Cashier's Check Fees Vary by Bank

Most banks charge between $10 and $15 for a single cashier's check, though some charge as little as $5 and others as much as $20. Credit unions often charge less — sometimes $3 to $8 — and a few banks offer them free to customers who maintain certain account balances or account types. The fee depends entirely on your bank's pricing, not on the amount of money the check is written for.

If you need multiple checks at once, some banks offer a small discount per check. For example, a bank might charge $12 for one check but $10 each if you order five. Ask your bank whether bulk pricing applies before you request them.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard cashier's check fees range from $5 to $20 per check, with $10 to $15 being most common.
  • Credit unions typically charge less than traditional banks for the same service.
  • The fee does not change based on the dollar amount of the check — a $500 check costs the same as a $50,000 check.
  • Some banks waive the fee for customers with premium accounts or high balances.
  • Ordering multiple checks at once may may have access to you for a per-check discount.

How Bank Type Affects the Price

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically charge $10 to $15 per check. Regional banks and smaller community banks may charge slightly less, often in the $7 to $12 range. Credit unions, which are member-owned and often operate on lower margins, frequently charge $3 to $8 per check.

Online banks sometimes charge less than brick-and-mortar banks because they have lower overhead costs. However, you may need to visit a branch in person or mail a request to get a cashier's check from an online bank, which can add time to the process. Call your bank directly to confirm their fee and whether they can issue one at a branch near you.

When Your Bank Waives the Fee

Many banks waive cashier's check fees for customers who meet certain conditions. Common reasons include holding a premium checking account (sometimes called a "gold" or "platinum" account), maintaining a minimum balance in savings, or being a long-term customer. Some banks waive the fee if you order the check in person at a branch rather than by phone or online.

If you have a student account, senior account, or military account, ask whether cashier's checks are free. Your bank may also waive fees during promotional periods. The only way to know is to ask your bank directly — they will not advertise this unless you inquire.

Ordering Multiple Checks at Once

If you need more than one cashier's check, order them together. Some banks charge a flat fee for the first check and a reduced fee for each additional check ordered at the same time. For instance, you might pay $12 for the first check and $8 for each of the next four, bringing your total to $44 instead of $60.

This discount is not may provide — it depends on your bank's policy. Before you request multiple checks, ask whether the bank offers a volume discount. If you need checks on different dates, you can still order them all at once; the bank will hold them until you are ready to use them.

Comparing Cashier's Checks to Other Payment Methods

A cashier's check costs money, but other may provide payment methods may cost more or less depending on your situation. A money order typically costs $1 to $5 and works for smaller amounts, but many recipients do not accept them for large transactions. A wire transfer costs $15 to $30 and moves money when ready, but the recipient must have banking details and the money cannot be stopped once sent. A certified check, which is your own check stamped by the bank, usually costs $5 to $10 and works for many purposes, though it is not as universally accepted as a cashier's check.

If you are paying rent, a deposit on a home, or a large purchase, a cashier's check is usually the expected method and worth the fee. If you are sending a smaller amount to someone you know well, a money order or personal check might be sufficient and cheaper.

What Happens If You Lose or Damage a Cashier's Check

If you lose a cashier's check or it is damaged before you cash it, you will need to request a replacement. Most banks charge a second fee to issue a replacement check — the same fee as the original, usually $10 to $15. Some banks may waive the replacement fee if the check was damaged due to a bank error, but this is not standard.

To get a replacement, contact your bank with the check number and the date it was issued. The bank will place a stop on the original check and issue a new one. This process usually takes a few business days. To avoid this situation, keep the check in a safe place until you are ready to deposit or cash it, and do not fold or write on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I pay the fee even if the check is not cashed?

Yes. You pay the fee when you request the check, not when it is cashed. If the recipient never cashes the check, you still paid the fee. Some banks will refund the fee if you request a cancellation within a short window — usually a few days — so ask when ready if you change your mind.

Can I get a cashier's check without paying a fee?

Yes, if your bank waives the fee for your account type or balance level. Credit unions often charge less or nothing. Call your bank and ask whether you may have access to for a waived fee before you request the check.

Is the fee the same for a $100 check and a $100,000 check?

Yes. The bank charges a flat fee per check regardless of the amount written on it. A $100 check and a $100,000 check from the same bank cost the same.

What if my bank charges more than $15 for a cashier's check?

Some banks do charge more, especially for rush orders or if you request the check by phone. If the fee seems high, compare it to other banks in your area or consider a credit union. You are not required to use your primary bank for a cashier's check if you have an account elsewhere.

Can I negotiate the fee?

Rarely. Banks set cashier's check fees as a standard policy, and they do not usually negotiate on individual transactions. However, if you are a long-time customer or maintain a high balance, you can ask whether the fee can be waived — the worst they can say is no.