How to Order New Bank Checks

Quick answer

• Confirm your bank’s ordering process (online, phone, in-branch).
• Gather necessary account and routing numbers.
• Review check design options, including security features.
• Verify shipping address and estimated delivery time.
• Keep a few old checks for reference and immediate use.
• Understand the cost and payment methods accepted.

Who this is for

• Individuals who have recently opened a new checking account.
• Those who have run out of checks or need to reorder.
• People looking to update their check design or add new features.

What to check first (before you act)

• Your Account Information: Ensure you have your correct checking account number and your bank’s routing number readily available. This information is crucial for ordering and is printed on your existing checks.

• Your Bank’s Specific Process: Banks have different methods for ordering checks. Some prefer online orders through their website or app, others may require a phone call, and some might ask you to visit a branch. Knowing your bank’s preferred method will save you time.

• Current Check Stock: Do you have any checks left? If you’re completely out, you may need to use a temporary solution like cashier’s checks or a digital payment method until your new ones arrive.

• Shipping Address: Double-check that the shipping address you provide is accurate and current. Checks are typically mailed, so an incorrect address can lead to significant delays or lost orders.

Step-by-step (how to get bank checks)

1. Locate Your Bank’s Ordering Channel: Visit your bank’s official website, log into your online banking portal, or check your mobile app. You can also call your bank’s customer service line or visit a local branch.

• What “good” looks like: You’ve identified the most convenient and official way to initiate your check order.
• Common mistake: Going to a third-party check printing website without verifying it’s an authorized vendor for your bank. This can lead to higher costs or non-compliant checks.

2. Access the Check Ordering Section: Within your bank’s online platform or through customer service, find the section dedicated to ordering checks. It might be under “Account Services,” “Order Checks,” or a similar menu.

• What “good” looks like: You’re on the correct page or speaking with the right department to begin the ordering process.
• Common mistake: Starting the order without being logged into your secure bank account, potentially exposing sensitive information if you’re on a fake site.

3. Verify Account and Routing Numbers: The system will likely pre-fill your account and routing numbers. Carefully review these to ensure they are accurate for the account you want the checks for.

• What “good” looks like: Your account and routing numbers are correctly displayed and match your existing checks or bank statements.
• Common mistake: Relying solely on pre-filled information without a quick verification. Typos here are costly and can cause bounced checks.

4. Choose Your Check Style: You’ll typically have options for basic checks, checks with enhanced security features, or designer checks. Consider your needs for security and personal preference.

• What “good” looks like: You’ve selected a check style that balances your budget, security needs, and aesthetic preferences.
• Common mistake: Choosing the cheapest option without considering security features, making your checks more vulnerable to fraud.

5. Select Quantity and Starting Number: Decide how many boxes of checks you want to order and, if possible, specify the starting check number. If you don’t specify, the bank will usually assign the next available number.

• What “good” looks like: You’ve chosen a quantity that will last a reasonable time and set a starting number that doesn’t overlap with your old checks.
• Common mistake: Ordering too few checks and needing to reorder sooner than expected, or setting a starting number that’s already been used.

6. Review Personal Information: Confirm your name and address as they should appear on the checks. This is also where you’ll confirm the shipping address for the order.

• What “good” looks like: Your name and the shipping address are accurate and up-to-date.
• Common mistake: Not updating your shipping address if you’ve recently moved, leading to checks being sent to an old location.

7. Check Pricing and Payment: Understand the total cost of your order, including any shipping or handling fees. Confirm how payment will be processed – it’s often deducted directly from your account.

• What “good” looks like: You are aware of the full cost and the payment method before confirming the order.
• Common mistake: Not noticing hidden fees or assuming payment will be handled later, leading to an unexpected deduction.

8. Confirm and Place Your Order: Review all details one last time – account numbers, style, quantity, shipping address, and cost – before submitting your order.

• What “good” looks like: You’ve completed the order and received a confirmation number or email.
• Common mistake: Rushing through the final review and missing a crucial error that could delay or invalidate the order.

9. Note Estimated Delivery Time: Pay attention to the estimated delivery timeframe provided. This can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.

• What “good” looks like: You have a realistic expectation of when your checks will arrive.
• Common mistake: Assuming checks will arrive immediately, leading to frustration and potential issues if you run out before they are delivered.

10. Keep Old Checks for Reference: Until your new checks arrive, keep your old ones handy. They serve as a backup and a reference for your account and routing numbers.

