Understanding Bank Check Types and When You Might Need Them
Bank checks remain a common payment method, even in an increasingly digital world. A check is a written order that directs your bank to pay a specific amount of money to a person or business you name. When you order checks from your bank, you're requesting printed documents that bear your account information and allow you to make payments without using cash or a debit card.
Free Guide to Understanding Your IRS Tax Refund →
Several situations call for having checks on hand. Many landlords still prefer receiving rent payments by check because it creates a clear paper trail. Utility companies, insurance providers, and government agencies may accept checks as payment methods. Some service providers—including contractors, veterinarians, and repair services—may offer discounts for check payments. Charitable donations often come in check form. Older family members or clients may prefer working with checks over digital payments.
Personal checks differ from cashier's checks and traveler's checks. A personal check draws directly from your checking account and requires your signature. A cashier's check is issued by the bank itself using the bank's funds, making it more secure for large transactions. Traveler's checks, though less common now, were historically used for safe travel payments.
The process of ordering checks involves contacting your bank and specifying how many checks you want, what design you prefer, and confirming your account details. Most banks offer basic check designs at no charge or for a small fee. Premium designs with logos or custom artwork typically cost more. Banks usually deliver checks within 7-14 business days, though expedited options may be available for an additional fee.
Practical takeaway: Before ordering checks, consider whether you actually need them. If you rarely pay by check, ordering a small quantity saves money. If you do use checks regularly, ordering in bulk is more cost-effective per check.
How to Order Checks Through Your Bank
Ordering checks through your bank is straightforward and involves several standard steps. First, you'll need to be a customer with an active checking account at the bank. Most banks allow customers to order checks through multiple channels: online through your account portal, by phone with a customer service representative, by mail using an order form, or in person at a branch.
Learn How US Citizens Open Australian Bank Accounts →
The online method is typically the fastest and most convenient. Log into your banking portal, locate the "order checks" or "check services" section, and follow the prompts. You'll confirm your account number, routing number, and personal information. You'll select the quantity (usually in sets of 25, 50, or 100), choose a design, and review pricing. Some banks charge nothing for standard checks, while others charge $10-$25 per box depending on design and quantity.
When ordering by phone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or bank statement. A representative will verify your identity and walk you through the ordering process. This method takes about 10-15 minutes. Ordering by mail requires requesting a check order form from your bank, completing it, and mailing it back. This process typically takes longer—sometimes several weeks.
When you place an order, you'll need to provide or confirm several details: your full legal name (as it appears on the account), your account number, your routing number, your mailing address, and the number of checks you want. You'll also select a design. Standard designs are usually free or cost $5-$10 per box. Designer checks, which include images, logos, or special themes, typically cost $20-$40 or more per box.
Most banks deliver checks to the address on file within 7-14 business days. Some banks offer rush delivery for an additional fee ($15-$25), getting checks to you in 3-5 business days. A few banks offer overnight delivery for premium prices. Once your checks arrive, inspect them for accuracy before using them. Verify that your name, account number, and routing number are correct.
Practical takeaway: Order checks during a time when you're not in immediate need, so delays don't catch you without checks when you need them. Keep track of when you ordered so you know when to expect delivery.
Comparing Check Ordering Options and Pricing
While your bank is the traditional place to order checks, several other options exist, and comparing them can help you understand pricing differences. Banks themselves vary in what they charge. Some community banks and credit unions offer free checks to members. Larger national banks may charge $10-$30 per box. Online banks sometimes offer checks free or at reduced cost since they have lower overhead expenses.
Learn About Closing Your Bank of America Account →
Third-party check printing companies represent an alternative to bank-ordered checks. Companies like Deluxe, Costco, Walmart, and various online printers can print checks for your account. These companies often undercut bank prices significantly. You might pay $5-$15 per box for standard checks from a third-party printer, compared to $15-$30 from a bank. However, quality and delivery time vary. Some third-party printers are highly reliable; others have faced complaints about print quality or delivery delays.
When comparing options, consider several factors: total cost per check (since prices depend on quantity ordered), design selection available, delivery speed, security features, and customer reviews. A single check from a box of 100 might cost $0.10-$0.30 depending on where you order. Over time, this difference matters. Ordering 500 checks at $0.10 each costs $50, while ordering the same quantity at $0.30 each costs $150.
Some people split the difference by ordering basic checks from a bank initially, then ordering larger quantities from a third-party printer once they confirm the printer's quality and reliability. Security is another consideration. Bank-ordered checks often include security features like watermarks, security fibers, and microprinting that make them harder to counterfeit. Third-party printers sometimes offer these same features, but not always, so this matters if you're paying bills or making important transactions.
Bulk ordering saves money but requires storage space. Ordering 200 checks at once might cost less per check than ordering 50, but what if you move, change jobs, or rarely use checks? Calculate realistically how many checks you'll actually use before ordering large quantities. Many people find that ordering 50-100 checks annually strikes a balance between cost savings and avoiding waste.
Practical takeaway: Request pricing information from your bank and at least one third-party printer. Calculate the total cost for the quantity you actually need, not just the per-check price. Factor in delivery time—if you need checks within days, your bank might be your only option even if it costs more.
Check Design Options and Customization Choices
Bank checks come in multiple designs, from basic to elaborate. Understanding your options helps you choose checks that work for your needs and budget. Standard checks feature a simple layout with your name, address, account number, and routing number printed in black ink on white or light-colored stock. These are the least expensive option and are perfectly functional for everyday use.
Get Your Free PHH Mortgage Customer Service Guide →
Designer checks add visual interest through images, patterns, or themes. Common designs include nature scenes (mountains, forests, water), seasonal themes, sports team logos, patriotic imagery, or hobby-related pictures. A single design choice might add $5-$15 to the cost of a box. Some banks limit design choices to their own catalog; third-party printers often offer hundreds of designs.
Custom checks allow you to add personal touches like your business logo, a photo, or specific branding. Business owners often order checks with their company name, logo, and contact information. This costs more—typically $30-$50 per box or higher—but presents a professional appearance. If you're self-employed or run a small business, branded checks can reinforce your business identity.
Security features vary by check type and printer. Standard bank checks often include security elements like a watermark (visible when held to light), security fibers woven into the paper, or microprinting (tiny text visible only under magnification). These features help prevent counterfeiting and fraud. If you're concerned about check fraud, asking whether checks include these features is worthwhile. Most bank-ordered checks do include at least some security features.
Color is another choice. While most checks are white, some come in pale blue, beige, or light gray. Some people find colored checks easier to track in records, though color doesn't affect function. The choice is purely personal preference. Check size is standardized in the United States (generally 6 inches by 2.75 inches), so this isn't a choice variable.