Cashier's check fees range from $0 to $15 per check at most banks, though some charge up to $20
The cost of a cashier's check depends on which bank or credit union you use. Most banks charge between $5 and $10 per check. Some banks charge nothing if you maintain a certain account balance or account type. A few charge as much as $15 to $20. Credit unions often charge less than banks — sometimes $0 to $3 per check.
The fee is separate from any balance you need to have in your account. When you order a cashier's check, the bank withdraws the full amount of the check from your account plus the fee. So if you order a $500 cashier's check and the fee is $10, the bank takes $510 from your account.
Fees can vary even within the same bank depending on your account type. A premium checking account might include free cashier's checks, while a basic account charges $8. Some banks waive the fee if you order multiple checks at once, though this is less common.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks charge $5 to $10 per cashier's check, but fees range from $0 to $20 depending on the institution.
- Credit unions typically charge less than banks, often $0 to $3 per check.
- Your account type matters — premium accounts may include free cashier's checks while basic accounts charge a fee.
- The fee is deducted from your account along with the check amount, so you need enough money to cover both.
- Some banks charge extra if you need the check issued the same day or if you order it by phone instead of in person.
How bank type affects what you pay
Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase typically charge $8 to $12 per cashier's check. Regional banks often charge $5 to $8. Credit unions, which are member-owned nonprofits, usually charge $0 to $5 per check. Online banks sometimes charge less because they have lower overhead, though not all online banks issue cashier's checks at all.
If you are not sure what your bank charges, call the branch directly or log into your online banking portal. Many banks list their fee schedules on their websites under "checking account fees" or "service charges." The fee schedule may be a PDF you can read.
When banks charge extra fees on top of the base price
Some banks add a surcharge if you need the check issued on the same day you request it. This rush fee can be $5 to $15 extra. If you order by phone instead of visiting a branch, some banks charge an additional $2 to $5. A few banks charge more if you order a large number of checks at once, though this is uncommon.
International cashier's checks — checks drawn on a U.S. bank but payable in another country — may cost more. Some banks charge $15 to $30 for these because they require additional processing. Not all banks offer international cashier's checks, so you may need to ask.
Comparing costs across account types at the same bank
| Account Type | Typical Cashier's Check Fee | When Fee Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Basic checking | $8–$12 | Every check |
| Premium/Gold checking | $0–$5 | Every check or limited number per month |
| Business checking | $10–$15 | Every check |
| Student checking | $0–$8 | Varies by bank |
| Money market account | $5–$10 | Every check |
Premium accounts often waive cashier's check fees as a benefit of maintaining a higher minimum balance or paying a monthly account fee. For example, a bank might charge $15 per month for a premium checking account but include free cashier's checks. If you order cashier's checks regularly, the premium account may cost less overall.
Business checking accounts usually charge more per check than personal accounts because businesses issue them more frequently. Student accounts sometimes offer free or reduced-fee cashier's checks as an incentive, though this varies widely.
Whether it makes sense to pay for a cashier's check
A cashier's check costs money, but it serves a specific purpose: the bank guarantees the funds are available. For a large payment where the recipient needs proof the money is real — a down payment on a house, a security deposit, a court settlement — a cashier's check is often worth the fee. A personal check carries no may provide; a cashier's check does.
If you are sending a small amount and the recipient trusts you, a personal check or bank transfer may be free or cheaper. If you are sending money across the country and need it to arrive quickly and safely, the $5 to $10 fee for a cashier's check is usually reasonable compared to wire transfer fees, which often run $15 to $30.
How to reduce or avoid cashier's check fees
If you use cashier's checks regularly, switching to a premium account at your bank may save money. Calculate how many checks you order per year, multiply by the per-check fee, and compare that to the monthly fee for a premium account. If you order six checks a year at $10 each ($60 per year), a premium account costing $10 per month ($120 per year) would not save you money. But if you order 20 checks a year, the premium account becomes cheaper.
Credit unions often charge less than banks. If you are not a member of a credit union, you may be able to join one through your employer, your school, or a community organization. Membership is sometimes free or costs a small one-time fee.
Some banks offer a limited number of free cashier's checks per month or per year as part of certain accounts. Ask your bank whether this option exists. You can also ask whether the bank will waive the fee if you order multiple checks at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all banks charge the same fee for cashier's checks?
No. Fees range from $0 to $20 depending on the bank, your account type, and whether you need it the same day. Call your bank or check their website to find out what they charge. Credit unions typically charge less than large national banks.
Can I get a free cashier's check?
Yes, if you have a premium account, a student account, or a credit union membership. Some banks include a limited number of free cashier's checks per month. Ask your bank whether this applies to you.
Is a cashier's check fee worth paying?
It depends on the situation. For large payments where the recipient needs proof the money is may provide, a $5 to $10 fee is usually reasonable. For small amounts, a personal check or bank transfer might be cheaper or free.
What if I need the cashier's check the same day?
Most banks can issue a cashier's check the same day if you visit a branch in person. Some charge an extra $5 to $15 rush fee. Call ahead to confirm the bank can do it and whether a rush fee applies.
Do credit unions charge less than banks?
Usually yes. Credit unions typically charge $0 to $5 per cashier's check, while banks charge $5 to $15. If you are not a member, you may be able to join through your employer or school.