What is a cashier’s check and how can I get one? (29 Places to get them)

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If you are looking for a secure and reliable method of payment for a large purchase, a cashier’s check may be the solution you need. This type of check is backed by the funds of a bank or credit union, making it a safer option than a personal check. Additionally, cashier’s checks are known to clear faster than regular checks, which is why they are often preferred for high-value transactions.

Now, you may be wondering, where can you get a cashier’s check near you? Well, you have a few options. Firstly, you can visit your bank or credit union and request a cashier’s check. Most financial institutions offer this service to their customers, and they will likely charge a small fee for it. Alternatively, you can check with other local banks or credit unions to see if they offer this service to non-customers. Finally, some grocery stores and retailers may also offer cashier’s checks, so it’s worth checking with them as well.

It’s important to note that when getting a cashier’s check, you will need to provide the exact amount of the payment, as well as the name of the payee. This information will be printed on the check itself, so it’s crucial to ensure that it’s accurate. Also, keep in mind that cashier’s checks are typically non-refundable, so make sure you really want to go through with the transaction before obtaining one.

What is a cashier’s check?

A cashier’s check is a type of check that is issued by a bank and guaranteed by the bank itself, instead of relying on the individual’s personal account balance. This means that the bank ensures that the funds are available and that the check will not bounce. As a result, cashier’s checks are often used for high-value transactions such as paying a security deposit for a new apartment, buying a car, or making a down payment on a house.

If you’re looking to obtain a cashier’s check, it’s important to know where to go. Fortunately, there are many institutions that offer this service. You can start by checking with your own bank, as they may be able to provide you with a cashier’s check. Alternatively, you can look into other financial institutions such as credit unions, check-cashing stores, and money transfer agencies.

Before getting a cashier’s check, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, you’ll need to have the full amount of the check available in your account, as the bank will typically only issue a cashier’s check for the full amount. Additionally, you may be charged a fee for the service, which can vary depending on the institution. Finally, it’s important to ensure that you’re obtaining a legitimate cashier’s check, as there are unfortunately many scams out there that involve fraudulent checks.

How to get a cashier’s check

When you plan to purchase a cashier’s check, the first thing to note is that you typically need to have an existing account with the financial institution where you wish to buy the check. Along with this, there are several other requirements that you have to fulfill to obtain a cashier’s check.

Personal identification: You need to provide personal identification documents such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, you also need to provide your bank account number or ATM card information to the financial institution.

Payment: You must have sufficient funds in your existing account at the financial institution or funds to open a new account to obtain a cashier’s check.

Check recipient information: You should also provide the details of the recipient of the check, i.e., the person or company the bank should make the check payable to.

Money for the fee: You should be ready to pay the cashier’s check fee as set by your bank. This fee may vary depending on the financial institution and the amount of the check.

Memo information: You can provide optional memo information on the check, similar to a personal check.

How much does a cashier’s check cost?

Cashier’s checks are a secure form of payment that many people use for large transactions such as buying a car or a house. If you’re planning to get a cashier’s check, it’s important to know that most banks and credit unions charge a fee for this service. The fee typically ranges from $5 to $15 per check. However, it’s worth noting that some financial institutions may waive the fee if you have a certain balance or type of checking account.

If you’re a member of a credit union or bank, you might be eligible for reduced or no fees on cashier’s checks. Some accounts may even include the cost of a set number of cashier’s checks per month or year. It’s essential to check with your bank or credit union to see what their policy is regarding fees for cashier’s checks.

The cost of a cashier’s check also depends on the bank you use. Some banks may charge more or less than others, so it’s crucial to compare the fees of several institutions before choosing one. Additionally, many banks offer online banking services that allow you to order a cashier’s check online and have it mailed to you, which can be a convenient option.

Where to get a cashier’s check

When it comes to purchasing a cashier’s check, it’s important to note that these types of checks are typically issued by financial institutions. This means that unlike money orders, which can often be purchased at gas stations, convenience stores, and post offices, you won’t be able to buy a cashier’s check from these types of locations.

Instead, if you’re looking to get a cashier’s check, you can obtain one from these locations:

Banks

When you need to make a payment and want to ensure that the funds are guaranteed, a cashier’s check is a reliable option. You can obtain a cashier’s check at your local bank branch, but typically, you will need to have an active checking or savings account with the bank to get one. However, some banks may allow non-customers to purchase cashier’s checks by paying with cash or a debit card. It’s always best to call ahead and check with your bank to confirm their policy.

It’s worth noting that banks may charge a fee for issuing a cashier’s check, which can vary depending on the bank and the amount of the check. It’s a good idea to confirm the fee with your bank before requesting a cashier’s check.

