Requesting a Check from Your Bank

Quick answer

• You can request a cashier’s check, money order, or a personal check from your bank account.
• Cashier’s checks and money orders are generally more secure for large transactions.
• You’ll typically need to visit a branch or use your bank’s online portal.
• Be prepared to provide identification and account details.
• Fees may apply for these services.
• Understand the difference between a cashier’s check and a personal check.

Who this is for

• Individuals who need to make a payment that requires a guaranteed form of funds.
• People who don’t have checks readily available in their checkbook.
• Those making significant purchases, like a down payment on a car or house, where a personal check might not be accepted.

What to check first (before you act)

Goal and timeline

Before requesting any type of check, clarify why you need it and when it’s due. Are you paying a landlord, a contractor, or making a large purchase? Knowing the recipient and the deadline will help you choose the right type of check and ensure you get it in time. For instance, a same-day cashier’s check might be necessary for an urgent transaction, while a money order could suffice for a less time-sensitive bill.

Current cash flow

Ensure you have sufficient funds in your bank account to cover the amount of the check, plus any associated fees. Banks will deduct the check amount and fees directly from your account. Overdrawing your account can lead to overdraft fees and other complications. Review your recent transactions and current balance to avoid any surprises.

Emergency fund or safety buffer

While not directly related to obtaining a check, having an emergency fund is crucial. If an unexpected expense arises that requires a check, and you don’t have enough liquid cash, you might be tempted to dip into savings meant for emergencies. Ideally, your emergency fund should remain untouched for true unforeseen circumstances.

Debt and interest rates

If the need for a check is related to paying off debt, understand the interest rates on that debt. Prioritizing high-interest debt repayment is often a sound financial strategy. The type of check you get might also be influenced by the urgency of debt repayment; for example, a certified check might be needed for a loan payoff.

Credit impact

While requesting a check itself doesn’t directly impact your credit score, the underlying financial activity might. For instance, if you’re requesting a check to pay off a loan, successfully doing so can improve your credit utilization. Conversely, if you lack funds and can’t secure a check, it could lead to late payment penalties and negatively affect your credit.

Step-by-step: Getting a Check from Your Bank

1. Determine the type of check needed.

• What to do: Decide if you need a cashier’s check, a money order, or simply a personal check from your account.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve chosen the check type best suited for your transaction’s security and acceptance requirements.
• Common mistake: Assuming all checks are the same.
• How to avoid it: Understand that cashier’s checks are drawn on the bank’s funds, money orders are pre-paid, and personal checks are drawn on your account.

2. Gather necessary information and identification.

• What to do: Have your bank account number, valid photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport), and the exact amount for the check ready.
• What “good” looks like: You have all required documents and details to expedite the process.
• Common mistake: Forgetting your ID or account number.
• How to avoid it: Keep your ID in your wallet and have your account number memorized or easily accessible.

3. Visit your bank branch or access online services.

• What to do: Go to a physical branch or log in to your bank’s online banking portal or mobile app.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve successfully navigated to the correct service channel.
• Common mistake: Going to the wrong department or not knowing where to find the service online.
• How to avoid it: Check your bank’s website for “Cashier’s Checks” or “Money Orders” under services, or ask a teller for assistance.

4. Request the check from a bank representative.

• What to do: Inform the teller or customer service representative that you need a cashier’s check or money order. State the exact amount and the payee’s name.
• What “good” looks like: Your request is clearly understood and processed.
• Common mistake: Not clearly stating the payee’s name or the exact amount.
• How to avoid it: Write down the payee’s name and the amount before speaking to the representative.

5. Authorize the withdrawal and fee payment.

• What to do: The bank will debit your account for the check amount plus any service fee. You may need to sign a form or authorize the transaction electronically.
• What “good” looks like: The transaction is completed, and you have a receipt.
• Common mistake: Not realizing there’s a fee.
• How to avoid it: Ask about fees upfront when you request the check.

6. Receive the check.

• What to do: The bank will issue the cashier’s check or money order to you.
• What “good” looks like: You have the physical check in hand.
• Common mistake: Not verifying the payee’s name and amount on the check before leaving.
• How to avoid it: Carefully review the check for accuracy immediately after receiving it.

7. Deliver the check to the payee.

• What to do: Give the check to the person or entity to whom it is owed.
• What “good” looks like: The payee receives the check promptly.
• Common mistake: Mailing a cashier’s check for a local transaction.
• How to avoid it: Consider the fastest and most secure delivery method for your situation.

8. Record the transaction.

• What to do: Note the check number, amount, payee, and date in your check register or personal finance software.
• What “good” looks like: Your records are up-to-date, reflecting the cleared funds.
• Common mistake: Forgetting to record the transaction.
• How to avoid it: Make it a habit to record every check written or obtained immediately.

