How to Order New Checks: Your Complete Options Guide
Discover all your options for ordering checks online or through your bank with cost-saving tips.
When your initial supply of checks runs low, you need to know where and how to reorder them efficiently. Whether you’re ordering from your bank directly or exploring third-party options, understanding your choices can help you save money and get the checks you need faster. Most checking accounts come with a starting set of free checks—typically 100 to 150 checks—when you open the account. However, once those are depleted, you’ll need to purchase additional checks. This comprehensive guide explores all your options for ordering new checks and how to make the most cost-effective decision for your situation.
Understanding Your Check Ordering Options
You have several avenues available when it comes to ordering checks. Each option presents different advantages regarding cost, customization, design choices, and convenience. The main options include ordering directly from your bank, purchasing through national retailers, using specialized check printing companies, or even printing your own checks at home. Understanding the differences between these options will help you select the best fit for your needs and budget.
Ordering Checks Directly from Your Bank
One of the most convenient options is ordering checks directly through your financial institution. Most major banks, including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Capital One, PNC Bank, and U.S. Bank, offer online check ordering through their websites or mobile apps. The advantage of ordering from your bank is simplicity and familiarity—your personal and account information is already on file, which reduces the chance of errors. Additionally, when you order through your bank, you have assurance that the checks will work seamlessly with your account.
However, ordering from your bank often comes with higher costs. Bank checks are typically more expensive than those ordered from third-party retailers, especially if your account doesn’t include free check orders. Many banks charge between $20 to $30 for a standard set of checks, depending on your account type and any loyalty benefits you may qualify for.
Third-Party Check Retailers
Third-party check printing retailers offer a cost-effective alternative to bank-ordered checks. Companies like Checks.com, Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Bradford Exchange, Vista Print, Carousel Checks, and Checks in the Mail all provide check ordering services. These retailers typically offer significantly lower prices than banks, with checks often costing between $8 and $23 per box, depending on the quantity and style you select.
The primary advantage of third-party retailers is affordability and customization options. You’ll have access to hundreds of design choices, from basic single-color checks to elaborate designs featuring images, patterns, or cause-related graphics. Many retailers also allow you to upload custom images to personalize your checks further. Additionally, third-party retailers often offer volume discounts when you order multiple boxes at once.
Step-by-Step Process for Ordering Checks Online
Whether you’re ordering from your bank or a third-party retailer, the basic process is relatively straightforward. Understanding each step will ensure you place an accurate order without delays or errors.
Step 1: Find a Check Printer or Access Your Bank’s Check Service
If ordering from your bank, log into your online banking portal or mobile app and look for the “Order Checks” or “Check Services” option. If you’re considering third-party retailers, research which companies offer the best combination of price, design options, and delivery timeframes. Compare pricing across different retailers to understand what you’ll pay for your specific needs. The cost varies based on the number of checks per box, check type (single or duplicate), and any additional features you select.
| Retailer | Checks Per Box | Cost Per Box |
|---|---|---|
| Checks.com | 80 | $8.20 |
| Bradford Exchange | 100 | $21.95 |
| Sam’s Club | up to 240 | $19.29 for 400 |
| Walmart | 120 | $12.97 |
| Costco | 125 | $19.52 for two packs |
| Carousel Checks | 100 | $13.99 |
| Vista Print | 100 | $9.99 |
| Checks in the Mail | 80 | $22.99 |
Step 2: Choose Your Check Design
One of the major benefits of ordering checks through third-party retailers is the extensive design selection. While bank-ordered checks typically offer limited, basic designs, third-party retailers provide hundreds of options. These range from simple, professional designs to elaborate checks featuring scenic photographs, artistic patterns, seasonal themes, or images supporting specific causes and charities. You can even upload your own custom image to personalize your checks completely.
If you maintain multiple bank accounts, selecting different check designs for each account can help you easily distinguish between them when writing checks or organizing your records. This visual differentiation can prevent costly mistakes when paying bills from different accounts.
Step 3: Select Custom Features and Quantity
When ordering checks online, you’ll have numerous customization options beyond just design. Consider these important elements:
Quantity: A standard box of checks typically contains 100 to 150 checks, though some retailers like Sam’s Club offer boxes with significantly more checks. Many retailers provide discounts when you order multiple boxes simultaneously, so calculating your check usage can help you determine the most economical quantity to purchase.
Single vs. Duplicate Checks: Standard checks are single checks with no copy. Duplicate checks include carbon copy paper underneath each check, allowing you to automatically create a record of every check you write. While duplicates cost slightly more than singles, they can be valuable if you want a built-in record-keeping system. However, many people find that their bank statements and online banking records provide sufficient documentation, making duplicate checks unnecessary.
Additional Features: Some retailers offer extra customization options such as security features, check positioning on the page, and font selections. Security features are particularly important as they help prevent check fraud and forgery.
Step 4: Enter Your Personal and Account Information
This is the most critical step in the check ordering process. You must enter your personal and banking information accurately, as this information will be printed on all your checks and used to route funds from your account. Errors at this stage can result in bounced checks, payment processing problems, and the need to reorder an entire new set of checks at additional expense.
