Not every bank will issue a cashier's check, and the ones that do have different rules about who can get one

Most banks and credit unions that hold checking accounts will issue a cashier's check for their own customers. However, some banks have stopped offering them altogether, and a few will issue one to non-customers for a higher fee. The fastest way to learn about your bank does is to call the branch directly or log into your online banking portal — many banks now show cashier's check fees and availability in their fee schedule or service menu.

If your bank doesn't offer cashier's checks, you have alternatives: credit unions often issue them to members, some check-cashing services will issue them (though at a markup), and a few banks will issue one to a non-customer if you pay a premium fee. The catch is that non-customer fees can run $10 to $20 or more, while customer fees are usually $5 to $10.

Key Takeaways

  • Your own bank or credit union is the cheapest and fastest source for a cashier's check if you hold an account there.
  • Some banks have discontinued cashier's checks entirely, so you need to confirm your bank still offers them before you go in.
  • Non-customers can sometimes get a cashier's check from a bank, but the fee is typically double or triple the customer fee.
  • Credit unions often issue cashier's checks to members at lower fees than banks charge non-members.
  • You will need the payee's exact name and the amount in advance, and the check is usually ready the same day.

What banks typically require to issue a cashier's check

If you have an account at the bank, bring your ID and the exact payee name and amount. The teller will draw the funds from your account when ready and issue the check, which is may provide by the bank itself rather than by your personal balance. This is why cashier's checks are used for large purchases — the recipient knows the money is already set aside.

If you don't have an account, the bank will usually ask for a government-issued ID and may require you to pay the fee in cash or debit card. Some banks will not issue one to a non-customer at all, so call ahead. A few large banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo will issue to non-customers, but you should confirm the current policy with your local branch, as policies change.

Banks that have stopped issuing cashier's checks

Several major banks have discontinued cashier's checks in recent years, including Chase and Citibank at most locations. This is partly because fewer people use them and partly because wire transfers and ACH transfers have become faster and cheaper for banks to process. If your bank is one of these, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Before you assume your bank has stopped, check their website or call your branch directly. Some banks still issue them but only at certain locations, or only to customers who meet minimum balance requirements. The fee schedule on the bank's website will usually tell you whether they're available.

Credit unions as an alternative source

Credit unions tend to issue cashier's checks more readily than banks do, and often at lower fees. If you're a member of a credit union, that's usually your best option. Fees typically range from $3 to $8, compared to $5 to $15 at banks. Some credit unions will also issue one to a non-member for a slightly higher fee, though this varies by institution.

To find a credit union near you, search the CO-OP Network or Alliant Credit Union's shared branch locator. Many credit unions participate in these networks, which means you can walk into a participating branch and conduct business even if it's not your home branch.

Check-cashing services and other options

Check-cashing stores and some grocery store customer service desks will issue cashier's checks, but the fees are higher — often $10 to $25 depending on the amount. These are useful if you need one outside of banking hours or don't have a bank account, but they're more expensive than a bank or credit union.

If you need a cashier's check for a real estate closing or other high-stakes transaction, avoid check-cashing services if possible. The recipient may question whether the check is legitimate, and some title companies and escrow agents won't accept them. Stick with a bank or credit union if the transaction is important.

How long it takes to get a cashier's check

If you're a customer and you go in person, most banks issue a cashier's check the same day, usually within minutes. Some banks allow you to order one online or by phone and pick it up later that day. A few banks will mail one to you, which takes 3 to 5 business days.

If you're a non-customer, the process may take longer because the bank needs to verify your identity and collect payment. Call ahead to ask whether they can issue one same-day or whether you need to come back. Never assume a non-customer cashier's check will be ready when ready.

What to do if your bank won't issue one

If your bank has discontinued cashier's checks, your next step is to check whether you belong to a credit union or have access to one through a shared branch network. If not, call a few local banks and ask which ones still issue them to customers. You may be able to open a basic checking account at one of those banks just to get the cashier's check, though this is time-consuming.

For urgent situations, a check-cashing service is faster but more expensive. For non-urgent situations, ask the recipient whether they'll accept a certified check instead — your own bank can usually issue one of those even if they've stopped issuing cashier's checks. A certified check is drawn on your account but certified by the bank, and it serves the same purpose in most transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check from a bank where I don't have an account?

Some banks will issue one to non-customers, but not all. Call your local branch first. If they do, expect to pay a higher fee (usually $10 to $20) and bring a government-issued ID and payment in cash or debit card. Credit unions are often more willing to issue to non-members than banks are.

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

A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's own funds and may provide by the bank. A certified check is drawn on your account but certified by the bank to confirm the funds are there. Both are safer than personal checks, but a cashier's check is considered more find because the bank itself is responsible for payment.

How much does a cashier's check cost?

For customers, fees usually range from $5 to $10. For non-customers, expect $10 to $20 or more. Credit unions typically charge $3 to $8 for members. Check-cashing services charge $10 to $25. The fee does not depend on the amount of the check.

Can I order a cashier's check online?

Some banks allow you to order online and pick up in branch the same day or next business day. Others require you to go in person. Check your bank's website or call your branch to see what options they offer. Most banks do not mail cashier's checks due to fraud concerns.

What if I need a cashier's check after the bank closes?

You'll need to wait until the bank reopens. Some banks offer extended hours on certain days. If you need one urgently, a check-cashing service may be open later, but the fee will be higher. Plan ahead when possible.