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, go to the teller window, and ask for one. You'll need to tell the teller the amount, who the check should be made out to, and provide the funds to cover it. Most banks issue them the same day, though some may take a day or two if you request it by mail or phone.

Not all financial institutions offer cashier's checks — some online-only banks don't have tellers or physical locations. If your bank doesn't offer them, you can open an account at a bank that does, or ask if they can refer you to a partner institution. Credit unions almost always issue them, even if you're not a member; some will charge a small fee for non-members.

You don't need to be a long-time customer. Even if you opened your account yesterday, you can request a cashier's check today as long as you have the money in your account to cover it.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your bank's teller window in person with your account information and the funds to cover the check amount.
  • Tell the teller the exact dollar amount, the name of the person or business the check should be made out to, and provide any other details they request.
  • Most banks issue cashier's checks same-day, though some may charge a fee between $5 and $15 depending on the institution.
  • You can request a cashier's check by phone or mail if you can't visit in person, but it will take longer and may have additional requirements.
  • The bank guarantees the funds, so the recipient knows the money is real and won't bounce.

What information you need to provide

Have your account number ready when you go to the teller. You'll also need to know exactly who the check should be made out to — get the full legal name or business name correct, because the recipient may not be able to cash it if the name is wrong or misspelled. Ask the person or business you're paying if you're unsure of the exact name.

Tell the teller the exact dollar amount you want the check for. If you're paying a bill, you might already know this. If you're not sure, ask the recipient before you go to the bank — it's easier to get the amount right the first time than to come back and request a new check.

Some banks will ask for the reason you're getting the check or where it's going. This is routine and helps them prevent fraud. You can straightforward say you're paying for a car, a down payment on a house, tuition, or whatever applies to your situation.

Fees and how much they cost

Most banks charge a fee for a cashier's check, usually between $5 and $15. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain account balance or have a premium account type. A few banks offer them free to all customers. Call your bank ahead of time or ask the teller what the fee is before you request the check.

The fee is separate from the check amount itself. If you want a $5,000 cashier's check and the fee is $10, you'll need $5,010 in your account. The bank deducts the fee from your account when they issue the check.

Credit unions sometimes charge less than banks, or charge nothing at all. If you don't have a credit union account and you're getting multiple cashier's checks, it might be worth opening one to save on fees over time.

How long it takes to get one

If you walk into your bank during business hours, you can usually get a cashier's check within 15 to 30 minutes. The teller will prepare it, a manager or authorized officer will sign it, and you'll walk out with it the same day. Bring your ID and your debit card or account information so the teller can verify who you are.

If you call or email your bank to request one, it typically takes one to three business days. Some banks will mail it to you, which adds another few days depending on your location. If you need it urgently, visiting in person is always faster.

Weekend and holiday hours vary by bank. Some branches are open Saturday mornings, but many are not. Check your bank's hours before you go, or call ahead to make sure a teller will be available.

What happens after you receive it

A cashier's check looks like a regular check but has the bank's name printed prominently and includes a serial number. The bank's routing number and your account number appear on it. Keep it in a safe place until you're ready to hand it over — it's as good as cash once it's issued.

Give the check to the person or business you're paying. They will deposit it into their account or cash it at their bank. The recipient's bank will verify with your bank that the funds are real and may provide. This is why cashier's checks are preferred for large transactions — the recipient knows the money won't bounce.

If you lose the check before you give it away, contact your bank when ready. They can put a stop on it and issue a replacement. You may have to wait a set period (often 30 to 90 days) before the bank will reissue it, to make sure the original check doesn't turn up and get cashed twice.

Getting a cashier's check without visiting the branch

If you can't go to your bank in person, you can call the branch and ask if they'll prepare one over the phone. You'll need to provide your account number, the amount, and the name of the recipient. The bank will hold the check for you to pick up, or they may mail it to your address on file.

Some banks allow you to request a cashier's check through their online banking portal or mobile app. Log in, look for the option to request a check or contact customer service, and follow the prompts. The bank will confirm the details with you and either mail it or ask you to pick it up.

Mailing a cashier's check to you takes longer and carries a small risk — the check could be lost in the mail. If you choose this route, ask the bank to send it via tracked mail or to a find address. Some banks won't mail cashier's checks at all, so ask first.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The bank will only issue a cashier's check if you have the full amount in your account right now. You can't use a line of credit or overdraft protection to cover it. If you're short on funds, deposit the money first, wait for it to clear, and then request the check.

What if I make a mistake on the cashier's check?

If the name or amount is wrong, don't try to fix it yourself. Contact your bank and explain the error. They can put a stop on the check and issue a new one. You'll likely have to pay another fee for the replacement, though some banks waive it if the error was the bank's fault.

Can someone else pick up my cashier's check?

Most banks require the person whose name is on the account to pick it up in person, or they need a signed power of attorney. Call your bank and ask what they allow. Some branches are more flexible than others, especially if you're a long-time customer.

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

No. A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's own account and may provide by the bank. A certified check is your personal check that the bank has verified and stamped as good. Cashier's checks are safer for the recipient because the bank is on the hook, not you.

What if the recipient says they didn't receive the check I mailed?

Contact your bank right away and ask them to put a stop on it. Provide the check number, amount, and date it was issued. Once the stop is in place, the bank can issue a replacement. If the original check was sent via regular mail, the bank may ask you to wait 30 to 90 days before reissuing to make sure it doesn't turn up.