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In today’s digital age, it might seem like checks are a thing of the past, but many small businesses still rely on them as a means of payment. Individuals might also need personal checks for various reasons, such as paying rent, utilities, or donating. When you open an account with a bank or credit union, they typically provide you with a complimentary starter pack of checks.
However, what happens when you run out of them? Ordering more checks from your bank is usually the most expensive option, and you might be looking for a more affordable alternative.
Thankfully, there are plenty of reliable online vendors where you can order checks at a reasonable price. Ordering checks online can be cheaper than from your bank. Moreover, you can customize your checks with designs that suit your personality or interests, such as landscapes, animals, sports teams, and even cartoon characters.
Personalized checks are a fun way to add a touch of personality to your financial transactions and make them more enjoyable. Ordering checks online is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to buying them from your bank, and it can be a great way to express your creativity.
What is the best place to order checks online?
If you still rely on paper checks for making payments, you must know that bank checks can be quite expensive. If you have exhausted the free checks provided to you upon opening your account, you might be wondering where to get more checks from. In such a scenario, ordering checks online can be a convenient and cost-effective solution.
Fortunately, several reputable websites offer checks at competitive prices. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of six of the best places to order checks online. We have also included some honorable mentions worthy of consideration based on their reputation, pricing, and customization options. So, whether you need personal checks or business checks, you can find the best deals and designs by ordering them online.
1. Walmart Checks
Walmart Checks offers a wide range of personal and business checks at affordable prices. Their selection includes basic check options and those with a unique flair, featuring landscapes, nature, animals, dog breeds, and popular characters. To ensure your security, these checks are equipped with multiple security features.
If you’re looking to save money, Walmart’s basic check options are great. For example, a box of 120 checks costs only $8.52, which works out to roughly 7 cents per check. Also, Walmart offers free standard shipping for their checks, which you can expect to receive within 12 business days.
When ordering checks, you can choose between single and duplicate checks, depending on your needs. Duplicate checks come with an extra copy for your records, which can be useful for financial tracking.
2. Super Value Checks
If you’re looking for economical checks, Super Value Checks is a great option. Their 60-check box is priced at just $1.95, which is an incredible value of around 3 cents per check!
However, while all other companies on our list offer free shipping, Super Value Checks’ most basic and standard shipping option costs $3.79 and takes 10 to 14 business days. Despite this added expense, Super Value Checks is the most affordable choice.
Additionally, don’t assume that choosing the budget option means you’ll be stuck with plain and basic designs. Super Value Checks has over 200 designs to choose from, including both single and duplicate checks. It’s worth keeping in mind that the more intricate the design or security features, the higher the price will go.
3. Costco Checks
If you’re a Costco member, you can take advantage of their partnership with Harland Clarke and purchase checks at great prices. However, it’s important to note that Costco Checks is only available to members. When you make a purchase, you’ll have to buy in bulk since the smallest box comes with 200 checks.
Whether you need business or personal checks, Costco provides the best security features. Their high-security checks have over 25 security features, including heat-sensitive ink, holograms, watermarks, and visible and invisible fluorescent fibers.
If you’re looking to save money, the most cost-effective option is to purchase a 200-count box of basic checks for $18.70 (Gold Star/Business Member pricing), which comes out to around 9 cents per check. You’ll receive a 20% discount if you’re an Executive Member. And the best part? Shipping is free and trackable, and your order will arrive in 9 to 12 business days. If you need your checks sooner, you can opt for express delivery for $19.90, which will arrive in 7 to 9 business days.
4. Checks in the Mail
Checks in the Mail is a well-known company in the industry. It is renowned for providing high-quality checks to customers across the United States. The company sells over a billion checks yearly, making it one of the top players in the market.
While Checks in the Mail may not be the most affordable option available, with a pad of 25 single checks costing $5.25 (or about 21 cents per check), they often offer discounts on their website, making their products more accessible to customers.
