You can get a cashier's check from a non-bank source, but your options are limited and the process takes longer

A cashier's check is a check drawn on a financial institution's own account rather than yours, which is why it carries more weight than a personal check—the funds are may provide. If you don't have a bank account, you cannot walk into your bank and order one. But you have three realistic paths: a check-cashing service, a money transfer business, or a credit union that offers non-member services.

Each route has different costs, speed, and reliability. A check-cashing service is the fastest but charges a fee—typically $5 to $15 depending on the check amount. Money transfer businesses like Western Union or MoneyGram can issue a cashier's check but require you to fund the transaction upfront and may take several business days. Credit unions sometimes issue cashier's checks to non-members for a fee, though policies vary widely by institution.

Key Takeaways

  • Check-cashing services are your fastest option and can issue a cashier's check the same day, but they charge a fee based on the amount.
  • You will need to bring cash or a debit card to fund the check, since you have no account balance to draw from.
  • Money transfer services like Western Union can issue a cashier's check but typically take 1 to 3 business days and require you to pay upfront.
  • Some credit unions issue cashier's checks to non-members for a fee, though you should call ahead to confirm they offer this service.
  • The check amount, your location, and the institution's policies all affect whether you can get one and how much it costs.

Check-cashing services: fastest but with a fee

A check-cashing service is your most direct route. These businesses exist to handle transactions for people without bank accounts, and most can issue a cashier's check on the spot. Walk in with cash or a debit card, tell them the amount you need, and they will prepare the check. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

The cost depends on the check amount and the service's fee structure. A $500 check might cost $5 to $10 in fees; a $5,000 check might cost $25 to $50. Some services charge a flat fee, others a percentage of the amount. Call ahead to ask the exact fee for your check amount—it varies by location and company. ACE Cash Express, Check Into Cash, and CheckSmart are national chains, but independent check-cashing shops are common in most cities and often have lower fees.

The risk is that not all check-cashing services issue cashier's checks—some only cash existing checks. Before you go, call or visit their website to confirm they offer cashier's check issuance. Ask whether they need any ID beyond a driver's license, and whether they have a limit on check amounts.

Money transfer services: slower but widely available

Western Union and MoneyGram, which operate thousands of locations in grocery stores, pharmacies, and dedicated offices, can issue a cashier's check. You fund the transaction with cash or a debit card, and they prepare the check. The difference from a check-cashing service is timing: most money transfer locations cannot issue the check the same day. You typically wait 1 to 3 business days for the check to be ready for pickup.

The fee structure is similar to check-cashing services—usually $5 to $20 depending on the amount—but the delay makes this option less practical if you need the check urgently. You also have to return to the location to pick up the check once it is ready. Call the specific location first to confirm they issue cashier's checks and ask their timeline, since policies vary by agent.

Credit unions: sometimes available to non-members

Some credit unions will issue a cashier's check to a non-member for a fee, typically $5 to $15. This is not a standard service—policies differ by institution—so you need to call ahead. Ask whether they issue cashier's checks to non-members, what fee they charge, and what ID and information they need.

If they agree, bring cash or a debit card to fund the check. The process is similar to a bank, but the timeline may be longer than a check-cashing service. Some credit unions issue the check same-day; others take 1 to 2 business days. This route works best if you have a credit union nearby and you have time to wait.

What you need to bring and what information the issuer will ask for

Regardless of which route you choose, bring a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need to know the exact amount of the check and the name of the payee (the person or business the check is written to). Have that information ready before you arrive.

The issuer will ask for your name and address for their records. They may ask why you need the check, though they are not required to refuse service based on your answer. You will need to pay the check amount plus the fee upfront—in cash or by debit card. If you are paying by debit card, confirm the service accepts cards; some check-cashing shops are cash-only.

Timing and delivery: when you get the check

Check-cashing services are fastest: same-day issuance in most cases, sometimes within hours. Money transfer services typically take 1 to 3 business days. Credit unions vary, but often fall in the 1 to 2 business day range. If the check is for a time-sensitive payment—a down payment, a court filing, a security deposit—call ahead to confirm the issuer can meet your important date.

Once you have the check, it is a standard cashier's check. The recipient can deposit it or cash it at any bank or credit union. There is no difference between a cashier's check issued by a check-cashing service and one issued by a bank, as long as the issuer is legitimate.

Costs and limits: what to expect to pay

Fees range from $5 for a small check at a check-cashing service to $50 or more for a large check at some locations. Money transfer services and credit unions typically charge less than check-cashing shops for the same amount. Some services have a maximum check amount—often $5,000 or $10,000—so if you need a larger check, ask first.

The fee is separate from the check amount. If you need a $1,000 check and the fee is $10, you pay $1,010 total. Budget for this cost when deciding which route to use. If the fee is high relative to the check amount, it may be worth calling a few services to compare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a cashier's check online without a bank account?

No. Cashier's checks must be issued in person by a financial institution or check-cashing service. You cannot order one online and have it mailed to you without an account at a bank or credit union. Some banks offer online ordering for account holders, but that does not explore to non-members.

What is the difference between a cashier's check and a money order?

A money order is smaller, cheaper, and issued by post offices and check-cashing services for amounts usually under $1,000. A cashier's check is larger, costs more, and is issued by banks and credit unions for any amount. For large payments, a cashier's check is more widely accepted. For small payments under $500, a money order is often cheaper.

Will the recipient know the check came from a check-cashing service instead of a bank?

Yes, if they look closely. The check will show the issuing institution's name—for example, "ACE Cash Express" instead of "First National Bank." Most recipients do not care where the check came from as long as it clears, but some businesses or landlords may have preferences. If you are unsure, ask the recipient whether they have any requirements.

How long does a cashier's check take to clear once it is deposited?

Typically 1 to 2 business days, the same as any other check. The recipient's bank may hold it longer if the amount is large or if there are other risk factors, but the standard clearing time is the same regardless of the issuer.

Can I get a cashier's check for less than $100?

Yes, but the fee may make it uneconomical. If you need a $50 check and the fee is $5 to $10, you are paying 10 to 20 percent in fees. For small amounts, a money order from the post office is usually cheaper. Ask the service for their minimum check amount and fee before you commit.