Common Mistakes (and What Happens If You Ignore Them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
<strong>Not specifying the payee correctly</strong>	The check could be cashed by the wrong person, leading to financial loss.	Always double-check the payee’s name with the recipient before it’s printed on the check.
<strong>Requesting the wrong type of check</strong>	A personal check might be rejected for large transactions; a cashier’s check may be overkill for small ones.	Understand the purpose of cashier’s checks, money orders, and personal checks.
<strong>Forgetting to account for fees</strong>	You might not have enough funds in your account, leading to an overdraft.	Always ask about and confirm the service fee associated with cashier’s checks or money orders.
<strong>Not having sufficient funds</strong>	The bank may refuse to issue the check, or you could incur overdraft fees.	Verify your account balance before visiting the bank or initiating an online request.
<strong>Not bringing proper identification</strong>	The bank cannot verify your identity, and you won’t be able to get the check.	Always carry a valid, government-issued photo ID when conducting financial transactions at a bank.
<strong>Not verifying the check details</strong>	Errors in the amount or payee could cause payment issues or disputes.	Carefully review the issued check for accuracy before leaving the bank.
<strong>Failing to record the transaction</strong>	Your account balance may be inaccurate, leading to potential overdrafts or confusion.	Immediately update your check register or personal finance software after receiving the check.
<strong>Not understanding check validity periods</strong>	An old cashier’s check or money order might be difficult to cash or may have expired.	Be aware that while cashier’s checks generally don’t expire, some money orders do. Check the terms with the issuer.
<strong>Assuming all banks offer the same service</strong>	Some smaller banks or credit unions might have different procedures or fees.	Confirm your bank’s specific policies and fees for issuing cashier’s checks or money orders.
<strong>Not considering the recipient’s needs</strong>	The recipient may not be able to cash or deposit the specific type of check you obtain.	Discuss payment preferences with the recipient if possible, especially for large sums.

Decision Rules: When to Get a Check from Your Bank

• If you need to make a payment that requires guaranteed funds, then consider a cashier’s check or money order because these are secured by the bank’s funds or pre-paid.
• If the payment is for a large amount, like a down payment on a car or house, then a cashier’s check is often preferred by sellers over a personal check because it’s less likely to bounce.
• If you don’t have checks with you or your checkbook is empty, then you can get a personal check from your bank to use as you would a check from your own supply.
• If you need to send money to someone who doesn’t have a bank account or might not accept a personal check, then a money order is a good option because they are widely accepted.
• If you are paying someone for services and want to ensure the payment clears, then a cashier’s check provides that assurance.
• If you are concerned about the security of sending cash through the mail, then a money order or cashier’s check offers a safer alternative.
• If you are unsure about the recipient’s trustworthiness, then a cashier’s check is generally safer than a personal check as the funds are guaranteed by the bank.
• If you need to make a payment immediately and can visit a branch, then a cashier’s check can often be obtained the same day.
• If you are making a payment to a government agency, then check their specific requirements; they may prefer or require cashier’s checks or money orders.
• If you are attempting to pay a bill where a personal check might be accepted but you want an extra layer of security, then a cashier’s check can be used.
• If you are buying a car from a private seller, then a cashier’s check is usually the expected form of payment.
• If you need to send a payment internationally, then a cashier’s check might be an option, but verify with the recipient and your bank about international acceptance and fees.

FAQ

What’s the difference between a cashier’s check and a personal check?

A cashier’s check is drawn on the bank’s own funds, not your personal account. This means the bank guarantees the funds are available. A personal check is drawn directly from your checking account.

Are there fees for getting a check from my bank?

Yes, most banks charge a fee for issuing cashier’s checks and money orders. The amount can vary by bank. Check with your bank for their specific fee schedule.

Can I get a cashier’s check without going to the bank?

Some banks allow you to request a cashier’s check through their online banking portal or mobile app, especially if you’ve used the service before. However, many still require an in-person visit for verification.

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

You can often get a cashier’s check the same day you request it, provided you have sufficient funds and are at a branch during business hours. Online requests may take a few business days.

What if the payee’s name is incorrect on a cashier’s check?

You will likely need to return the incorrect check to the bank to have it reissued with the correct payee’s name. It’s crucial to verify the name before the check is printed.

Can a cashier’s check bounce?

Generally, cashier’s checks are considered very safe and do not bounce like personal checks because the funds are guaranteed by the bank. However, there are rare instances of fraud or bank failure.

What is a money order and how is it different from a cashier’s check?

A money order is a pre-paid payment order, similar to a check, that can be purchased at post offices, convenience stores, and some banks. It’s generally for smaller amounts than cashier’s checks and is pre-paid, meaning you give the money upfront.

How do I get a personal check from my bank if I don’t have my checkbook?

You can usually request a single personal check from your bank teller. They will debit your account for the amount of the check plus a fee and provide you with a check from the bank’s supply.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific fee structures for cashier’s checks or money orders at individual banks. (Next: Contact your bank directly or check their website.)
• International wire transfers or other global payment methods. (Next: Research international money transfer services or your bank’s international banking options.)
• Stop payment orders on checks. (Next: Consult your bank’s policy on stop payments and associated fees.)
• The process for disputing a fraudulent check. (Next: Contact your bank’s fraud department and the relevant consumer protection agencies.)
• Details on obtaining official bank drafts or certified checks for specific legal or financial proceedings. (Next: Consult with legal counsel or financial advisors for guidance on these specialized instruments.)