Even in todayโs digital age, checks remain a reliable way to make payments, especially for rent, bills, and business transactions. But how much does it cost to get a checkbook? Whether youโre ordering checks from your bank, an online provider, or a retailer, prices vary based on design, quantity, and security features.
In this guide, weโll break down checkbook costs, ordering options, alternatives, and a step-by-step guide on how to sign a check properly!
๐ฒ How Much Does a Checkbook Cost? (By Provider)
Checkbook costs depend on where you order them and whether you choose basic checks, custom designs, or security-enhanced versions. Hereโs a comparison of common providers:
Provider |
Cost (USD) |
Checks Per Book |
Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
Bank-Issued Checks ๐ฆ |
$15 โ $40 |
100 โ 200 |
Most banks charge fees but offer customization. |
Walmart Checks ๐ |
$7 โ $20 |
120 โ 200 |
Budget-friendly and offers basic or themed designs. |
Deluxe Checks โจ |
$20 โ $40 |
100 โ 200 |
High-security business and personal checks. |
Costco Checks ๐ |
$12 โ $20 (members) |
200 โ 400 |
Discounted bulk pricing for members. |
Checks Unlimited ๐ |
$10 โ $35 |
100 โ 200 |
Offers security features and designer checks. |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you write a lot of checks, Costco and Walmart often offer the best bulk deals!
๐ Ordering Checks: Where to Buy & What to Expect
Depending on your preference, you can order checks through your bank or a third-party provider. Hereโs what you need to know:
Order Source |
Pros |
Cons |
---|---|---|
Bank Directly ๐ฆ |
Secure and guaranteed by your bank. |
Usually more expensive than online retailers. |
Online Retailers ๐ |
Lower prices and customization options. |
May take longer for delivery. |
Big-Box Retailers ๐ |
Affordable and easy to order in-store or online. |
Limited high-security options. |
๐ก Fun Fact: The first checkbook was issued in England in 1762, long before credit cards and online banking!
๐ Types of Checks & Their Costs
Not all checks are the sameโsome offer extra security, branding, or special features. Hereโs a breakdown:
Check Type |
Average Cost (USD) |
Best For |
---|---|---|
Personal Checks ๐ |
$10 โ $40 |
Everyday payments and rent. |
Business Checks ๐ข |
$25 โ $60 |
Payroll, invoices, and vendors. |
High-Security Checks ๐ |
$30 โ $80 |
Protecting against fraud and counterfeiting. |
Carbon Copy Checks ๐ |
$20 โ $50 |
Keeping written records for personal or business use. |
๐ก Pro Tip: High-security checks come with watermarks and holograms, making them harder to counterfeit.
๐ How to Sign a Check Properly
If youโre new to using checks, signing a check correctly is crucial to prevent fraud or check rejection. Follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide to Signing a Check
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Step 1: Write the date in the top right corner.
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Step 2: Write the recipient’s name on the “Pay to the Order of” line.
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Step 3: Enter the dollar amount in numbers in the box.
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Step 4: Write the dollar amount in words to prevent alterations.
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Step 5: Sign your name at the bottom right.
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Step 6: Add a memo (optional) for reference (e.g., “Rent Payment”).
Step |
What to Do |
Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
1. Date |
Write todayโs date. |
Ensures the check is valid. |
2. Payee Name |
Enter recipientโs name. |
Prevents unauthorized use. |
3. Amount in Numbers |
$250.00 |
Ensures accuracy. |
4. Amount in Words |
โTwo hundred fifty dollars and 00/100โ |
Prevents fraud. |
5. Signature |
Your legal signature. |
Authorizes payment. |
6. Memo (Optional) |
โJuly Rentโ |
Helps with bookkeeping. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always use a blue or black ink pen when writing a check to prevent alterations.
๐ต Alternatives to Using a Checkbook
If you donโt want to deal with checkbooks, here are some modern alternatives:
Payment Method |
Cost (USD) |
Best For |
---|---|---|
Online Bill Pay ๐ฆ |
Free (through most banks) |
Paying recurring bills. |
Money Orders ๐ต |
$1 โ $5 |
Secure one-time payments. |
Wire Transfers โก |
$15 โ $50+ |
Large transactions or international payments. |
Digital Payments ๐ฑ |
Free โ $2 per transaction |
Quick peer-to-peer transfers (Venmo, PayPal, Zelle). |
๐ก Pro Tip: Some landlords and businesses still prefer checks, so having a checkbook handy can be useful!
๐ฅ Final Thoughts: Is a Checkbook Worth the Cost?
Checkbooks are still widely used for rent, business payments, and transactions where electronic payments arenโt accepted. While they come at a cost, they offer security and a reliable backup payment option.
Best Option |
Average Cost (USD) |
Best For |
---|---|---|
Bank-Issued Checks |
$15 โ $40 |
Secure and traditional. |
Walmart Checks |
$7 โ $20 |
Affordable and easy to order. |
Costco Bulk Checks |
$12 โ $20 |
Best value for frequent check writers. |
Online Digital Payments |
Free โ $2 per transfer |
Faster and more convenient. |
๐ฌ Do you still use a checkbook, or have you gone completely digital? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts! โ๏ธ๐ต๐
This guide covers everything you need to know about checkbook costs, signing a check, and modern payment alternatives. Share it with anyone still writing checks! ๐ข๐ก