Getting a Cashier's Check Without a Bank Account

Where to get a cashier's check if you don't have a bank account

You can get a cashier's check from a credit union, a check-cashing service, or a money transfer business like MoneyGram or Western Union. Not all of these places issue them — some only cash checks — so you need to call ahead or ask in person before you go. Credit unions are often the cheapest option if you can join one. Check-cashing services and money transfer businesses charge higher fees but don't require membership or a bank account.

The process is the same at most places: you bring cash or a debit card, tell them the amount and who the check should be made out to, and they print and sign it on the spot. You'll need to show a government-issued ID. Some places will also accept a utility bill or lease as proof of address. The whole thing usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Credit unions often charge $5 to $15 for a cashier's check and may let you join even without a bank account, making them cheaper than other options.
• Check-cashing services and money transfer businesses charge $5 to $25 per check but don't require membership and are open longer hours than banks.
• You'll need a government-issued ID and cash or a debit card to pay for the check plus the fee.
• Call ahead to confirm the place issues cashier's checks, because some check-cashing services only cash existing checks rather than issuing new ones.

Credit unions and how to join without a bank account

A credit union is a member-owned financial institution that often charges less than banks for services like cashier's checks. Most credit unions charge between $5 and $15 per check. To use a credit union, you have to become a member, which usually means opening a savings account with a small deposit — often $5 to $25.

You don't need an existing bank account to join a credit union. You can walk in with your ID and cash, open a savings account on the spot, and then request a cashier's check in the same visit. Some credit unions let you join online, though you may still need to visit a branch to pick up the check itself.

To find a credit union near you, use the CO-OP Network locator or the Alliant Credit Union locator on their websites. Search by your zip code. Call the branch before you go to confirm they issue cashier's checks and ask what documents you'll need to open a membership account.

Check-cashing services and their fees

A check-cashing service is a storefront business that cashes checks and also issues cashier's checks. They don't require membership or a bank account. Fees typically range from $5 to $25 per cashier's check, depending on the amount and the location. Larger checks cost more to issue.

Check-cashing services are usually open longer than banks — many stay open until 8 or 9 p.m. and some are open on Sundays. You bring cash or a debit card, your ID, and tell them the payee name and amount. They print the check, you sign it, and you leave with it in hand.

The downside is the fee. A $25 fee on a $500 check is 5 percent of the amount, which is steep. If you need multiple cashier's checks, a credit union membership might save you money even with the small deposit required to open it.

Money transfer services like MoneyGram and Western Union

MoneyGram and Western Union are money transfer businesses with thousands of locations in grocery stores, pharmacies, and standalone shops. Both issue cashier's checks without requiring a bank account or membership. Fees are typically $5 to $15 per check, though they vary by location and amount.

The process is quick: you walk in, give them the payee name and amount, show your ID, and pay in cash or with a debit card. They print the check on the spot. Both services have location finders on their websites where you can search by zip code and see which nearby locations issue cashier's checks — not all of them do, so confirm before you go.

MoneyGram and Western Union are useful if you need a check outside normal business hours, since many of their locations are in 24-hour stores. The trade-off is that fees can be higher than a credit union, and the check is printed by a third-party vendor rather than a bank or credit union, which some payees may question (though it's still a valid cashier's check).

What you need to bring and what to expect

Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some places also ask for a second form of ID or proof of address, like a utility bill, lease, or recent mail with your name and address on it. Call ahead to ask what the specific location requires.

Bring cash or a debit card to pay for the check and the fee. Most places don't accept credit cards for this service. Know the exact amount you need the check for and the full name of the person or business it should be made out to. Spell the payee name correctly — you can't change it once the check is printed.

The entire transaction usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. The check is ready to use when ready. You can deposit it, mail it, or hand it to the payee the same day.

Comparing fees and when each option makes sense

If you need one cashier's check, a check-cashing service or money transfer business is usually the fastest and simplest route. You walk in without an account, pay the fee, and leave. Fees are $5 to $25 depending on the amount and location.

If you need multiple checks or think you might need them again in the future, a credit union membership often pays for itself. A $10 membership deposit plus a $5 fee per check is cheaper than paying $15 to $25 per check at a check-cashing service. Credit unions also offer other services like savings accounts and loans, so membership has value beyond just cashier's checks.

If you need a check outside business hours — early morning, late evening, or Sunday — MoneyGram or Western Union locations in 24-hour stores are your only option. Banks and credit unions have limited hours, and check-cashing services vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You bring cash or a debit card, your ID, and tell the issuer the payee name and amount. The check will be made out to whoever you name as the payee. You don't need the payee's permission or ID.

What if I don't have a government-issued ID?

Most places will not issue a cashier's check without a photo ID. If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV. Some check-cashing services may accept other forms of ID — call ahead to ask what they accept.

Is a cashier's check from a check-cashing service as good as one from a bank?

A cashier's check from a check-cashing service is valid and widely accepted. Some payees may question it because it's not from a traditional bank, but it's a legitimate instrument. If you're concerned, ask the payee in advance whether they accept cashier's checks from check-cashing services.

How long does a cashier's check take to clear?

A cashier's check typically clears within one to three business days, depending on the bank receiving it. Some banks clear them the same day. The issuer (credit union, check-cashing service, or money transfer business) doesn't affect clearing time — the receiving bank does.

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

Yes, but it's complicated. You have to contact the issuer and request a stop payment, which usually costs $15 to $30. The issuer will ask for the check number, amount, and payee name. If the check hasn't been cashed, they can stop it and issue a refund. If it's already been cashed, they can't reverse it.