The times you need a paper check are limited today, so you may no longer keep a physical checkbook handy. However, every once in a while, a payment demands it. You might need checks for a payment to a government agency, a rent deposit or a transaction too large for a card swipe.
So how do you get paper checks in this digital era? You can order checks from your bank or through online retailers that produce checks that are equally safe and legitimate. Here are some of your best options.
Best Places to Order Checks
While your bank or credit union can be a convenient place to obtain checks, you can shop elsewhere for different designs or better prices. It's typically safe to obtain checks from third-party vendors; just make sure the checks feature a small padlock icon, a safety standard on checks authorized by industry group Check Payment Systems Associations.
There are numerous options out there, but here are some of the most popular.
Bank or Credit Union
The financial institution where you hold your checking account is the easiest place to order checks, and some customers may qualify for free checks. They already have all of your account information, so no need to give a third party your bank account information.
You may be able to order online, at your bank branch or by phone. That said, prices are typically higher when ordering directly through your bank.
Checks in the Mail
For over 100 years, the company Checks in the Mail has offered hundreds of check designs, from basic to those featuring dog breeds, charities and movie characters. Some designs offered allow you to order just one pad of 25 checks. Checks in the Mail's pricing for duplicate checks varies by design, but they start at $27.25 for one pack (80 checks) and $44.65 for two packs (160 checks).
They also have a high-security check option loaded with protective features, from ink that fades if photocopied to a foil hologram that's difficult to reproduce. These start at $33.59 for one pack of 80 checks. You can also add an optional FraudArmor service to any check order for increased protection of your checks and financial accounts.
Carousel Checks
While lesser known than some other options, Carousel Checks offers standard checks with basic designs, in addition to those with various designs including patterns, nature scenes, animals, musical instruments and sports. They don't have the licensed character options like some of the other check vendors, but they do have an option to put your custom photo on a check.
For duplicates, Carousel Checks prices start at $19.99 for one box (100 checks) and $39.98 for two boxes (200 checks). You can choose to add EZShield Check Fraud Protection for a fee to guard your checks from unauthorized use.
Costco Checks
Costco sells checks online through Harland Clarke with exclusive savings for Costco members, and you can choose from over 200 check designs. Their duplicate checks start at two packs (200 checks) for $18.38, or four packs (400 checks) for $25.52. Checks purchased through Costco receive free standard delivery.
Costco has a high-security check option with hologram foil and heat-reactive ink to deter fraud. For duplicate checks, two packs (200 checks) are $29.60.
Walmart Checks
Walmart offers a wide range of check designs, from traditional to those featuring military branches and licensed characters. Their duplicate checks start at $11.75 for a single pack (120 checks) and $23.49 for two packs (240 checks). For a fee, any check customer can add CheckSafe Fraud Service for additional protections.
Walmart also offers high-security checks with special ink and hologram foil to help avoid fraud. One pack of duplicate checks (120 checks) costs $24.23. Walmart checks come with free standard shipping.
Vistaprint
Vistaprint is a custom printing website, and checks are just one of their many offerings. An order of 150 checks starts at $15, and an order of 300 checks starts at $24. You can't upload your own design, and their check designs are more limited than other vendors, with only 40 to choose from.
However, the checks do have some added safety methods, such as tamper-resistant printing and ink that will dissolve or run if someone tampers with it. Economy shipping is free for orders over $100.
How to Order Checks
Ready to order some old-fashioned paper checks? Here's how to get started.
1. Compare Prices
Start with your bank or credit union. Look on their app or website, visit a branch or contact customer service to find out the cost of checks. Some financial institutions provide free checks the first time you order them. Compare those prices to some of the options mentioned above, and make sure to factor in fees.
2. Choose Your Design
Once you've decided where to purchase your checks, select a design. You might want a check design that feels personal, such as your favorite charity or Disney character. Maybe you want a certain vibe, like patriotic or floral. Or perhaps you want them to look as professional as possible. You might also have the option to select a font and add a monogram, symbol or additional signature line.Think about who will see your checks and what type of design is ideal, though keep in mind that some designs cost more than others.
3. Select the Check Quantity
Like many other purchases, checks are cheaper per item when you buy in bulk. If you very rarely write checks, it may not feel worth paying for more than a single booklet or pack. However, if you anticipate writing checks regularly, it could be worth paying more upfront to reduce the cost per check.
4. Enter Your Account Information
If you're ordering from a third-party check vendor rather than your bank or credit union, you will need to input your personal and bank details that will appear on the check. Enter the information very carefully and double check everything to ensure there are no errors.
5. Look for Savings and Pay
Some third-party check companies offer occasional deals or promotion codes, so make sure to look on their websites for any money-saving offers before checking out. You may also be able to save money by choosing the slowest shipping option.
Alternatives to Checks
Checks aren't the only way to move money. If you're paying a person or business that's open to methods besides paper checks, here are some other options:
- Automated clearing house (ACH) transfer: An ACH transfer is simply a way to move money between accounts at different financial institutions. If you've ever used your bank's bill pay feature or received a direct deposit, you've used an ACH transfer. Banks and credit unions typically allow you to pay someone via ACH; you'll just need to know their bank account number, routing number and account type.
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) app: A P2P app like Zelle, PayPal or Venmo is a convenient way to move money fast. Depending on which one you use, you could link it to multiple bank accounts and debit and/or credit cards, and you can instantly pay someone else who also has the app. (Note that if you move money on these apps using a bank account rather than a balance or linked card, it's technically an ACH transfer and might not be immediate.) Some P2P apps have limits on how much you can send in a transaction or day, and there may be fees. Only pay individuals or businesses that you have confirmed are legitimate, since P2P fraud is a common issue, and it can be difficult (sometimes impossible) to get money back after sending it.
- Debit card: A debit card is like a faster plastic version of a check. The difference: Once you make a debit card transaction, that money leaves your account right away. This can be easier for budgeting since not all people or businesses deposit checks swiftly, and it's easy to overspend and then overdraw your account when a check finally clears.
- Credit card: Checks and debit cards both pull actual money from your bank account balance. When you use a credit card, funds don't come from your bank account; the transactions add to your debt balance, which you must then pay off later. This could be a more convenient option than a check if you need to pay for something immediately but won't have the money in your account for a few days or weeks. In general, though, it's not ideal to rely on a credit card, especially if you will carry a balance and pay interest.
- Digital wallet: A digital wallet allows you to store payment cards, along with various event tickets, boarding passes, rewards programs and more. Some also allow you to store a cash balance. Digital wallets include apps such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, PayPal, Venmo and Cash App. Digital wallets allow you to make in-person payments by tapping your phone or smartwatch at a payment terminal, making it a convenient way to pay with your card of choice.
The Bottom Line
Paper checks often aren't necessary anymore, but there are occasional times when it's required or preferred. If you don't have any checks associated with your account, consider exploring some of the alternative payment methods above. Otherwise, it's possible your bank will provide some for free—or you can find affordable ones online through legitimate third-party vendors.