One of the standout features of Checks in the Mail is the extensive range of check styles it offers. With more than 200 options, including popular Disney and Peanuts characters, patriotic and religious designs, and even checks with dogs and other animals, customers will surely find a design that suits their taste. Additionally, Checks in the Mail provides high-security options for those seeking extra protection for their checks.
Like other check providers, Checks in the Mail offers single and duplicate checks. Standard shipping is free and generally takes 12 to 14 business days, ensuring customers receive their checks on time.
5. Bradford Exchange Checks
The age-old saying “you get what you pay for” holds true when purchasing checks. While Bradford Exchange may have some of the most expensive checks on the market, priced at $21.45 for a box of 100, or more than 21 cents per check, the company’s reputation for providing high-quality checks and exceptional customer service is unmatched.
Bradford Exchange Checks is known for its stunning artwork, be it characters or landscapes, that far outshines what you’ll find on the cheap checks offered by Super Value Checks. The level of detail and the vivid colors used in Bradford Exchange’s designs are simply breathtaking.
In addition to the top-notch quality of their checks, Bradford Exchange offers free shipping on all orders. However, the shipping may take 12 to 15 business days to arrive.
Overall, if you’re looking for checks that are not only functional but also visually appealing, Bradford Exchange is definitely the place to go. While the price may be a bit steep, the quality and service you receive are more than worth it.
6. Check Advantage
If you are looking for a wide variety of check designs to choose from, you might want to consider Check Advantage. With over 2,500 check designs, you will surely find a design that suits your taste. However, if too many options overwhelm you, you might want to look elsewhere.
The pricing for Check Advantage is reasonable. The most affordable option is a box of 150 single checks for $15.84, which comes out to roughly 11 cents per check. What sets Check Advantage apart is its on-time guarantee. They promise to print and ship your checks within three business days. In addition, they offer free shipping, which takes 11 to 15 business days to arrive.
7. Carousel Checks
If you’re looking for no-frills checks at an affordable price, Carousel Checks might be the right fit for you. They offer a basic selection of checks at a significant discount compared to what you’d pay at your bank. However, be prepared to wait longer for your order, as delivery can take up to four weeks.
Beyond the top picks
While these four check printing companies didn’t snag a top spot in our review, they still offer compelling options for certain customers. Here’s a quick breakdown of their strengths:
- Checks.com: Well-rounded choice – Offers a good combination of reasonable prices and a decent variety of checks, without excelling in any area.
- Sam’s Club Checks: Bulk savings king – Perfect for those who write a lot of checks and are comfortable purchasing in large quantities (minimums apply).
- Checks Unlimited: Specialty check haven that caters to those seeking unique check designs, featuring characters like Warner Bros. cartoon stars.
Cost of ordering checks online
This analysis compares the per-check cost of various check printers and suppliers, helping you choose the most budget-friendly option. We focused on the cheapest single checks offered in the smallest box quantities, excluding shipping fees.
Super Value Checks stands out as the most affordable option, with a price of only $0.03 per check (60 checks for $1.95). However, unlike other providers on this list, they might charge for standard shipping.
Here’s a quick rundown of the per-check prices:
- Walmart: $0.07 (120 checks for $8.52)
- Super Value Checks: $0.03
- Costco Checks: $0.09 (200 checks for $18.70) – Requires membership
- Checks in the Mail: $0.21 (25 checks for $5.25)
- Bradford Exchange: $0.21 (100 checks for $21.45)
- Check Advantage: $0.11 (150 checks for $15.84)
- Carousel Checks: $0.04 (100 checks for $3.99)
- Checks.com: $0.06 (100 checks for $5.95)
- Sam’s Club: $0.03 (480 checks for $15.33) – Requires membership
- Checks Unlimited: $0.19 (100 checks for $18.99)
Remember: While Super Value Checks offers the lowest per-check cost, consider the total order value, including any shipping fees, before making your final decision.
