Getting a cashier's check requires a trip to your bank, a form of ID, and either cash or funds in an account

A cashier's check is a check issued by the bank itself, not by you. The bank guarantees the funds because it pulls the money from your account (or takes it in cash) at the moment you request the check. Most banks issue them the same day, though some require advance notice. You'll need to go to a branch in person — you cannot order a cashier's check online or by phone at most institutions.

The process is straightforward: tell the teller you want a cashier's check, provide the name of the person or business it should be made out to, state the amount, show your ID, and pay the fee. Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per check, though some banks charge more. If you're paying with cash, bring exact or close to exact amounts to avoid complications. If you're drawing from your account, the bank will deduct the amount plus the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a bank branch in person with a valid ID to request a cashier's check; most banks cannot issue them remotely.
  • The bank will deduct the check amount plus a fee (usually $5 to $15) from your account or take payment in cash at the time of request.
  • Cashier's checks are typically ready the same day, though some banks may require you to order in advance or wait until the next business day.
  • You need to know the exact payee name and amount before you arrive, because the check cannot be altered once the bank issues it.

What to bring to your bank

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID will work at any bank. Some banks may ask for a second form of ID if you're not a customer there, so check your bank's website or call ahead if you're unsure. If you're paying with cash, bring the full amount of the check plus the fee in bills or coins.

If you're drawing the money from an account you hold at that bank, bring your debit card or account number. You do not need to bring a checkbook or any other documents. Write down the exact name of the payee before you go — the name must be spelled correctly on the check, and most banks will not issue a replacement if you make a mistake in spelling.

How to fill out the request at the teller window

Tell the teller you want a cashier's check and provide three pieces of information: the payee name (the person or business the check is for), the amount, and your ID. The teller will either ask you these questions or hand you a form to fill out. Write the payee name exactly as it should appear on the check — if it's a business, use the legal business name, not a nickname.

Double-check the amount with the teller before they issue the check. Once the bank prints a cashier's check, it cannot be voided or reissued with a different amount or payee. If you realize you made a mistake after the check is printed, you will have to pay another fee to get a replacement check, and the original check will need to be destroyed or returned to the bank.

Timing and same-day availability

Most banks issue cashier's checks on the same day you request them, usually within a few minutes. However, some banks may require advance notice — typically 24 hours — if you want a check for a large amount or if you're not a customer. Call your bank before you go to confirm whether same-day issuance is available.

Banks are closed on weekends and federal holidays, so you cannot get a cashier's check on those days. If you need a check urgently on a Friday afternoon, arrive early enough that the branch is still open. Some banks have extended hours on certain weekdays, so check your local branch's schedule online.

Fees and payment methods

Cashier's check fees vary by bank and sometimes by the amount of the check. Most banks charge between $5 and $15 per check. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. A few banks charge more for checks over a certain amount — for example, $10 for checks under $5,000 and $15 for checks over $5,000.

You can pay the fee with cash, a debit card, or by having it deducted from your account. If you're paying with a credit card, most banks do not accept credit cards for cashier's check fees, so ask the teller what payment methods they take. If you're a non-customer paying in cash, the bank will take the full check amount plus the fee in cash at the time of issuance.

What happens after you receive the check

The cashier's check is yours to keep and deliver to the payee. It is a negotiable instrument, meaning the person or business whose name is on it can deposit it or cash it at their own bank. The check is not tied to your account — once the bank issues it, the funds are committed and the check cannot be stopped or reversed, even if you change your mind.

Keep the check in a safe place until you hand it over. If the check is lost or stolen, contact your bank when ready. Most banks can issue a replacement, but they may require you to sign an indemnity form (a legal document stating that you will repay the bank if the original check is cashed). Some banks charge a fee for replacements, and the process can take several weeks.

Alternatives if your bank cannot issue a cashier's check

If your bank does not offer cashier's checks or you cannot visit a branch, you have other options. A money order serves a similar purpose — it is a prepaid check-like instrument that guarantees funds — and you can buy one at most grocery stores, post offices, and convenience stores without a bank account. Money orders typically cost $1 to $5 and are available during extended hours.

A certified check is another alternative. Your bank certifies that you have sufficient funds in your account and stamps the check as may provide. Certified checks cost less than cashier's checks (usually $2 to $10) but take longer to process — typically one to three business days. Some payees accept certified checks in place of cashier's checks, though cashier's checks are more widely trusted because the bank itself is the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check if I don't have a bank account?

Yes. Bring cash for the full check amount plus the fee, and a valid photo ID. The bank will issue the check without requiring you to have an account. However, some banks may refuse to issue cashier's checks to non-customers, so call ahead to confirm.

What if I make a mistake on the payee name?

Tell the teller before they print the check. If they have already printed it, the check cannot be corrected — you will need to pay another fee for a replacement. The original check must be destroyed or returned to the bank.

Can I get a cashier's check made out to myself?

Yes, though it is uncommon. You can request a cashier's check with your own name as the payee. This is sometimes done to move money between accounts or institutions, though a wire transfer or ACH transfer is usually faster and cheaper.

How long does a cashier's check take to clear?

Cashier's checks typically clear within one to three business days after the payee deposits them, though some banks clear them the same day. The receiving bank determines the clearing time, not the issuing bank. Ask the payee's bank if you need to know exactly when the funds will be available.

What if the cashier's check is lost before I can deliver it?

Contact your bank when ready. Most banks can issue a replacement, but they may require you to sign an indemnity form and wait 30 to 90 days to may support the original check is not cashed. Some banks charge a fee for replacements.