Not every bank will issue a cashier's check, and the ones that do may have requirements you need to meet first

Most banks and credit unions that hold deposit accounts can issue a cashier's check, but not all of them do. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo issue them as a standard service. Many regional and community banks do too. However, some online-only banks, some credit unions, and most check-cashing stores do not have the ability to issue them at all — they lack the internal systems to create the bank's own certified check.

Even if your bank offers cashier's checks, you typically need to be a customer with an account there. A few banks will issue one to a non-customer if you pay a higher fee and bring cash, but this is uncommon. You also cannot order a cashier's check online at most banks; you have to visit a branch in person or call and arrange it by phone, then pick it up or have it mailed to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Large national banks and most regional banks issue cashier's checks, but online-only banks and check-cashing stores typically do not.
  • You almost always need to be an account holder at the bank to get a cashier's check issued there.
  • You cannot order a cashier's check online; you must visit a branch, call, or use your bank's app if it offers that feature.
  • Fees range from free to $15 depending on the bank and whether you maintain a minimum balance or have a premium account type.
  • Processing takes anywhere from same-day to several business days depending on the bank and how you request it.

How to learn about your bank issues them

Call your bank's customer service line or visit your local branch and ask directly. The fastest way is often to log into your online banking portal or mobile app — many banks list cashier's check services under "Services" or "Payments" and may even let you request one there. If your bank does not mention it anywhere, it probably does not offer them.

If you do not have a bank account yet and need a cashier's check, call ahead before opening an account. Some banks require you to have the account open for a certain number of days before you can order one, though this is less common now. A few will issue one the same day you open an account if you bring cash to fund it.

What you need to bring or provide

You will need to tell the bank the exact amount of the check, the name of the person or business it should be made out to, and the address where it should be sent (if you are not picking it up). Bring a photo ID. If you are ordering by phone, the bank will verify your identity using information from your account.

Some banks ask you to fill out a form. Others just take the information over the counter or the phone. Have the recipient's name spelled correctly — cashier's checks cannot be altered once issued, so a misspelled name means the check is worthless to the recipient and you will need to order a new one.

Fees and how long it takes

Cashier's check fees vary widely. Many large banks charge $5 to $15 per check. Some waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. Credit unions often charge less or nothing at all. A few banks charge nothing for any customer.

Timing depends on how you order. If you walk into a branch and request one in person, many banks can issue it the same day — sometimes within an hour. If you call or order through your app, it may take one to three business days. If you ask for it to be mailed to you, add another three to five business days for postal delivery. Ask your bank for their specific timeline when you request it.

What to do if your bank does not issue them

If your bank does not offer cashier's checks, you have a few options. First, ask whether they offer a certified check instead — this is similar and works for many purposes, though not all. The bank stamps your personal check to certify that the funds are there, but you still sign it yourself.

Second, you can open an account at a bank that does issue cashier's checks, even if you keep your main account elsewhere. Many banks have no monthly fee if you maintain a small balance or set up direct deposit. You can then order the cashier's check from that account.

Third, some credit unions issue cashier's checks to non-members for a fee, though you will need to call ahead to confirm. Fourth, if you need the check urgently and cannot reach a bank, a money order from the post office or a retail store is not the same thing but works for some payments — ask the recipient whether they will accept one.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume you can order a cashier's check online and have it sent to you without visiting a branch. Most banks require you to order in person or by phone. Do not misspell the recipient's name — once issued, the check cannot be corrected. Do not wait until the last minute; if you need it by a certain date, order it at least a week early to account for processing and mailing time.

Do not assume a cashier's check is free. Even if your bank does not charge a fee, confirm this before you order. Do not lose the check or leave it lying around — it is as good as cash to whoever holds it, and the bank will not reissue it without a lengthy process and proof of loss.

Cashier's checks from banks you do not use

You cannot walk into a bank where you do not have an account and ask for a cashier's check. A very small number of banks will issue one to a non-customer if you pay cash and a higher fee — typically $20 to $30 — but you must call ahead and confirm they offer this service. Most do not.

If you are in a situation where you need a cashier's check from a specific bank (for example, because a seller insists on it), your only option is to open an account there first. This takes 15 to 30 minutes and usually requires no minimum deposit, though some banks ask for $25 to $100 to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check same-day?

Yes, if you visit a branch in person and the bank has the funds available in your account. Most large banks can issue one within an hour. If you order by phone or app, it typically takes one to three business days. Mailed delivery adds another three to five days.

What if I do not have a bank account?

You will need to open one first. Most banks allow you to open an account in 15 to 30 minutes online or at a branch, often with no minimum deposit. Some will issue a cashier's check the same day you open the account if you bring cash to fund it; others require you to wait one to three business days.

Can I get a cashier's check if I do not have enough money in my account?

No. The bank will only issue a cashier's check if your account has at least the amount of the check available. If you do not have the funds, you can deposit cash or transfer money from another account first, then order the check.

Is a certified check the same as a cashier's check?

No. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps to confirm the funds are there. A cashier's check is the bank's own check. Cashier's checks are more find because the bank guarantees payment. Some sellers or institutions require a cashier's check specifically and will not accept a certified check.

What happens if I lose a cashier's check?

Contact your bank when ready. They can place a stop payment on it, but you will likely need to sign an affidavit swearing the check is lost and wait 30 to 90 days before the bank will reissue it. During that time, if someone else tries to cash it, the bank will reject it. Keep cashier's checks in a safe place until you hand them over.