Ordering checks online: The basics
Before diving into the sea of options for online check-ordering offers, here are some key things to understand:
Single Checks vs. Duplicate Checks
Duplicate checks are a convenient way to keep track of all the checks you write. When you use a duplicate checkbook, after writing a check, you’ll tear out the check itself, leaving behind a copy with all the essential details, such as the payee’s name, amount, and date. This copy is made by a carbon sheet between each check and the duplicate. Thus, you can easily refer back to this copy if there is any ambiguity or discrepancy in your records.
On the other hand, single checks do not have this carbon copy. Checkbooks with only single checks are more affordable but require you to be more vigilant about maintaining your records. You’ll have to keep a record of each check you write, along with the necessary details such as to whom it was issued, the amount, and the date. You’ll also need to verify that the recipient has cashed or deposited the check.
Overall, if you want a convenient and reliable way to keep track of your checks and maintain accurate records, then using a duplicate checkbook is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for an economical option and are willing to take the extra effort to maintain your records, then a checkbook with single checks can be a suitable option for you.
Basic checks vs. high security checks
When it comes to writing checks, security is of utmost importance. Every check comes with some level of security, including using magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) font. This font is specifically designed to help machines easily read and process checks. However, it also serves as an anti-counterfeit measure to prevent fraudulent activities. Look at the bottom left-hand corner to locate your routing and account numbers on a blank check.
If you’re looking for even more security, you can opt for high-security checks. These checks have enhanced safety features that actively discourage fraud attempts and provide users with more protection than basic checks. Some security features of high-security checks include high-resolution borders, chemically sensitive paper, visible and invisible fluorescent fibers, complex color patterns, foil holograms, heat-sensitive ink, and anti-copy technology.
It’s worth noting that EZShield Check Fraud Protection is an add-on service that may come standard with some checks. This service is specifically designed to protect customers against identity theft related to check writing. With EZShield Check Fraud Protection, you can rest assured that your personal information is safe and secure.
How to order checks online
If you find yourself in a situation where you have run out of the free checks that your bank offered you when you created your account, and your bank does not offer additional checks when you run out, then it is advisable to order checks from a third-party vendor to reduce your costs. Here’s how you can do that:
1. Pick a check printer
The best place to buy checks can vary depending on your priorities. Here’s a guide to help you choose a check printer that meets your needs:
- Compare Options: Use a comparison website to see what different check printers offer. This will help you narrow your choices based on price, selection, and features.
- Consider Security: Make sure the check printer you choose is certified by the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA). This ensures the checks meet basic safety standards to help prevent fraud. You can also check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating to see how other customers have rated their service. Avoid companies with a history of complaints or poor ratings.
2. Choose a check type and design
When ordering checks, you can choose between single and duplicate checks. Single checks are just that, a single sheet of paper with a check, while duplicate checks come with a carbon copy underneath the original check. This can help keep accurate records of your transactions.
In addition to choosing between single and duplicate checks, you can decide what security features you want. Some check providers offer basic security features at no additional cost, while others have more advanced options for a fee. These features can include watermarks, holograms, and special inks that make it more difficult for counterfeiters to replicate your checks.
Many providers offer various design options if you would like to express a bit of personality with your checks. You can browse options for your favorite cartoon characters, animals, sports teams, or landmarks. Some providers even allow you to upload your own photos to create a truly personalized check.
It’s important to note that while personalized checks are a fun way to show off your interests, they may come at a higher cost than basic check designs. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, it can be worth it to have checks that make you smile every time you use them!
3. Choose any accessories
When ordering checks online, you’ll usually have the option to add accessories to your order. While these accessories are not required, they can help you keep track of your finances. For example, you may want to consider ordering deposit tickets to make it easier to record deposits made to your account.
Additionally, you may want to order extra check registers to keep track of your transactions, especially if you have multiple accounts. Checkbook covers are another accessory you may want to consider, as they can help protect your checks and keep them organized.
However, it’s important to note that checkbook covers can be reused each time you start a new pack of checks, so you may not need to order a new one every time you order checks. Ultimately, deciding which accessories will be most useful for your needs is up to you.