Here are some of the top banks that offer cashier’s checks:

1. Ally Bank

If you are looking to obtain a cashier’s check from Ally Bank, you will need to have an account with them. However, the good news is that there are no fees associated with this service, which can be a great relief to many customers.

2. Bank of America

When it comes to making payments, cashier’s checks can be a great option. If you are considering getting a cashier’s check from Bank of America, there are a few things you should know.

Firstly, you will need to have an account with the bank to be able to get a cashier’s check. Secondly, there is a fee of $15 for getting a cashier’s check. However, if you are a Preferred Rewards member, this fee is waived.

3. BBVA

To obtain a cashier’s check from BBVA, you will need an account with the bank. The bank charges a fee of $10 for each cashier’s check requested.

4. Capital One Bank

If you’re planning to make a payment or transfer a large amount of money, you might want to consider getting a cashier’s check from Capital One Bank. To obtain a cashier’s check, you’ll need to have an account with the bank and be prepared to pay a fee of $10.

This fee covers the cost of the check and the processing of the transaction. Keep in mind that unlike personal checks, cashier’s checks are guaranteed by the bank, so they can be a good option for transactions that require a high level of security and reliability.

5. Chase Bank

If you are looking to obtain a cashier’s check from Chase Bank, you will need to have an account with them. The fee for obtaining a cashier’s check is $8, but this fee is waived if you have a Premier Plus or Platinum account with Chase Bank.

6. Citibank

To obtain a cashier’s check from Citibank, you will need to have an active account with the bank. The fee for a cashier’s check is $10, but this fee is waived for customers who hold a Citi Priority or Citigold account. It’s important to note that without one of these accounts, the fee cannot be waived.

7. Citizens Bank & Trust

To obtain a cashier’s check from Citizens Bank & Trust, you will need to have an active account with them. Additionally, please note that there is a fee of $10 for this service.

8. Comerica Bank

If you require a cashier’s check, you can obtain one from Comerica Bank. To get a cashier’s check, you will need to have an account with the bank. However, you should be aware that the bank will charge a fee of $10 for this service.

9. Fidelity

To obtain a cashier’s check from Fidelity, you would need to have an account with them. The fee for a cashier’s check is $8.

This fee may vary depending on the type of account you have with Fidelity. Please note that there might be additional fees or requirements that you need to fulfill before obtaining a cashier’s check from Fidelity.

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10. Fifth Third Bank

If you’re looking to obtain a cashier’s check from Fifth Third Bank, you’ll need to have an account with them. The fee for a cashier’s check is $7, which can be waived if you hold a Preferred or Private Bank account with the bank.

11. HSBC

If you are planning to obtain a cashier’s check from HSBC, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, you will need to have an account with HSBC in order to obtain a cashier’s check.

Secondly, there are some fees associated with obtaining a cashier’s check, but these fees are waived for Basic and Choice members. So, if you fall under these categories, you will be able to obtain a cashier’s check from HSBC without having to pay any fees.

12. Huntington Bank

If you are looking to obtain a cashier’s check from Huntington Bank, please note that an account with the bank is required. Additionally, there is a fee of $6 associated with obtaining a cashier’s check.

13. KeyBank

To obtain a cashier’s check from KeyBank, you will need to have an account with them. The fee for a cashier’s check is $8, which can be waived if you hold a Privilege or Privilege Select account with KeyBank.

14. M&T Bank

If you’re looking to obtain a cashier’s check from M&T Bank, please note that you will need to have an account with the bank. Additionally, there is a fee of $10 associated with obtaining a cashier’s check from M&T Bank.

15. PNC Bank

If you need to issue a cashier’s check from PNC Bank, you will need to have an account with them. PNC Bank charges a fee of $10 for issuing a cashier’s check. However, if you have a Performance or Performance Select account with PNC Bank, the fee will be waived for you.

16. Regions Bank

In order to obtain a cashier’s check from Regions Bank, you will need to have an account with them. The process of obtaining a cashier’s check involves providing the bank with the necessary details and paying a fee of $10. Please note that the fee for a cashier’s check may vary depending on the bank and the specific account you have with them.

17. SunTrust Bank

SunTrust Bank offers cashier’s checks to its customers without requiring them to have an account. However, non-account holders are charged a fee of $8 or $15 depending on the type of account they have.

The fee is waived for Signature Advantage, Advantage Checking, and Exclusive Checking account holders. So, if you have one of these accounts, you can get a cashier’s check without any additional fees.

18. TD Bank

If you are planning to get a cashier’s check from TD Bank, please note that an account with the bank is required. Additionally, there is a fee of $8 for obtaining a cashier’s check.

