Understanding The Cost Of Checks

Quick answer

• The cost of checks varies significantly, from free with some checking accounts to over $30 for custom designs.
• Many banks offer basic checks for free or a small fee, especially as part of premium account packages.
• Online check printers often provide more affordable options than traditional banks, with prices starting around $10-$15 for a box.
• The price depends on the quantity, design complexity, security features, and whether you order from your bank or a third party.
• Consider the total cost, including shipping and any potential fees, when comparing prices.
• If you rarely use checks, digital payment methods are usually more convenient and cost-effective.

Who this is for

• Individuals who frequently write checks for bills, rent, or other payments and want to minimize associated costs.
• Account holders looking to understand the various pricing structures for checks offered by their bank versus third-party vendors.
• Anyone who needs to order new checks and wants to make an informed decision about where and how to purchase them.

What to check first (before you act)

Your banking relationship

Before ordering new checks, review your current checking account agreement. Some banks include a certain number of free checks per year or offer them as a perk for maintaining a minimum balance or using specific account types. Understanding your bank’s policy can save you money.

Your checking account features

Does your bank offer any digital payment alternatives that could replace your need for checks? Many accounts now come with features like Zelle, bill pay services, or even the ability to send paper checks directly from your online banking portal. Explore these options before committing to a physical check order.

Your actual need for checks

Honestly assess how often you truly write and send physical checks. If it’s only once or twice a year, the cost of ordering a box of checks might outweigh the convenience. Consider if alternative payment methods are more practical for your situation.

How much are checks typically priced

General pricing for checks can range from very inexpensive to moderately expensive. Basic, unadorned checks ordered in bulk from a third-party vendor might cost $10 to $20 for a box of 100 or 200. More elaborate designs, personalized touches, or specialty security features can increase this price. Ordering directly from your bank often comes with a higher price tag, sometimes $25 to $40 or more for a standard box, though some banks offer a few free boxes with new accounts.

Step-by-step (simple workflow)

Step 1: Assess your check usage

• What to do: Track how many checks you’ve written in the last six months to a year.
• What “good” looks like: You have a clear understanding of whether you need 25, 50, 100, or more checks per year.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming you need a full box of 100 or 200 checks when you only use a few. Avoid this by actually counting your past usage.

Step 2: Review your bank’s current offer

• What to do: Log in to your online banking or call your bank’s customer service. Ask specifically about the cost of ordering new checks for your account type.
• What “good” looks like: You know the exact price your bank charges for a standard box of checks, including any shipping fees.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Not asking about free check offers or bundled services. Avoid this by being proactive and inquiring about all available options.

Step 3: Explore third-party check printers

• What to do: Search online for reputable third-party check printing companies. Compare prices for basic checks, considering quantity discounts.
• What “good” looks like: You have a list of several options with their starting prices for a comparable number of checks.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Only looking at the base price and forgetting to factor in shipping costs. Always check the total cost, including delivery.

Step 4: Compare check designs and features

• What to do: Note the differences in design complexity, security features (like watermarks or microprinting), and personalization options between your bank and third-party vendors.
• What “good” looks like: You understand that more features and intricate designs will increase the cost.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Choosing the cheapest option without considering if it meets your security needs. Ensure the checks have adequate security features, even if they cost a little more.

Step 5: Consider your account type and benefits

• What to do: Check if your bank offers premium checking accounts that include free checks or heavily discounted rates.
• What “good” looks like: You know if upgrading your account (if beneficial overall) would negate the cost of checks.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Overlooking the potential benefits of a higher-tier account that might offer other perks besides free checks.

Step 6: Calculate total cost per check

• What to do: Divide the total cost (including shipping) of a box of checks by the number of checks in the box.
• What “good” looks like: You have a clear cost-per-check figure for each option you’re considering.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Comparing box prices without considering the number of checks per box. This can lead to paying more per check than necessary.

Step 7: Check for promotions and discounts

• What to do: Look for coupon codes, first-time customer discounts, or bulk order discounts from third-party printers.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve found a way to reduce the overall price of your check order.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Not searching for available discounts, thus paying the full advertised price.

