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

Banks and credit unions are your main sources for cashier's checks

Most people get a cashier's check from their own bank or credit union, where they already have an account. You walk in with cash or a debit card, tell the teller you need a cashier's check, and they issue one on the spot — usually within minutes. The bank draws the check against its own account rather than yours, which is why the recipient trusts it more than a personal check.

If you don't have an account at a bank or credit union, you can still get a cashier's check from one, though some institutions charge a higher fee or require you to open an account first. Call ahead to ask about their policy and what identification you'll need to bring.

Key Takeaways

• Your own bank or credit union is the fastest and cheapest place to get a cashier's check, usually costing $5 to $15 per check.
• You can get a cashier's check from a bank or credit union where you don't have an account, but fees may be higher and some require advance notice.
• Money transfer services like MoneyGram and Western Union offer cashier's checks at some locations, though fees are typically higher than banks.
• Some check-cashing stores and grocery stores with financial services counters issue cashier's checks, but availability and fees vary widely by location.
• Online banks may not issue cashier's checks in person, so you'll need to request one by mail or visit a partner bank branch.

What to expect when you order a cashier's check at a bank

When you arrive at your bank, bring your ID and either cash or your debit card. Tell the teller the amount you need and who the check should be made out to — you'll need the recipient's exact name. The teller will ask you to sign the check and may ask what it's for, though they're not required to tell you why.

Most banks issue cashier's checks when ready if you're there in person during business hours. Some banks allow you to order one over the phone or online and pick it up later, or have it mailed to you. If you order by phone or online, expect to wait one to three business days. Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per check, though some banks charge more.

Getting a cashier's check from a bank where you don't have an account

You can walk into any bank and request a cashier's check even if you've never done business there. Bring cash and your ID. The teller will process it the same way they would for a customer, though the bank may charge a higher fee — sometimes $10 to $25 — since you're not an account holder.

Some banks require advance notice if you don't have an account, so calling ahead is wise. A few banks will refuse to issue one to non-customers, though this is less common. If the bank turns you down, try a credit union instead — they're often more flexible about serving non-members for this service.

Money transfer services and check-cashing stores

MoneyGram and Western Union both offer cashier's checks at many of their locations, though not all branches carry them. Fees are usually higher than banks — often $15 to $30 per check — and you may need to wait a day or two for the check to be issued. These services are useful if you need a cashier's check outside normal bank hours or don't have access to a bank nearby.

Check-cashing stores and some grocery stores with financial services counters (like Walmart or Kroger) may also issue cashier's checks. Availability and fees vary widely, so call first to confirm they offer them and what they charge. These locations are often open longer hours than banks, which can be helpful if you need one in the evening or on a weekend.

Online banks and getting a cashier's check by mail

If your bank is online-only, you typically cannot walk into a branch and get a cashier's check in person. Instead, you can request one by phone or through your online account, and the bank will mail it to you. This usually takes five to ten business days, which is much slower than getting one in person.

Some online banks partner with physical bank branches where you can pick up a cashier's check. Ask your bank whether they have this option and which branches near you participate. If they don't, you may need to visit a different bank or credit union in person to get one quickly.

What information you need before you go

Before you visit a bank or other location, have the following ready: the exact amount of the check, the recipient's full name spelled correctly, and your ID. If you're ordering by phone or online, you'll also need to provide your account number (if you're a customer) or proof that you can pay for the check.

Some banks ask what the check is for, but you're not required to say. If you're unsure whether a bank will issue a cashier's check to you, call their customer service line first. They can tell you their policy, what fees they charge, and how long it will take.

Comparing costs and speed across different sources

Source	Typical Fee	Speed (in person)	Speed (by mail)
Your own bank	$5–$15	Same day	1–3 business days
Bank (non-customer)	$10–$25	Same day	Not typically available
Credit union	$5–$15	Same day	1–3 business days
MoneyGram/Western Union	$15–$30	1–2 days	3–5 business days
Check-cashing store	$10–$25	Same day (varies)	Not typically available
Online bank (by mail)	$5–$15	Not available	5–10 business days

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check on a weekend or after hours?

Most banks are closed on weekends and evenings, so you cannot get a cashier's check in person outside business hours. Check-cashing stores, MoneyGram, and Western Union locations often have longer hours and may be open on weekends. Call ahead to confirm they issue cashier's checks and what their hours are.

Do I need to have money in my account to get a cashier's check?

If you're a customer, the bank will deduct the amount from your account. If you don't have an account or don't have enough money in it, you can pay with cash. Non-customers must pay in cash or with a debit card at the time of the request.

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

If you notice an error before you leave the bank, tell the teller when ready and they can issue a new one. Once you leave, you cannot change a cashier's check — it's drawn on the bank's account, not yours. If the recipient hasn't cashed it yet, you may be able to request a refund or replacement from the bank, though some charge a fee.

How much does a cashier's check cost?

Fees range from $5 to $30 depending on where you get it. Your own bank or credit union is usually cheapest at $5 to $15. Non-customers, check-cashing stores, and money transfer services typically charge $10 to $30 per check.

Can I get a cashier's check for someone else?

Yes, you can request a cashier's check made out to anyone. You'll need to provide their full name spelled correctly. The recipient doesn't need to be present, and you don't need their permission — the bank only cares that you're paying for it.