How to Order Checks for a Bank Account

Checks can be ordered from your bank or an independent check printer.

A check is a negotiable instrument that allows you to transfer funds from your checking account to another individual or business. Checks contain your name and address, checking account number and your bank's routing number. This information allows the check receiver's bank to complete the monetary transaction that you authorized by writing and endorsing your check. Typically, when you open a checking account for the first time, your bank will supply you with a book of "starter" checks. However, if you write checks on a regular basis, you will need to replenish your check supply from time to time.

Things You'll Need

• Bank account number
• Bank routing number
• Name and address on account

Instructions

1. Gather your checking account information. To order new checks, you will need your checking account number, your bank's routing number and the name and address associated with the checking account. This information may be found on your checks or by contacting your bank. For personal checks, the bank's routing number is the first series of nine digits printed on the bottom left of your check. Your account number will be the second series of numbers printed at the bottom of your check.

2. Choose a check distributor. Checks may be ordered from your bank. Many banks will provide you with a catalog that contains design and pricing information. This is the safest way to order checks, since you will not risk providing your account information to an unknown third-party printer who may or may not be reputable. The second option is to choose a check printer independent of your bank. Companies such as Deluxe, Walmart and Sam's Club (see the Resources section) offer reliable check printing services. These checks often are less expensive than those ordered through your bank, according to FiveCentNickel.com.

3. Place your check order. Provide your printer with your name, the address associated with the account, your checking account number, your bank's routing number, the style of checks that you wish to order and the number of books that you require. Additionally, you will need to provide the address of the location where you want your checks to be shipped, especially if your shipping address is different from the one associated with your checking account.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid ordering checks from unknown or unreliable sources. There are many online check printing services available. However, you should take steps to ensure that the company is reputable before providing your bank account information to them.

References

• Five Cent Nickel: How to Order Checks Without Getting Ripped Off

Resources

• Walmart: Checks
• Deluxe for Business: Check Starter Kits
• Sam's Club: Sam's Club Check Printing