Information you’ll need to provide includes:
- Your full name
- Your complete address
- Bank routing number
- Your account number
- Starting check number (you can choose any number you prefer, though it’s typical to continue from your previous checks)
- Your financial institution’s name
You can easily find this information by examining an existing check, viewing your account details in online banking, or contacting your bank’s customer service. Before submitting your order, carefully review all information for accuracy. Double-check your address spelling, ensure your routing and account numbers are correct, and verify that your name appears exactly as you want it printed on the checks.
Ordering Checks from Specific Banks
Most major financial institutions have streamlined their check ordering processes to make it convenient for customers. Here’s how to order checks from popular banks:
Chase Bank
Chase customers can order personal checks by signing into their Chase account online and selecting their preferred check design. You can also modify the address that appears on your checks during the ordering process without affecting your mailing address in the system. For business accounts, there’s a dedicated business check ordering page. You can view the cost and any applicable discounts before finalizing your order. Alternatively, you can visit any Chase branch to order checks in person.
Bank of America
Bank of America allows customers to order checks through Online Banking or the mobile banking app. Check costs vary depending on the style selected, but Preferred Rewards members and certain account holders qualify for free standard check styles and discounts on specialty designs. Customers can view their complete check catalog, pricing, and track order status through their online banking portal.
Capital One
Capital One 360 Checking customers can order their first set of checks for free. Subsequent orders cost $20 to $25 depending on quantity. To order, sign into your account online or through the Capital One mobile app, select your account, choose the number of checks needed, and confirm your information before placing the order.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo customers can order checks online through Wells Fargo Online or by telephone. The process requires signing in to your account and selecting your preferences. If you don’t have online banking access, you can enroll to access check ordering services.
PNC Bank
PNC Bank customers can order checks through online banking by selecting “Help” then “Manage Accounts,” and choosing “Order Checks and Supplies.” PNC partners with Harland Clarke for check printing and customization. Orders typically process and ship within 7-10 business days. PNC also offers automatic check reordering, which sends you a notification three months before your supply is predicted to run out.
Special Considerations When Ordering Checks
Security Features
When ordering checks, consider security features that help prevent fraud and forgery. Modern check designs often include security elements such as watermarks, color-shifting inks, microprinting, and security threads. These features make your checks more difficult to counterfeit and help protect your account from unauthorized access.
Delivery Timeframes
Most third-party retailers process and ship check orders within 7-10 business days. Bank check orders may take slightly longer depending on the institution. If you need checks urgently, confirm delivery timeframes before placing your order. Some retailers offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee.
Check Number Selection
When you order new checks, you’ll typically specify a starting check number. While it’s standard to continue sequentially from your previous checks, you can choose any starting number you prefer. However, maintaining sequential numbering helps with record-keeping and reconciliation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ordering Checks
Q: Can I print my own checks at home?
A: While it is technically legal to print your own checks, they must comply with banking regulations and industry standards. However, home-printed checks often lack the security features of professionally printed checks, making them more susceptible to fraud and potentially problematic for certain transactions or creditors who may not accept them.
Q: How much do checks typically cost?
A: Check costs vary widely depending on where you order them. Bank checks typically cost $20-$30 per box, while third-party retailers range from $8 to $23 per box depending on design and quantity. Many retailers offer volume discounts for multiple box orders.
Q: What if I make a mistake on my check order?
A: Most retailers allow you to cancel orders if they haven’t been printed yet. Once printed and shipped, you typically cannot cancel. If your order contains errors, contact customer service immediately to explore your options, which may include reordering at an additional cost.
Q: How long do checks last?
A: Checks generally remain valid indefinitely in terms of the bank honoring them. However, some banks may refuse to process checks older than six months from the date written. It’s best to cash or deposit checks promptly.
Q: Can I change my address on my checks?
A: Yes, you can change the address printed on your checks during the ordering process. However, this is different from updating your mailing address in the bank’s system. Check with your specific bank about their procedures for address changes.
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Deciding where to order your checks depends on several factors. If convenience and account integration are your priorities, ordering directly from your bank is straightforward and reliable. However, if you’re cost-conscious and value design options, third-party retailers typically offer better prices and more customization. Many people find that the savings from using third-party retailers—sometimes up to 60% less than bank prices—outweigh any convenience trade-offs. By understanding all your options and comparing costs across providers, you can make an informed decision that best suits your banking needs and budget.
References
- How to Order Checks Online — Bankrate. 2025-02-16. https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/how-to-order-checks-online/
- Order New Checks Online — Chase Bank. https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/checkbook-orders
- How to Order a Checkbook — Capital One Help Center. https://www.capitalone.com/help-center/checking-savings/order-checks-online/
- How to Order Checks — PNC Bank. https://www.pnc.com/en/customer-service/how-to-order-checks.html
- Ordering Checks FAQs — Bank of America. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/ordering-checks-faqs/
- Order Checks, Stop Payments, and Other Requests Questions — Wells Fargo. https://www.wellsfargo.com/help/checking-savings/order-checks-faqs/
- Order checks | Order new checks online — U.S. Bank. https://www.usbank.com/bank-accounts/checking-accounts/checking-customer-resources/order-checks.html
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
