what is the best place to order checks online are Checks Unlimited, Costco Checks, CheckAdvantage, and Bradford Exchange Checks—all offering lower prices and more design options than your bank. Most banks charge $25–$35 per box, while these third-party services typically charge $7–$18 for the same quantity. In 2026, Checks.com is also a top contender for its frequent “buy one, get one” offers for new customers, while Walmart Checks remains the price leader for basic high-security designs.
Yes, paper checks are still used – for rent payments, small businesses, tax payments, and anyone who prefers not to use digital transfers. And no, ordering from a third-party service is not less secure than ordering from your bank, as long as you use a reputable provider.
Best Places to Order Checks Online (2024-2025)
| Company | Price Per Box (200 checks) | Security Features | Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Checks Unlimited | $7-$15 | High-security, watermarks, microprinting | 5-10 business days | Best overall value |
| Costco Checks | $6-$12 (members) | Standard bank-grade security | 7-10 business days | Costco members |
| CheckAdvantage | $8-$16 | Fraud protection features included | 5-7 business days | Design variety |
| Bradford Exchange Checks | $15-$25 | Standard security | 7-14 business days | Unique artistic designs |
| Sam’s Club Checks | $7-$14 (members) | Bank-approved security | 7-10 business days | Sam’s Club members |
| Carousel Checks | $8-$16 | Full security suite | 5-10 business days | Personalization options |
| Your Bank (e.g., Chase) | $25-$40 | Bank-grade | 3-5 business days | Convenience only |
Are Third-Party Checks Safe?
Yes – third-party checks from reputable companies are just as secure as bank-issued checks. They use the same MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) encoding, the same routing/account number system, and often include additional fraud protection features like:
- Watermarks that show ‘VOID’ if photocopied.
- Microprinting along the signature line that’s invisible to forgers.
- Chemical sensitivity paper that changes color if tampered with.
- Holograms and color-shifting ink on premium check designs.
What to Look for When Ordering
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| MICR encoding | Required for bank processing – all reputable sites include this |
| Security features | Look for at least 3-4 fraud protection features |
| Reorder ease | Save your info so future orders take 2 minutes |
| Custom options | Name, address, logo (for business checks) |
| Delivery speed | Standard is 7-10 days; expedited available for $5-$10 more |
| Return policy | Good companies will reprint if there’s an error |
How to Order Checks Online – Step by Step
- Go to a reputable third-party site (Checks Unlimited, CheckAdvantage, etc.).
- Enter your bank’s routing number and your account number (found on your existing checks or bank statement).
- Choose your check style, quantity, and personalization options.
- Verify all details carefully – errors mean a reorder.
- Choose shipping speed and checkout.
Tips to Save Money on Checks
- Buy in bulk – 200 or 400 checks per box is cheaper per check than 100.
- Use coupon codes – most check sites offer 20-30% off first orders.
- Costco or Sam’s Club checks are the cheapest if you have a membership.
- Skip the fancy designs – basic check styles cost significantly less.
There’s no reason to pay bank prices for checks when third-party services offer the same quality at half the cost. Order once, set up your reorder profile, and you’ll save $15-$25 every time going forward.