Step 8: Make your purchase decision

• What to do: Based on your usage, bank offers, third-party prices, and desired features, decide where to order your checks from.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve chosen the most cost-effective and practical option for your needs.
• A common mistake and how to avoid it: Procrastinating and running out of checks. Order well in advance of when you’ll need them.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Ordering from bank without comparison	Paying significantly more per check than necessary.	Always compare bank prices with reputable third-party vendors.
Not checking account for free offers	Missing out on free checks or discounts your bank might provide.	Review your checking account terms and conditions or ask your bank directly about check benefits.
Buying more checks than needed	Unnecessary upfront cost and potential for checks to become outdated.	Track your actual check usage over 6-12 months to determine the right quantity.
Ignoring shipping costs	The “cheap” online offer ends up being more expensive than expected.	Always calculate the total cost, including shipping and handling, before making a purchase decision.
Choosing overly elaborate designs	Higher price per box without adding functional value for most users.	Stick to basic designs unless a specific theme is important; focus on security features over aesthetics.
Not considering alternative payment methods	Continuing to pay for checks when digital options are cheaper or free.	Explore your bank’s bill pay, Zelle, or other digital transfer services to see if they can replace your need for physical checks.
Ordering too close to needing them	Rushing the process, potentially leading to errors or higher rush fees.	Order new checks at least 2-3 weeks before you expect to run out to allow for processing and shipping time.
Forgetting to update routing/account numbers	Receiving incorrect checks or having to reorder, incurring extra costs.	Double-check that your routing and account numbers are correct on the order form, especially after opening a new account.
Not verifying third-party vendor legitimacy	Ordering from a scam site, losing money and not receiving checks.	Use well-known, reputable third-party check printers with good customer reviews.
Overlooking security features	Increased risk of check fraud if basic security measures are not present.	Ensure your checks include features like microprinting, security screens, or thermochromic ink.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you write fewer than 10 checks per year, then consider using your bank’s online bill pay service because it’s often free and more convenient than ordering checks.
• If your bank offers free basic checks with your account, then order from your bank because it’s the most cost-effective option.
• If your bank charges a high fee for checks and you write frequently, then compare prices with reputable third-party online check printers because they often offer significant savings.
• If you need specialty checks (e.g., business checks with logos), then research both your bank and specialized business printing services because pricing can vary widely.
• If you prioritize design and customization, then be prepared to pay a premium, and compare these specialized options carefully for value.
• If you are ordering checks for the first time for a new account, then double-check your routing and account numbers to avoid costly reorders.
• If you need checks urgently, then check for expedited shipping options, but be aware that this will increase the overall cost.
• If you are concerned about check fraud, then opt for checks with enhanced security features, even if they cost slightly more, because the peace of mind is valuable.
• If you are ordering a large quantity of checks, then look for bulk discounts from third-party printers because the per-check cost can drop significantly.
• If you receive free checks from your bank but they are not satisfactory, then weigh the cost of ordering elsewhere against the inconvenience of using suboptimal checks.

FAQ

How much do checks usually cost?

The price of checks can vary greatly. Basic checks from third-party printers might start around $10-$20 for a box of 100-200, while custom designs or bank-ordered checks can range from $25-$40 or more for a similar quantity.

Are checks from my bank more expensive than online printers?

Generally, yes. Banks often charge more for checks, as they are a convenience service. Third-party online printers typically offer more competitive pricing due to lower overhead.

Can I get free checks?

Some banks offer a limited number of free checks when you open a new account or as a perk for certain account types. It’s always worth asking your bank if any free check offers are available to you.

What factors influence the price of checks?

The cost depends on the quantity ordered, the complexity of the design, the security features included (like watermarks or special inks), and where you purchase them from (your bank versus a third-party vendor).

How many checks are typically in a box?

A standard box of personal checks usually contains 100 or 200 checks. Business checks might come in different quantities.

Should I worry about security features on my checks?

Yes, especially if you write a significant number of checks. Features like microprinting, security screens, and thermochromic ink make checks harder to counterfeit.

What if I don’t use checks very often?

If you rarely write checks, consider using digital payment methods like your bank’s bill pay service, Zelle, or other money transfer apps, which are often free and more convenient.

How long does it take to receive ordered checks?

Processing and shipping times can vary. It’s generally recommended to order new checks at least two to three weeks before you anticipate needing them to avoid delays.

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

• Detailed comparison of specific third-party check printers (research individual vendors for current pricing and reviews).
• Business check ordering processes and specific requirements (consult business banking resources).
• The legal implications of check fraud and bounced checks (seek legal counsel or financial literacy resources).
• Advanced check security features and their effectiveness (consult security experts or financial advisories).
• International check ordering or banking (refer to international banking services).