact amount yet?
Contact the recipient and ask them to confirm the amount in writing or email before you go. The check amount cannot be changed after it's printed, so getting it right the first time matters. If the amount changes, you'll have to void the check and pay for a new one.
How long does a cashier's check take to clear?
A cashier's check typically clears within one to two business days because it's drawn on the issuer's account, not yours. The recipient's bank may hold it slightly longer if it's a large amount or an unfamiliar issuer, but it should clear faster than a personal check.
Can I cancel a cashier's check after it's issued?
Yes, but it's complicated. You'll need to contact the issuer with the check number and amount. They may require a written request and proof that the check was lost or stolen. Some charge a fee to cancel and reissue. It's easier to get the amount right the first time.
Is a money order the same as a cashier's check?
No. A money order is issued by the postal service or check-cashing stores and is typically used for smaller amounts (usually capped at $1,000). A cashier's check is issued by banks, credit unions, and money transfer services and can be for any amount. Both are safer than personal checks, but a cashier's check carries more weight for large transactions.