4. Enter your bank info
When ordering checks online, it is important to have certain information on hand. This includes your checking account and bank routing numbers, so you can ensure that the checks are linked to the correct account. In addition, you will need to provide personal contact information, such as your name, address, and phone number, when personalizing your checks. It is also essential to include your bank’s information, including their name, address, and phone number, on the checks.
Another crucial step when ordering checks is setting the check number. For instance, if your previous checkbook ended at check number 40, starting your next box of checks at 41 is advisable. This helps you keep track of your check usage and simplifies record-keeping on your end. By following these steps, you can ensure that your checks are accurate and personalized to your needs.
5. Choose a shipping method
Free shipping is a great way to save money on getting your checks for non-urgent deliveries. While it may take a bit longer (typically 2-3 weeks), the cost savings can be significant.
If the company offers free tracking, be sure to select it. This will give you peace of mind by letting you monitor the progress of your checks and estimate their arrival date.
6. Review your checks
Look closely at your new checks as soon as you get them. Verify that all the important details are accurate, including:
- Your name
- Your address (or other contact information)
- Your bank account number
- Your bank routing number
Any mistakes with this information could cause problems when using the checks.
How can I get free checks?
When you open a new bank account, the bank usually provides you with a set of free checks to use. However, once you run out of these checks, you will have to get a new set.
While you can buy these checks directly from your bank, you may be able to find cheaper options by purchasing them online. Many websites offer a variety of check designs and formats, and you can compare prices across different vendors to find the best deal. It is also worth noting that some banks may charge a fee for processing external checks, so be sure to check with your bank before making a purchase online.
How much does it cost to order checks?
Writing checks is alive and well! But how much does it cost to stock up on them? The price can vary depending on what features you choose.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Basic checks: These are the most affordable option, costing around 3 to 9 cents each.
- Fancy features: Want duplicate copies or top-notch security measures? Expect to pay a bit more, up to 25 cents per check.
- Designs: If you crave a splash of personality, checks with custom designs or pictures will cost extra.pen_spark
In most cases, shipping is free.
Where is the cheapest place to buy checks?
If you want to order checks online, Walmart Checks is a great option. They offer low prices, a wide selection of designs, and fast shipping, all of which make them a top choice for many customers. Plus, their shipping is completely free, which is a nice bonus.
Another option is Sam’s Club Checks, especially if you’re a member. They offer some of the cheapest checks available, especially if you’re willing to buy in bulk. However, keep in mind that the selection may not be as extensive as some other sites.
Finally, Super Value Checks is another site worth checking out if you’re looking for cheap checks. They offer some of the lowest prices, especially if you only order a small quantity. However, be prepared to pay for shipping, which can add to the cost. Overall, all three of these sites are great options to consider when ordering checks online.
Can I print my own personal checks?
While legal to print your own checks, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks. Banks and merchants may hesitate to accept them if they don’t meet security standards.
For checks to function smoothly, they require specific features:
- Magnetic ink: This special ink allows automated processing by banks.
- Check printing software: This ensures proper formatting and placement of essential elements like routing and account numbers.
- Check stock paper: Security features embedded in the paper help prevent fraud.
While these tools are available, they can add complexity and cost to the process.
What information is required for a check?
When writing a personal check, it is important to include certain details to ensure that it is correctly processed by the bank. These details include your bank’s routing number and a nine-digit code identifying your bank and its location. You will also need to include your account number, typically at the bottom of your check next to the routing number. In addition, you should include the check number, which is a unique identifier for each check you write.
Furthermore, it is essential to include your name and address on the check, as well as the name and address of your bank. This information helps identify you as the account holder and ensures the check is deposited into the correct account. By including all of these details, you can help to ensure that your personal check is processed quickly and accurately by your bank.
The bottom line
While ordering checks online requires some upfront effort, like choosing a reputable website (we recommend checking our list!) and entering your routing number accurately, it can save you money. Plus, the convenience of having your checks delivered straight to your door is unbeatable.
For those wondering about security, look for the safety measures we mentioned earlier, such as the CPSA badge and Better Business Bureau accreditation.