Where to get a cashier's check

You get a cashier's check from a bank or credit union where you have an account. Walk into a branch during business hours, call ahead to confirm they issue them same-day, or ask whether your bank lets you order one online. Most banks charge a small fee — typically $5 to $15 per check, though some accounts waive the fee entirely.

Not all financial institutions issue cashier's checks. Some online-only banks do not have the infrastructure to print them. If your bank does not offer them, you can open a basic checking account at a local bank or credit union just to get the check, though this takes longer than using an existing account.

Key Takeaways

  • You need an account at the bank or credit union issuing the check, and you must have enough money in that account to cover the check amount.
  • Bring a photo ID and the exact payee name and amount you need; the bank will not issue a blank cashier's check.
  • Most banks issue cashier's checks same-day at a branch, though some may take one business day if ordered online.
  • The bank deducts the check amount plus any fee from your account when ready, even though the recipient may not cash it for weeks.

What you need to bring to the bank

Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will verify your identity before issuing the check.

You also need to know the exact name of the person or business the check is payable to. Cashier's checks cannot be issued blank or to "cash" — the payee name must be printed on the check at the time of issue. If you are unsure of the exact legal name, confirm it before you go to the bank, because the bank will not change the payee name after printing.

Tell the teller the exact dollar amount you need. The bank will print that amount on the check; you cannot write in a different amount later.

The step-by-step process at the branch

Go to your bank's customer service desk or teller window and say you need a cashier's check. Provide your photo ID. Tell the teller the payee name and the dollar amount.

The teller will confirm you have enough money in your account to cover both the check amount and the fee. They will then deduct that total from your account when ready and print the check. The check is ready to take with you in most cases within a few minutes.

Ask the teller for a receipt showing the transaction. Keep this receipt until the payee confirms they have cashed the check, in case there is ever a question about whether the payment went through.

Fees and account requirements

Banks typically charge between $5 and $15 per cashier's check. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. A few banks charge no fee at all. Call your bank or check their website to learn what they charge.

You must have an account at the bank issuing the check, and your account balance must be at least as high as the check amount plus the fee. If you do not have enough money in the account, the bank will not issue the check. Some banks also require that your account be in good standing — meaning no recent overdrafts or fraud flags.

How long a cashier's check takes

At a branch in person, most banks issue a cashier's check the same day. You walk in, provide your information, and leave with the check within minutes to an hour depending on how busy the branch is.

If you order online through your bank's website or app, the timeline varies. Some banks mail the check to you, which takes three to seven business days. Others let you pick it up at a branch the next business day. Check your bank's website or call to confirm their process before you order.

Tracking and proof of payment

Keep the receipt the teller gives you. It shows the date, amount, payee name, and a confirmation number. This is your proof that you obtained the check and that the bank deducted the money from your account.

If the payee says they never received the check, you can contact your bank with the receipt and confirmation number. The bank can research whether the check was cashed and, if not, may issue a replacement or refund. This process typically takes one to two weeks.

Do not assume the check has been cashed just because you received it. The payee may hold it for days or weeks before depositing it. If you need to know whether payment went through, ask the payee directly or wait to see the deduction appear in your bank statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without going to the bank in person?

Many banks let you order online or by phone, but you typically still need to pick it up at a branch or wait for it to be mailed. A few banks mail cashier's checks directly to you or the payee, though this takes longer. Call your bank to ask what remote options they offer.

What if I make a mistake on the payee name?

Once the check is printed, the bank cannot change it. You would need to ask the bank to cancel it and issue a new one, which may involve an additional fee. Always confirm the payee name before the teller prints the check.

Can someone else pick up my cashier's check?

Most banks require the account holder to pick up the check in person with a photo ID. Some banks may allow a family member or authorized representative to pick it up if you sign a power of attorney or authorization form, but policies vary. Ask your bank before you order.

How long is a cashier's check valid?

Cashier's checks do not expire, but banks may stop honoring them after a certain period — typically six months to a year. If the payee does not cash it within that window, contact your bank about getting a replacement check or a refund.

What if the payee loses the check?

The payee can contact your bank with the check number and amount to report it lost. The bank may issue a replacement, but this process can take several weeks and may require a fee. This is why keeping your receipt is important — it proves you paid.