• What “good” looks like: You have a functional way to make payments while awaiting your new checks.
• Common mistake: Discarding all old checks immediately, leaving you without a payment method if the new ones are delayed.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Ordering from unauthorized third parties	Higher costs, checks that don’t meet bank standards, potential for fraud, no recourse if issues arise.	Always order directly through your bank’s official channels or an authorized vendor they recommend.
Incorrect account or routing numbers	Checks will not clear, payments will be rejected, potential for bounced checks and associated fees.	Double-check these numbers against a current bank statement or old check before submitting the order.
Not updating shipping address	Checks sent to an old address, lost checks, significant delays in receiving them, potential for identity theft.	Verify your shipping address in your bank’s system and on the order form before confirming.
Ordering too few checks	Needing to reorder frequently, incurring multiple shipping fees, potential to run out unexpectedly.	Estimate your monthly check usage and order a quantity that will comfortably last 6-12 months.
Ignoring security features	Increased risk of check fraud, altered checks, and unauthorized withdrawals.	Opt for checks with security features like watermarks, microprinting, and security screens.
Not checking the total cost	Unexpected charges, overspending, or dissatisfaction with the final price.	Review the order summary carefully for all fees, including shipping and handling, before finalizing.
Using a starting number that’s already used	Confusion with accounting, potential for duplicate payments, and difficulties tracking transactions.	Ensure the starting number for new checks is sequential to your last used check number or is clearly a new sequence.
Not having backup payment methods	Inability to make payments if checks are lost, delayed, or if you run out before new ones arrive.	Keep a few old checks, use online bill pay, or have a debit card readily available.
Not verifying the order confirmation	Errors in the order go unnoticed until delivery, requiring a costly and time-consuming reorder process.	Save your order confirmation email and compare it against the delivered checks for accuracy.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you are opening a new account, then order checks immediately because you will need them to write payments.
• If you have fewer than 10 checks remaining, then start the reorder process because you don’t want to run out unexpectedly.
• If your bank offers online ordering, then use that method because it’s usually the fastest and most convenient.
• If you are concerned about fraud, then choose checks with advanced security features because they offer better protection.
• If your budget is very tight, then opt for the most basic check design because it will likely be the least expensive.
• If you have moved recently, then verify your shipping address before ordering because checks are mailed.
• If you are unsure about your account or routing number, then check your most recent bank statement because it will have the correct numbers printed on it.
• If you need checks urgently, then inquire about expedited shipping options because standard delivery can take time.
• If you want to track your spending precisely, then consider the starting number of your new checks to ensure continuity with your records.
• If you are ordering checks for a business, then ensure all necessary business information is correctly printed on the checks because it’s a legal requirement.
• If you receive your checks and they are incorrect, then contact your bank’s customer service immediately because they can arrange for a correction or reorder.
• If you are ordering checks for the first time for a specific account, then make sure you have the correct account number from your bank.

FAQ

How long does it take to get new bank checks?

Delivery times vary, but typically range from 5 to 15 business days after your order is processed. Expedited shipping options may be available for an additional fee.

Can I order checks from any website?

It’s best to order directly through your bank’s official website or app, or through a vendor they specifically recommend. Unofficial sites may charge more or provide substandard checks.

What information do I need to order checks?

You’ll need your bank’s routing number, your checking account number, and your name and address as you want them to appear on the checks.

Are there different types of checks?

Yes, banks offer basic checks, checks with enhanced security features (like watermarks or microprinting), and sometimes customizable or designer checks.

How much do bank checks cost?

The cost varies significantly based on the design, quantity, and security features. Basic checks can be relatively inexpensive, while custom or high-security options will cost more.

What if I run out of checks before my new ones arrive?

You can use online bill pay, your debit card, or visit your bank to get cashier’s checks or money orders for urgent payments.

Can I change the starting number of my new checks?

Often, yes. You can usually specify the starting number when you place your order to ensure it follows sequentially from your last set of checks.

What should I do with old checks?

Once you’ve confirmed your new checks are correct and in use, shred old checks securely to protect your account information.

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

• Opening a new bank account: This guide assumes you already have an account.
• Advanced check fraud detection: For detailed information on identifying counterfeit checks, consult your bank or financial security resources.
• Business account check ordering specifics: While general principles apply, business accounts may have additional requirements or ordering processes.
• International banking and check services: This information is specific to U.S. banking.