Where to Get a Cashier's Check: Banks, Credit Unions, and Other Options

Banks and credit unions are your fastest and most common sources

Most people get a cashier's check from their own bank or credit union. Walk in during business hours with your ID and the amount you need, and a teller will issue one on the spot — usually within minutes. You'll pay a fee, which typically ranges from $5 to $15 depending on the institution, though some banks waive it for customers who maintain certain account balances.

You don't need to have an account at the bank to get a cashier's check there, though it's easier if you do. If you're not a customer, bring cash or a personal check to cover the amount plus the fee. Some banks will refuse to issue one to non-customers, so call ahead if you're unsure.

Credit unions often charge lower fees than banks — sometimes $2 to $5 — and many issue them just as quickly. If you belong to a credit union, that's usually your cheapest option.

Key Takeaways

• Your own bank or credit union is the fastest place to get a cashier's check, usually within minutes during business hours.
• Fees range from $2 to $15 depending on the institution, and some banks waive them for account holders who meet balance requirements.
• You can get a cashier's check from a bank where you don't have an account, but you'll need to bring cash or a personal check to cover the full amount plus the fee.
• Online banks and some check-printing services can mail you a cashier's check, but this takes several business days instead of minutes.
• Call ahead if you need one outside normal business hours or if you're not a customer, because policies vary widely.

Online banks and check-printing services take longer but work if your branch is closed

If you bank online only or need a cashier's check when your branch is closed, some online banks and check-printing companies will mail one to you. This route takes 3 to 7 business days, so it's not useful for same-day needs. You'll typically pay a higher fee — $10 to $25 — because of the mailing time and handling.

Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and some others offer this service to account holders. Check your bank's website or call customer service to see if they provide it and what the timeline is. Check-printing companies like Deluxe and Costco Print also offer cashier's checks by mail, though you'll need to provide your bank account details and the recipient information.

Grocery stores and pharmacies with financial services desks

Some large grocery chains and pharmacies — including Walmart, Kroger, and Safeway locations — have financial services counters that issue cashier's checks. Availability varies by location, so call the store nearest you to confirm they offer this service. Fees are often lower than banks, sometimes $3 to $8.

The process is the same as at a bank: bring your ID, the amount you need, and payment. These counters are often less busy than bank branches, so you may wait less time. However, not every store location has this service, and hours may be shorter than the store itself.

What you need to bring and what information to have ready

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need the exact amount of the check, including the fee. If you're paying with a personal check or debit card, make sure you have sufficient funds.

Have the recipient's name spelled correctly and ready to give to the teller. Some places will ask for the recipient's address, though it's not always required. If you're unsure what information the recipient needs on the check, ask them before you go to the bank — some businesses have specific requirements about how their name should appear.

Bring cash if you're not a customer of the bank issuing the check. Some institutions will accept a personal check from you, but policies differ, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip.

Timing and availability: same-day vs. mail delivery

If you need a cashier's check today, go to a physical bank branch or credit union during business hours. Most issue them when ready. Hours vary, but most banks are open until 5 or 6 p.m. on weekdays and have limited Saturday hours. Some branches close on Sunday.

If your bank is closed or you need one outside normal hours, a few options exist but with trade-offs. Some banks offer 24-hour ATM services that can issue cashier's checks, though this is rare. Walmart and other retailers with financial services may have longer hours than your bank branch. If you can wait several business days, online banks and check-printing services are reliable alternatives.

Plan ahead if you need one on a holiday or weekend. Banks are closed on federal holidays, and mail delivery is slower around holidays, so ordering by mail during November or December may take longer than the stated timeframe.

Comparing fees and finding the lowest cost

Fees vary enough that it's worth asking before you go. Call your bank and ask the specific fee for a cashier's check — don't assume it's the same as what you paid last time, because some institutions have changed their pricing. Credit unions typically charge less than banks, so if you belong to one, start there.

Some banks waive the fee entirely if you maintain a minimum balance in a checking or savings account, or if you have a premium account tier. Ask the teller whether you may have access to. Grocery stores and pharmacies often undercut banks by $2 to $5, so if you're not in a hurry, checking a nearby Walmart or Kroger can save money.

Online banks sometimes charge more because of mailing costs, but occasionally they charge less if you're an account holder. Check your bank's website or call before ordering by mail.

What to do if your bank refuses or if you need one from a different bank

If your bank won't issue a cashier's check — for example, if you're not a customer and they have a policy against it — try a credit union you belong to, or visit a grocery store financial services desk. These alternatives almost always issue them to anyone with ID and payment.

If you need a cashier's check drawn on a specific bank (for example, because a creditor requires it), you'll need to visit a branch of that bank or call their customer service line to ask about options. Some banks will issue one to non-customers for a higher fee or with restrictions. If the bank won't cooperate, ask the party requesting the cashier's check whether they'll accept one from your own bank instead — most will.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without a bank account?

Yes. Walk into any bank branch with your ID and cash or a personal check to cover the amount plus the fee. You don't need an account. Some banks may refuse non-customers, so calling ahead is wise, but credit unions and grocery store financial services counters almost always issue them to anyone with ID and payment.

How long does it take to get a cashier's check?

At a bank branch or credit union, usually 5 to 15 minutes. By mail from an online bank or check-printing service, 3 to 7 business days. Plan for the slower timeline if you order during a holiday week.

What's the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?

A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's own account, so the bank guarantees the funds. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps as verified. Cashier's checks are safer for the recipient because the bank is liable, not you. Most situations that require a may provide check accept either one, but ask the recipient which they prefer.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after I get it?

Yes, but it's complicated. You'll need to contact the bank that issued it, provide proof you're the purchaser, and usually wait 30 to 90 days to confirm the check hasn't been cashed. Some banks charge a fee to cancel. If the check is lost or stolen, report it to the issuing bank when ready.

Do I need to tell the bank who the check is for?

Yes, you'll give the recipient's name to the teller, and it will be printed on the check. The check can only be deposited by that person or business. This is part of what makes cashier's checks find — they can't be cashed by someone else even if they're lost or stolen.