Where to get a cashier's check if you don't have a bank
You can get a cashier's check from a credit union, a check-cashing store, or a money services business—you do not need a personal bank account. A cashier's check is a check drawn on the institution's own account and signed by an employee, which makes it more trustworthy than a personal check because the funds are may provide. The institution pulls the money from you upfront, so the recipient knows it will not bounce.
Credit unions are usually the cheapest option if you can join one. Check-cashing stores and money services businesses charge higher fees but have fewer membership requirements and longer hours. The process is the same at all of them: you bring cash or a debit card, tell them the amount and who to make the check payable to, and they issue it on the spot or within a few hours.
Key Takeaways
- Credit unions typically charge $5 to $15 for a cashier's check and may let you open an account with just an ID and a small deposit.
- Check-cashing stores and money services businesses charge $10 to $30 per check but do not require membership or an account.
- You will need to bring cash, a debit card, or a prepaid card, plus the name and address of who the check should be made out to.
- Most places issue the check the same day, though some may take a few hours if they need to verify the funds.
Credit unions: lowest cost if you can join
A credit union is the cheapest place to get a cashier's check, usually charging $5 to $15. You do not need to be a member beforehand—most credit unions let you open a savings account on the spot with just a government-issued ID and a small opening deposit, often $25 or less. Once your account is open, you can request the cashier's check when ready.
The catch is that not all credit unions are open to the public. Some are restricted to employees of a specific company, members of a union, or people who live or work in a certain area. Before you go, search for "credit unions near me" or visit CO-OP, which is a network that lets you find credit unions that accept new members. Call ahead to confirm they issue cashier's checks and what their fee is.
If you already have a relationship with a credit union through a family member or employer, ask whether you can join. Many credit unions have expanded their membership rules in recent years, and you may be may be able to access without realizing it.
Check-cashing stores and money services businesses
Check-cashing stores and money services businesses (sometimes called currency exchanges) will issue a cashier's check without any account or membership. They typically charge $10 to $30 per check, depending on the amount. You walk in with cash or a debit card, provide the payee's name and address, and they issue the check—usually the same day, though some may hold it for a few hours while they verify the funds.
These businesses are widespread and have flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. The downside is the higher fee compared to a credit union. To find one near you, search "check-cashing near me" or "money services near me." Call first to confirm they issue cashier's checks and ask what the fee will be for the amount you need.
Be cautious about the total cost. If you need a $500 check and the fee is $25, you are paying 5 percent just to get the check. For large amounts, a credit union is worth the extra trip.
What you need to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need the money to cover the check amount plus the fee. This can be cash, a debit card, or a prepaid card like a NetSpend or Green Dot card. Some places accept checks from other accounts, but that defeats the purpose if you do not have a bank account.
You will need the full name and mailing address of the person or business the check should be made out to. If you are unsure of the exact spelling or address, ask the payee before you go. A misspelled name or wrong address can cause the check to be rejected or delayed.
How long it takes and what happens next
Most credit unions and check-cashing stores issue the cashier's check the same day, sometimes within minutes. A few may hold it for a few hours while they verify the funds are available, especially for large amounts. Ask when you call or arrive.
Once you have the check, you can deposit it into another account, mail it, or hand it to the payee in person. If you are depositing it into an account you do not yet have, you can open one at a bank or credit union and deposit the check as part of the opening process. Some banks will let you deposit a check before the account is fully set up, though the funds may take a few business days to clear.
Keep your receipt from the cashier's check purchase. If the check is lost or stolen, you may be able to get a replacement or a refund, but you will need proof of purchase.
Comparing costs across institutions
| Institution Type | Typical Fee | Account Required | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Union | $5–$15 | Yes, but can open same day | Same day |
| Check-Cashing Store | $10–$30 | No | Same day |
| Money Services Business | $10–$30 | No | Same day or next day |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cashier's check for less than $100?
Yes, but the fee may be the same as for a larger check. A $10 check with a $15 fee costs you $25 total. For small amounts, ask whether the institution has a minimum or a reduced fee for checks under a certain amount.
What if I do not know the exact payee name or address?
Contact the person or business before you go to the check-cashing store. A misspelled name or wrong address can cause the check to be rejected. If the payee is a business, ask for the legal name and mailing address, not just a nickname or website.
Can I get a cashier's check made out to myself?
Yes. This is sometimes called a self-check. You can then deposit it into another account or use it as proof of funds. The fee is the same as for any other cashier's check.
What if the check is lost or stolen after I pick it up?
Contact the institution that issued it right away with your receipt. They may be able to stop payment and issue a replacement, but the process and fees vary. Some institutions charge a fee to replace a lost check.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get a cashier's check?
No, but you will need a government-issued photo ID. A passport, visa, or state ID from your home country usually works. Call ahead to confirm what the institution accepts.