How to Mail a Check Online Through Your Bank

Mailing a check online offers a convenient way to manage payments without physically handling a check or visiting the post office. This digital solution integrates traditional payment methods with online banking, streamlining the process of sending funds to payees who require a paper check.

Methods for Mailing Checks Online

Individuals seeking to mail checks online primarily utilize two methods: bank bill pay services and dedicated third-party online check mailing services. Most personal bank accounts include a bill pay feature, which allows customers to schedule payments to individuals or businesses. When a payment is scheduled, the bank prints and mails a physical check from your account to the recipient. This service is often provided at no charge for standard delivery, making it a cost-effective option for regular payments.

Alternatively, several dedicated third-party online services specialize in printing and mailing checks on a user’s behalf. These platforms offer features such as one-time payments or recurring disbursements. Many of these services offer various mailing speeds, from standard first-class mail, which can cost around $1.25, to expedited options like Priority Mail or FedEx, with fees potentially ranging from approximately $12.99 to $34.99 or more for faster delivery. Some third-party services also integrate with accounting software, which can streamline the process for businesses.

Information Needed to Send a Check Online

Before mailing a check online, gather specific information to ensure correct processing. You will need the payee’s full legal name, whether an individual or a business. The complete mailing address for the recipient is essential. Without an accurate address, the check may not reach its intended destination.

The exact payment amount must be determined. There is typically an optional field for a memo or note, which can be used to include details such as an account number, invoice number, or a brief description of the payment’s purpose. This memo helps the payee correctly apply the funds received.

You will also need to specify the payment source, typically the bank account from which funds will be drawn. For some third-party services, this might involve linking a bank account or selecting another approved payment method. Lastly, you can select a desired delivery date.

Steps to Mail Your Check Online

With all information prepared, begin by accessing the chosen service. You will log into your bank’s online banking portal or the website of a selected third-party check mailing service. Once logged in, navigate to the “bill pay,” “send a check,” or a similarly labeled feature to initiate a new payment. If you are paying a new recipient, you may first need to add them as a new payee or biller within the system.

The next step involves accurately entering the prepared details into the designated online fields. This includes inputting the payee’s name, their complete mailing address, the specific payment amount, and any relevant information for the memo line. Careful attention to detail is important to prevent errors. After entering all information, a review and confirmation screen will appear to double-check details before finalizing.

During the confirmation stage, you will often have the option to select a delivery date for the check. Standard delivery for paper checks sent through bank bill pay services can take approximately 5 to 7 business days, though some may take up to 10 business days to arrive. If more rapid delivery is needed, expedited options are usually available for an additional fee, which can range from around $14.95 for faster processing, potentially delivering within 1 to 3 business days. Following submission, you should receive a confirmation that your request has been processed. The funds are typically debited from your account either immediately or once the check is mailed, and some services may offer tracking information to monitor the check’s delivery status.