However, this fee can be waived for most checking, savings, and money market accounts. So, if you already have one of these accounts with TD Bank, you may be able to avoid paying the fee.

19. Union Bank

To obtain a cashier’s check from Union Bank, you will need to have an account with the bank. The fee for getting a cashier’s check is $3. This fee may be subject to change, depending on the bank’s policies.

To get a cashier’s check, you will need to provide the bank with the necessary details, such as the name of the payee, the amount to be paid, and any other relevant information.

20. USAA

If you are looking to obtain a cashier’s check from USAA, you will need to have an account with them. Additionally, USAA charges a fee of $10 for each cashier’s check they issue.

It’s important to keep in mind that this fee may vary depending on the specific terms and conditions of your account. Please check with USAA for further details on their fees and requirements for obtaining a cashier’s check.

21. US Bank

If you are looking to obtain a cashier’s check in the United States, US Bank can be a good option for you. To get a cashier’s check from US Bank, you will need to have an account with them.

The fee for getting a cashier’s check is $10, but there is good news for military service members – the fee is waived for them. Therefore, if you are a military service member, you can get a cashier’s check from US Bank for free.

22. Wells Fargo

If you’re planning to obtain a cashier’s check from Wells Fargo, you will need to have an account with them. This means that you must be a customer of Wells Fargo and have an account with them in order to get a cashier’s check. The fee for obtaining a cashier’s check is $10, which is charged to your account.

However, if you have a Preferred, Premier, or Portfolio Checking account with Wells Fargo, the fee is waived. So, you can get a cashier’s check for free if you have any of these checking accounts with Wells Fargo.

23. Woodforest National Bank

If you are planning to obtain a cashier’s check from Woodforest National Bank, please note that you will require an account with the bank. Additionally, there is a fee of $10 for processing the cashier’s check.

It is important to keep in mind that this fee may vary depending on the location of the bank and other factors. Therefore, it is advisable to confirm the exact fee with the bank before proceeding with the transaction.

Credit Unions

Another option to obtain a cashier’s check besides banks is credit unions. Credit unions are financial institutions that offer similar services to traditional banks. However, they are usually smaller and more community-oriented.

Credit unions can be a great alternative for obtaining cashier’s checks, especially if you are a member of the credit union. Members usually get access to better rates, lower fees, and other perks. If you are not a member of a credit union, you can still get a cashier’s check from them, but you may have to pay higher fees compared to members.

24. Alliant Credit Union

To obtain a cashier’s check from Alliant Credit Union, you will need an account with them. Fortunately, there are no fees associated with this service.

25. BECU

To obtain a cashier’s check from BECU, you will need to have an account with the credit union. The fee for obtaining a cashier’s check is $5. This fee is subject to change based on the policies of the credit union.

Please note that the fee is in addition to any other fees that may be charged by your financial institution for processing the transaction. It is advisable to inquire about any additional fees while obtaining the cashier’s check.

26. Chartway Federal Credit Union

To obtain a cashier’s check from Chartway Federal Credit Union, you will need to have an account with them. The fee for this service is $3.

27. Navy Federal Credit Union

To obtain a cashier’s check from Navy Federal Credit Union, you will need to have an account with them. The fee for getting a cashier’s check is $5. This fee may be subject to change, so it’s always best to check with the bank for the most updated information.

28. Northrop Grumman Federal Credit Union

In order to obtain a cashier’s check from Northrop Grumman Federal Credit Union, you will need to have an account with them. Additionally, please note that there is a fee of $5 associated with obtaining a cashier’s check.

29. PenFed Credit Union

If you are planning to obtain a cashier’s check from PenFed Credit Union, please note that you will need to have an account with them. Additionally, it is good to know that there are no fees associated with obtaining a cashier’s check from PenFed Credit Union.

30. Tucson Federal Credit Union

If you require a cashier’s check from Tucson Federal Credit Union, you will need to have an account with them. The fees for getting a cashier’s check from Tucson Federal Credit Union are $3.

Please note that the fee may be subject to change, so it is always advisable to confirm the current fee with the financial institution before proceeding with the transaction.

Where to get a cashier’s check without a bank account

When it comes to obtaining a cashier’s check without a bank account, you may face some challenges. Most banks tend to offer this service only to their account holders. If you are in such a situation, you might be wondering what your options are. Fortunately, there are several ways to go about it. However, it’s essential to note that these options may come with additional fees and requirements that you need to fulfill. Therefore, before settling for any of these alternatives, it’s crucial to research and compare their terms and conditions to ensure that you choose the one that suits your needs and budget best.

