How Can I Get a Cashier’s Check From a Bank?
Understand the straightforward process of obtaining a cashier's check from a bank, ensuring your payments are secure and guaranteed.
A cashier’s check is a secure form of payment guaranteed by the issuing financial institution. It is drawn from the bank’s own funds, ensuring the money is available. This makes cashier’s checks a preferred method for significant transactions, such as large purchases or real estate deals.
Where to Obtain a Cashier’s Check
Cashier’s checks are primarily issued by banks and credit unions. Most financial institutions offer cashier’s checks to their existing customers.
While many banks prioritize their account holders, some institutions may issue cashier’s checks to non-customers, usually for a fee. Non-customers should contact the bank beforehand to inquire about their policy and requirements, as payment is typically required in cash. Services resembling cashier’s checks from non-bank entities, such as some check-cashing services, do not provide the same guarantee.
Information and Items Required
To obtain a cashier’s check, gather specific information and items. A valid government-issued photo identification is required, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID. Some institutions might request a second form of identification or proof of address.
You must have the full amount of the check, plus any applicable fees. Funds can be provided through a cash deposit, a transfer from an existing account, or sometimes via a debit card payment. If withdrawing from your account, the bank verifies sufficient funds to cover the check and charges.
You will need the precise details of the payee, including their full legal name and, if applicable, their address. The exact amount for which the check needs to be made out must also be known, as blank cashier’s checks are not issued.
The Process of Obtaining a Cashier’s Check
The process of obtaining a cashier’s check is straightforward. Approach a teller or customer service representative at a bank branch to initiate the request. They will provide a form to complete, requiring details such as the payee’s name, the exact check amount, and sometimes a memo line notation.
Present your identification and provide the funds. If you are an account holder, the bank will withdraw the funds directly from your designated account. For non-customers, payment is usually required in cash. The bank employee will process and print the cashier’s check.
Cashier’s checks incur a fee, which varies by institution but commonly ranges from $5 to $15. This fee is either deducted from your account along with the check amount or paid separately. Before leaving the counter, carefully review the issued check to ensure all details, including the payee’s name and the amount, are accurate. Obtain a receipt for the transaction, which serves as proof of payment and contains the check number.