How to Get a Cashier's Check

A cashier's check is a check guaranteed by a bank or credit union. The institution takes the money from your account before issuing the check, so the recipient can generally rely on the funds being available. People often request one for rent, closing costs, vehicle purchases, court payments, or other large transactions where a personal check may not be accepted.

For more on this, see how to get cashiers check.

Confirm That You Need a Cashier's Check

Before ordering one, ask the person or organization requesting payment whether a cashier's check is specifically required. Some recipients accept other reliable methods, such as a wire transfer, certified check, money order, or electronic payment. If the request comes from an unfamiliar company or individual, verify it independently before sending money.

Also confirm the exact payment amount, the payee's legal name, and any instructions about where the check should be mailed. Small spelling differences can cause delays, so copy the name exactly from a trusted source.

What You May Need

  • Government-issued identification: Banks commonly require a valid driver's license, passport, or other accepted photo ID.
  • Access to funds: The amount is usually withdrawn from your checking account, savings account, or another account you hold with the institution.
  • Payee information: You should know the exact name of the person, business, or organization receiving the check.
  • Account details: Online or branch requests may require your account number and other verification information.

Where to Get One

The most common source is a bank or credit union where you maintain an account. Many branches can issue a cashier's check during a single visit, although larger amounts or unusual payees may require additional review. Call the branch ahead of time to confirm availability, accepted payment methods, identification requirements, and the fee.

Some online banks and financial institutions also issue cashier's checks by mail. Their process, eligibility rules, fees, and delivery times vary, so review the terms carefully before ordering. Money orders sold at stores, post offices, or grocery stores are different products and may not satisfy a request for a cashier's check.

Steps to Get a Cashier's Check

  • Contact the issuing institution. Ask whether you can obtain the check in person or by mail and whether you need an appointment.
  • Provide the payment information. Give the institution the exact amount and the payee's full legal name.
  • Verify identification and account details. Follow the institution's security procedures and do not provide information to an unverified caller or website.
  • Pay for the check. The funds are generally withdrawn from your account, and the institution may also charge a service fee. Some institutions offer fee waivers under certain account or customer conditions.
  • Review the check before leaving. Confirm the amount, payee, issuer, and signature information. If anything is incorrect, resolve it immediately.
  • Deliver it securely. Hand it directly to the recipient or send it using a trackable delivery method. Keep a record of the transaction and any receipt.

Protect Yourself From Fraud

Treat a cashier's check request as a potential warning sign. Scammers may ask you to buy a check and send it to an address that is not the actual payee. They may also ask you to take money from your account and then forward part of it to another person. Do not comply with unexpected instructions involving a cashier's check.

Use the contact information shown on the institution's official website or on your statement, rather than numbers provided in a suspicious message. Independently confirm the recipient, especially if the payment involves a property, vehicle, investment, or online transaction. Once a cashier's check is issued, it may be difficult to cancel or recover, even when fraud is reported.

Alternatives Worth Considering

If a cashier's check is not mandatory, a certified check may cost less. A money order may work for smaller payments and is widely available. For remote or high-value transactions, a bank wire can provide direct confirmation, although it may not be reversible. Ask the recipient which method they accept and choose the option that balances reliability, cost, and security.