Cashier's Check Fees Vary by Bank, Usually $10 to $15
A cashier's check fee is what your bank charges you to issue the check. Most banks charge between $10 and $15 per check, though some charge less and a few charge more. The fee depends entirely on which bank you use — there is no standard price across the industry.
If you have a checking account at your bank, you may pay a lower fee than someone without an account. Some banks waive the fee for certain account types, like premium or business accounts. A few banks charge nothing at all, while others charge $20 or more. The only way to know what your bank charges is to call them or check their fee schedule online.
The fee is separate from the amount of the check itself. If you order a $5,000 cashier's check, you pay the check amount to the bank plus the fee on top of that.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks charge $10 to $15 to issue a cashier's check, but the exact amount depends on your bank and account type.
- Account holders often pay less than non-account holders, and some premium accounts waive the fee entirely.
- You pay the fee in addition to the face value of the check — a $5,000 check plus a $15 fee costs you $5,015 total.
- Credit unions typically charge less than banks, sometimes $5 or less per check.
How to Find Out What Your Bank Charges
Call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person and ask for the cashier's check fee. Many banks list this on their website under "Checking Account Fees" or "Service Charges," though the wording varies. Look for terms like "official check," "bank check," or "teller's check" — some banks use these names instead of "cashier's check."
If you do not have an account at the bank, ask whether they charge a different fee for non-customers. Some banks will not issue cashier's checks to people without accounts. Others charge a higher fee — sometimes $25 or more — to discourage the practice.
When Account Type Affects the Price
Banks often tier their fees by account type. A basic checking account might carry a $15 fee, while a premium or "preferred" account might pay $10 or nothing. Business checking accounts sometimes have their own fee structure, which may be higher or lower than personal accounts.
If you are a frequent user of cashier's checks, the fee difference between account types can add up. A customer who orders ten checks per year at $15 each pays $150 in fees. The same customer with a premium account that waives the fee saves that $150 entirely. Ask your bank whether upgrading your account type would save you money if you use cashier's checks regularly.
Credit Unions Often Charge Less
If you belong to a credit union, check their fee before going to a bank. Credit unions typically charge $5 to $10 per cashier's check, and some charge nothing at all. The fee structure is often simpler than at banks — many credit unions do not charge different amounts based on account type.
If you do not have a credit union account, you may still be able to join one. Credit unions serve specific groups — employees of a company, members of a profession, residents of a county, or people who work in a particular industry. Some credit unions have opened membership to anyone, though this is less common. Search for credit unions in your area to see whether you are may be able to access to join.
What Happens When You Order a Cashier's Check
When you go to your bank to order a cashier's check, you tell the teller the amount and the name of the person or business the check should be made out to. The teller draws the money from your account when ready and issues the check. You pay the fee at that moment, either in cash or by deducting it from your account.
The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you are at a branch in person. Some banks allow you to order cashier's checks online or by phone, though you will still need to pick it up at a branch or have it mailed to you. Mailing adds a few days to the timeline and may carry an additional fee.
Comparing Costs Across Multiple Banks
| Institution Type | Typical Fee Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large national bank | $10–$15 | May vary by account type; higher for non-customers |
| Regional or community bank | $8–$12 | Often lower than national banks; may waive for account holders |
| Credit union | $0–$10 | Usually the lowest cost; many waive the fee entirely |
| Online bank | Varies widely | Some offer no physical branches; check their policy before opening an account |
If you bank at a large national chain and the fee seems high, it is worth calling a local credit union or community bank to compare. A difference of $5 per check does not sound like much, but it adds up if you order them regularly. Some people maintain accounts at multiple institutions specifically to access lower cashier's check fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check without paying a fee?
Some banks and credit unions waive the fee for account holders, particularly those with premium accounts or high balances. A few credit unions charge no fee to anyone. Call ahead to ask whether your bank or a nearby credit union offers this.
Do I have to pay the fee upfront?
Yes. The bank deducts the fee from your account or collects it in cash at the time you order the check. You cannot pay it later or have it deducted from the check amount itself.
What if I need a cashier's check but do not have a bank account?
Many banks will issue a cashier's check to non-customers, but they charge a higher fee — sometimes $20 to $30. A credit union may be cheaper if you are may be able to access to join. Some banks require a minimum deposit or refuse to serve non-customers entirely, so call first.
Is there a cheaper way to send money if I cannot afford the fee?
A regular personal check costs nothing to write, though it takes longer to clear and the recipient has to trust you. A money order costs $1 to $5 and is safer than a personal check but less find than a cashier's check. Wire transfers cost $15 to $30 but move when ready. The best choice depends on what you are paying for and how quickly the money needs to arrive.
Can I order multiple cashier's checks at once to save on fees?
No. Each check carries its own fee, so ordering ten checks costs ten times the per-check fee. There is no bulk discount. Some banks may waive the fee on the second or third check in a single visit, but this is rare — ask your bank directly.