Cashier’s checks are widely used as a secure and guaranteed payment method, especially in situations where a personal check may not be accepted. However, there is often confusion about the availability of blank cashier’s checks. In this article, we will examine the process of obtaining a cashier’s check and address the question of whether it is possible to obtain a blank check.
Understanding Cashier’s Checks
A cashier’s check is a payment instrument issued by a bank or credit union that is drawn on its own funds rather than an individual’s personal account. It is considered a safer form of payment because the bank guarantees the funds. Cashier’s checks are often used for large transactions, such as real estate purchases, or when a guaranteed form of payment is required.
When to Use a Cashier’s Check
Cashier’s checks are often used in situations that require a guaranteed form of payment. Here are some common scenarios where a cashier’s check may be required:
- Real estate transactions: When buying or selling a home, a cashier’s check is often required for the down payment or closing costs.
- Vehicle purchases: Cashier’s checks are often used when buying a car because they provide a secure and verifiable method of payment.
- Large purchases: If you are making a large purchase, such as expensive jewelry or high-end electronics, a cashier’s check can provide peace of mind to the seller.
- Rental deposits: Some landlords may require a cashier’s check for the security deposit or first month’s rent to ensure that the funds are guaranteed.
The Process of Obtaining a Cashier’s Check
To obtain a cashier’s check, you typically follow these steps:
- Visit a bank branch: Locate the nearest branch of your bank or credit union that offers cashier’s checks.
- Provide payee information: Unlike a personal check, a cashier’s check requires you to fill out the payee information on the check itself. You cannot get a blank cashier’s check. It is a good idea to have the payee accompany you to the bank to ensure accurate information.
- Determine the exact amount: Before obtaining a cashier’s check, you must know the exact amount needed. The bank will verify the availability of funds in your account or request payment in advance.
- Bring identification: To obtain a cashier’s check, you must present a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Pay the check and fee: The amount of the cashier’s check, along with any associated fees, will be deducted from your account or collected from you at the time of issuance. Banks usually charge a small fee for issuing a cashier’s check.
- Get a receipt: It is important to get a receipt for the cashier’s check. The receipt shows the check number and date and serves as proof of payment. Keep the receipt in a safe place until the check clears.
The Limitations of Blank Cashier’s Checks
- Payee Information: One of the primary limitations of a blank cashier’s check is the lack of payee information. Unlike personal checks, which allow the account holder to write in the payee’s name, a cashier’s check requires the payee information to be completed by the issuing bank. This ensures that the funds are directed to the intended recipient and minimizes the risk of fraud or misappropriation.
- Bank policy: Financial institutions have specific policies regarding the issuance of cashier’s checks. These policies typically require the account holder to provide payee information at the time of issuance. The bank will not issue a blank cashier’s check as it violates the established procedures and safeguards.
- Verification and security: By completing the payee information on a cashier’s check, the issuing bank can verify the check’s authenticity and ensure that it will be used for legitimate purposes. This verification process adds an extra layer of security and reduces the risk of fraud or unauthorized use.
- Risk of alteration: If a blank check were available, it would pose a significant risk of alteration or misuse. Without the payee information completed, anyone in possession of the check could potentially alter the information and divert the funds to their own account or to another unintended recipient. Requiring the payee information to be completed by the issuing bank ensures that funds are correctly disbursed and reduces the risk of fraudulent activity.
- Compliance: Financial institutions are subject to various regulations and anti-money laundering measures. Requiring the account holder to provide the payee information ensures compliance with these regulations and helps prevent illicit activities such as money laundering or terrorist financing.
Alternative Options
If you need a payment instrument where you can fill in the payee information yourself, money orders are a viable alternative to blank checks. Money orders can be purchased at a variety of locations, including banks, post offices, and retail stores. They offer a similar level of security and guarantee as cashier’s checks, but allow you to specify the payee.
The Bottom line
When you need a secure and guaranteed payment method, a cashier’s check is an excellent option. While you cannot obtain a blank cashier’s check, you can provide the payee information at the bank or use alternative payment instruments such as money orders. Always make sure you have the correct payee information and the exact amount needed before obtaining a cashier’s check. By following the proper procedure, you can rest assured that your payment is secure and backed by the issuing bank.
FAQ
Can you get a blank cashiers check?
You can’t get a “blank” cashier’s check without the payment amount or payee filled in, so you must know your payee’s name and the specific payment amount to get one printed by your bank. Some banks charge a fee of up to $15 for a cashier’s check.
Can you get a cashier’s check for a blank amount?
Know the payee – You cannot get a blank cashier’s check. You must have a payee. A cashier’s check has the payee information completed on the check itself. Unlike a money order, on a cashier’s check you can’t write in the payee information yourself.
Can you get a cashier’s check same day?
Cashier’s checks are also useful in time-sensitive transactions. The funds are usually available immediately—in most cases, the next day.
How do I get a blank check from my bank?
You can get a voided check by going to your bank and asking a teller to print one. There may be a fee for this service. Ask your bank if they have instructions on how to set up direct deposit.
Can I get a cashier’s check if I don’t have an account?
You can usually cash a cashier’s check at the issuing bank, regardless of the amount it’s drawn for once you endorse it, even if you don’t have an account there. Alternatively, it’s possible to cash a cashier’s check at a check-cashing store, but there might be a fee.
Can you get blank money orders?
You can fill this information out later, but a blank money order (as long as the cash amount is on it) is as good as cash if it’s lost or stolen. Also, bring a debit card or cash to pay for your money order, unless you’re at your bank and can withdraw it from your account.
Which is better cashiers check or certified check?
The bank guarantees a cashier’s check—meaning the bank is held responsible if the check bounces. With a certified check, you guarantee the check you write from your account. That makes cashier’s checks safer and potentially slightly more expensive to obtain.
Can I get a cashier’s check at Walmart?
Walmart MoneyCenter Products and Services
Walmart is not a bank and cannot issue a cashier’s check. A Walmart MoneyCenter, however, can perform various financial transactions on behalf of customers. Walmart MoneyCenters offer the following services and products: Credit cards.
How do I obtain a cashier’s check?
To get a cashier’s check at a branch, you’ll just need to:
- Get your information together. You’ll need the exact name of the payee and the amount for the check.
- See a teller. A teller can supply you with a cashier’s check.
- Pay any applicable check fee. Most banks and credit unions charge a fee for cashier’s checks.