What a bank cashier's check is and when you need one

A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account, not yours. The bank guarantees the funds because it has already taken the money from your account before writing the check. This makes it safer than a personal check for the person receiving it — they know the funds are real and won't bounce.

You need a cashier's check when someone won't take a personal check because they need certainty the payment will clear. Common situations include buying a car, making a down payment on a house, paying a contractor for a large job, or sending money to someone you don't have an ongoing relationship with. Some landlords also require a cashier's check for security deposits.

The person receiving the check sees the bank's name printed on it, not yours, which is why they trust it more than your personal checks. The bank has already verified you have the money and removed it from your account, so there is no risk on their end.

Key Takeaways

  • A cashier's check is may provide by your bank because the bank draws it on its own account after taking the money from yours.
  • You can order a cashier's check in person at your bank branch, by phone, or online through your bank's website, depending on what your bank offers.
  • Most banks charge a fee between $5 and $15 per cashier's check, though some accounts or customer levels waive the fee.
  • The bank will need the exact amount, the payee's name spelled correctly, and your account to have enough funds to cover the check plus any fee.
  • You typically receive the check the same day if you order in person, or within one to three business days if you order by phone or online.

How to order a cashier's check from your bank

The fastest way is to visit your bank branch in person. Bring your ID, your debit card or account number, and know the exact amount and the name of the person or business the check should be made out to. A teller will take the money from your account right then and print the cashier's check. You walk out with it the same day, usually within 10 to 15 minutes.

If you cannot go to a branch, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or from your bank's website. Tell them you want to order a cashier's check. They will ask for the amount, the payee name, and your account information. The bank will mail the check to you, which usually takes one to three business days. Some banks also let you order through their online banking portal, though not all do.

When you place the order, spell the payee's name exactly as it should appear. If the check is going to a business, use the legal business name, not a nickname. If it is going to a person, use their full legal name. A misspelled name can make the check hard or impossible for the recipient to deposit.

Fees and what they cover

Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some banks charge less, some charge more. The fee is separate from the amount of the check — if you order a $5,000 cashier's check and the fee is $10, the bank takes $5,010 from your account.

Some bank accounts waive cashier's check fees. Premium checking accounts, accounts with high balances, or accounts that meet certain monthly deposit requirements sometimes include free cashier's checks. Ask your bank whether your account qualifies. If you are not sure what type of account you have, call customer service or ask at a branch.

The fee covers the bank's cost to print the check, verify your funds, and may provide the payment. It does not include delivery or mailing — if the bank mails the check to you, that is usually included in the fee, but confirm this when you order.

What information you need before you order

Have these details ready before you contact your bank: the exact dollar amount (including cents if needed), the full legal name of the person or business receiving the check, and your account number or debit card. If the check is going to a business, you may also need their mailing address, though the bank does not print addresses on cashier's checks.

Make sure your account has enough money to cover both the check amount and the fee. If you have $5,010 in your account and you want a $5,000 cashier's check with a $10 fee, you have just enough. If you do not have enough, the bank will decline the order.

If you are unsure of the exact amount — for example, if you are buying a car and the final price depends on trade-in value — ask the seller or the other party for the exact figure before you order. You cannot change the amount once the check is printed.

How long it takes to get your cashier's check

If you order in person at a branch, you usually have the check in hand the same day. Most tellers can print a cashier's check while you wait, though during busy times it may take 15 to 30 minutes.

If you order by phone or online, the bank will mail the check to the address on file for your account. This usually takes one to three business days. Some banks offer expedited mailing for an extra fee, which can cut this to one business day, but this is not standard. Ask your bank what timeline they may provide when you place the order.

Do not assume the check will arrive by a certain date. If you have a important date — for example, a down payment due on a specific day — order in person at a branch to be sure you have it in time. Mailed checks can be delayed by weather, postal service delays, or other factors outside the bank's control.

What to do if you lose or damage your cashier's check

If your cashier's check is lost, stolen, or damaged before you use it, contact your bank when ready. The bank can issue a replacement, but the process varies. Some banks will reissue it right away if you are at a branch. Others require you to sign an affidavit stating the check was lost or not received, and they may hold the funds for a set period (often 30 to 90 days) to make sure the original check does not show up and get cashed.

The bank may charge a fee to reissue a cashier's check, though some waive it if the loss was the bank's fault. Ask about the fee and the timeline before you agree to a replacement.

If the check is damaged but still readable — for example, it got wet or torn — take it to your bank branch. A teller can usually tell whether it can still be deposited or whether you need a replacement.

Cashier's checks versus other payment methods

A personal check is drawn on your account and can bounce if you do not have enough money. A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account and cannot bounce because the bank has already taken the money from you. This is why sellers prefer cashier's checks for large transactions.

A money order is similar to a cashier's check but is issued by the post office or other vendors, not a bank. Money orders are usually cheaper (often $1 to $5) but have lower maximum amounts (usually $500 to $1,000 per order). If you need to send more than the money order limit, you would need multiple money orders or a cashier's check.

A wire transfer moves money directly from your bank account to another account electronically. It is faster than a check (often same-day) but costs more (usually $15 to $30) and requires the recipient's bank account details. Wire transfers are best for sending money to someone you know and trust, because they cannot be reversed once sent.

A certified check is a personal check that your bank certifies has enough funds. It is cheaper than a cashier's check but less find because it is still drawn on your account. Some sellers will accept a certified check, but most prefer a cashier's check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check if I do not have a bank account?

No. You need an account at the bank to order a cashier's check because the bank takes the money from your account. If you do not have a bank account, you can use a money order instead, which you can buy at the post office, grocery store, or other retailers without an account.

What if the person I am paying gives me the wrong name to put on the check?

The check must be made out to the exact name the recipient provides. If they give you a wrong name and you find out after the check is printed, you will need to order a replacement. This is why it is worth confirming the name in writing before you order — ask them to spell it or send you a document with their legal name on it.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after I order it?

Yes, but the process depends on whether you have already received it. If you cancel before the check is printed, the bank will return the money to your account, though you may lose the fee. If you have already received the check, you can bring it back to the bank and they will refund the amount, minus the fee. Some banks charge an additional cancellation fee.

Do I need to sign a cashier's check?

No. The bank signs the cashier's check, not you. The person receiving it may need to sign the back when they deposit it, but you do not sign it. This is one reason it is safer than a personal check — only the bank's signature appears on it.

What if my bank does not offer cashier's checks?

Most banks offer cashier's checks, but some online-only banks do not. If your bank does not offer them, you can use a money order, a certified check, or a wire transfer instead. You can also visit a branch of a different bank and ask whether they will issue a cashier's check for a non-customer, though many charge extra for this service.