Open a free checking account

When it comes to obtaining a cashier’s check, the easiest and most straightforward approach is to open an account at a bank or credit union that offers this service. Many financial institutions provide free checking accounts that don’t require a minimum balance, and you can typically order a cashier’s check as soon as you’ve deposited some money into the account.

Keep in mind, however, that this option may not be available to everyone, as there are several reasons why you may not have a personal bank account. If that’s the case, you may want to consider exploring alternative options for obtaining a cashier’s check.

Order a cashier’s check online

If you have a bank account at a local or regional bank, and you find yourself short on time or unable to visit a branch nearby to order a cashier’s check, then you may be able to order one online. Ordering a cashier’s check online is a convenient option offered by many banks, which allows customers to order a check without physically visiting a branch.

To order a cashier’s check online, simply log in to your bank account and navigate to the “order cashier’s check” option. Depending on the bank, you may need to provide some information about the recipient, such as their name and address. You may also need to provide the amount of the check and any other relevant details.

Once you have completed the online order form, you can choose to have the check mailed to you or sent directly to the recipient. If you choose to have the check mailed to you, it will usually arrive within a few days. Alternatively, if you choose to have the check sent directly to the recipient, it may arrive more quickly, depending on the recipient’s location and the speed of the postal service.

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Call up your local bank or credit union

In case you don’t have a bank account, it may seem difficult to obtain a cashier’s check for your financial transactions. Although most banks only provide cashier’s checks to their customers, there are some exceptions to this rule. However, it’s best to do your research and call up several banks beforehand to ensure you don’t waste your time by showing up empty-handed.

If you decide to go ahead with this option, it’s important to note that you will have to pay for the cashier’s check with cash, just like you would for a money order. It’s also a good idea to ask the bank if they have any specific requirements or fees for providing a cashier’s check to non-customers. By being proactive and doing your due diligence, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when obtaining a cashier’s check without a bank account.

Can you cash a cashier’s check without a bank account?

If you’ve received a cashier’s check from someone else, there are several options available for cashing it. The first option is to endorse the check and present it to the bank where it was issued. You may be required to show a valid photo ID that matches the name on the check. However, you don’t need to have an account at the issuing bank to cash the check.

Another option is to deposit the check into your own account at a different bank. Some banks like Chase and U.S. Bank allow you to deposit a cashier’s check using their mobile app or an ATM. However, there may be limits on the amount you can deposit. You’ll need to check with your bank to see what their limits are.

If you don’t have a bank account or don’t want to go through the hassle of depositing the check, you can take it to a check-cashing store. However, be aware that check-cashing stores charge a fee for their services, which is usually a percentage of the check amount. These fees can be quite high, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare rates before cashing the check at a check-cashing store.

What if I lose or misplace a cashier’s check?

If you have lost or misplaced a check, it is important that you inform your issuing bank immediately. The bank can only cancel the check if it is in your physical possession. Once the check is out of your hands, it becomes impossible to void it, which leaves it open to the risk of being cashed by someone else.

To protect the bank from possible liability, you may have to procure an “indemnity bond.” This bond will indemnify the bank in case the original check is presented for payment after cancellation. However, obtaining such a bond may take some time.

Additionally, you may have to wait for one to three months before the bank issues you a replacement check. It is essential to be patient as the bank has to conduct its own investigation to ensure that the original check has not been fraudulently cashed.

When should you use a cashier’s check?

When it comes to making large purchases like a down payment on a house or a car, it’s important to consider the method of payment. While some sellers may not accept debit or credit cards, you can use a cashier’s check as a safe and reliable alternative. It’s a convenient and secure way to ensure that the seller receives the payment without any issues.

A cashier’s check is a type of check that is guaranteed by a bank or credit union because the funds are drawn directly from the institution. This means that the seller can be confident that the check won’t bounce, unlike a regular check. Additionally, a cashier’s check is much safer than using cash as it eliminates the risk of theft or loss.

It’s important to note that there is no upper or lower limit for a cashier’s check, but it’s recommended for payments over $1,000 or anything above your credit limit. While there is a fee associated with obtaining a cashier’s check, it’s usually worth it for the peace of mind it provides. The fee for a cashier’s check typically ranges from $5 to $15, depending on the issuing bank or credit union. For instance, Bank of America charges $15 for cashier’s checks, but some customers may be eligible for a waived fee.

Can I put a stop payment order on a cashier’s check?

It’s important to understand that there is a key difference between a personal check and a cashier’s check when it comes to stopping payment.

If you need to cancel a personal check, you can simply put a stop payment order on it, which will prevent the check from being processed by the bank. However, if you have a cashier’s check that you need to cancel, you won’t be able to do so in the same way. This is because a cashier’s check is drawn on the bank’s funds, not your personal account, so the bank is essentially guaranteeing the payment.

As a result, banks are required to honor cashier’s checks once they have been issued, which means that you cannot simply stop payment on one like you can with a personal check. It’s important to keep this in mind when deciding whether to use a personal check or a cashier’s check for a particular transaction, and be sure to consider the potential risks involved with each option.

Alternatives to cashier’s checks

If you’re planning to make a large purchase, you might be wondering about the best way to pay for it. While a cashier’s check is one option, there are several other methods available that you might want to consider. Money orders, certified checks, and money transfers are all alternatives to a cashier’s check, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Money order

Money orders and cashier’s checks are both popular payment methods that guarantee a payment won’t bounce. However, there are differences between the two. While a cashier’s check is guaranteed by your financial institution, a money order is simply paid for upfront. This means that the recipient of a money order is guaranteed payment as long as the money order is legitimate and has not been altered.

One of the benefits of a money order is that you don’t need a bank account to get one. You can purchase a money order at various locations, including U.S. Postal Service locations, Walmart, and some convenience stores. The process is relatively simple – you provide the amount you want to pay, plus a fee, and receive a paper document that you can then deliver to the recipient.

At the post office, a money order typically costs between $1.65 and $2.20, depending on the amount you want to send. You can pay for a money order with a debit card or with cash. Keep in mind that money orders typically max out at $1,000 or $2,000, depending on where you get them. Thus, they are not suitable for large amounts of money.

Certified check

When it comes to making large purchases or real estate transactions, cashier’s checks and certified checks are two secure payment options that you might consider. While both types of checks ensure that the payment is guaranteed, there are some differences in how they work.

A certified check is similar to a cashier’s check in that it is guaranteed by the bank. However, instead of the bank using its own funds to back the check, the funds in the account of the check writer are held by the bank until the check is cashed. This means that the bank employee issuing the certified check will check the account of the check writer to ensure that they have sufficient funds before issuing the check. Once the check is issued, the bank will hold the funds until it is cashed, ensuring that the money is available for the recipient.

One benefit of certified checks is that they can be more convenient for customers who already have an account with the bank. This is because the bank employee can check the account balance and issue the check on the spot. This can save the customer time and hassle compared to obtaining a cashier’s check, which may require a visit to a different bank or financial institution.

Both certified checks and cashier’s checks offer a secure payment option for large purchases or real estate transactions, but it’s important to consider the specifics of each option before deciding which one is right for you.

Electronic transfers

Electronic money transfers have revolutionized the way we move funds from one account to another. With this technology, you can easily transfer money from one bank account to another, without the need for a cashier’s check. There are two main types of electronic money transfers that you can use: ACH and wire transfers.

An ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfer is an electronic transaction that allows you to move funds between bank accounts. These types of transfers are typically used for regular payments like direct deposits or bill payments. ACH transfers are typically free or have very low fees, and they can take anywhere from one to three business days to process.

Wire transfers, on the other hand, are faster but can be more expensive. A wire transfer is an electronic transaction that moves money from one bank account to another almost instantly. They are often used for large payments, such as real estate transactions or international transfers. Wire transfers can cost anywhere from $10 to $35 per transaction, depending on the bank and the amount of money being transferred.

It’s worth noting that electronic transfers work best when both parties have a bank account. However, some financial institutions do allow you to wire money without a bank account. In these cases, you will typically need to provide identification and pay a higher fee for the transaction.

Money transfer apps

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional bank transfers, you might want to consider using a money transfer app like Venmo (in the U.S.) or Remitly (for international transfers). Not only do these apps come with lower fees compared to regular bank transfers, but they also don’t require you to have a bank account.

To transfer money using these apps, you can simply fund your transfer using a debit card or credit card, and then send the money directly to your recipient’s bank account or digital wallet. This means that you can easily and quickly send money to anyone, even if they don’t have a bank account.

Overall, using a money transfer app can be a great option for those who want to simplify their money transfers and avoid high fees.

The bottom line

If you need a cashier’s check, you can easily obtain one from your local bank or credit union. These financial institutions offer this service to customers who need a secure and reliable payment method.

To obtain a cashier’s check, you will need to visit a bank or credit union in person, as this service is not typically available online. Before you go, make sure you have all the necessary documents with you, such as a valid ID and the funds to cover the amount of the check.

Keep in mind that some banks may require additional documentation or have specific policies regarding cashier’s checks, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their requirements. With a little preparation, you can quickly and easily obtain a cashier’s check from a bank or credit union near you.