A Comprehensive Guide: How to Get Checks from Ally Bank
Are you an Ally Bank customer who needs to order checks for your Spending Account or Money Market Account? Perhaps you're used to traditional banks where ordering checks is a simple in-branch request, and now you're wondering how an online-only bank handles it. You've come to the right place! This lengthy guide will walk you through every step of getting checks from Ally Bank, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Step 1: Discovering Your Need for Checks and Why Ally Makes it Easy
So, you need checks, huh? Maybe you're paying rent, sending a gift, or simply prefer the traditional method for certain transactions. With Ally Bank, an online-only institution, the process for obtaining checks is designed to be as convenient as possible, fitting right into their digital-first philosophy.
The good news is that Ally Bank provides standard checks at no charge for its Spending (checking) accounts and Money Market accounts. This is a fantastic perk, as many traditional banks charge fees for check orders. Ally's commitment to low or no fees extends to many aspects of their banking, including check orders, monthly maintenance fees, and even ATM fee reimbursements.
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly touch on why you might appreciate Ally's approach:
Convenience: Order from the comfort of your home, 24/7.
Cost-Effective: Standard checks are free!
Security: Online platforms are secured with multiple layers of protection.
Ready to get started? Let's proceed to the actual steps!
Step 2: Accessing Your Ally Bank Account (The Gateway to Your Checks)
To order checks from Ally Bank, the first crucial step is to log in to your account. You have two primary options: the Ally Bank website or the Ally Mobile App.
Sub-heading: Logging in via the Ally Bank Website
Open your web browser: Navigate to
ally.com.Locate the "Log In" button: This is typically found in the top right corner of the homepage. Click on it.
Enter your credentials: You'll be prompted to enter your User ID and Password. Make sure you're typing them carefully.
Complete any security verification: Depending on your security settings, you might need to complete a two-factor authentication (e.g., a code sent to your phone or email) to fully access your account.
Sub-heading: Logging in via the Ally Mobile App
Open the Ally Mobile App: Tap on the Ally Bank app icon on your smartphone or tablet.
Enter your login details: You'll use your User ID and Password, similar to the website.
Utilize biometric login (if enabled): If you've set up fingerprint or facial recognition, you can use that for a faster login experience.
Complete any security verification: Just like the website, you might encounter additional security steps.
Once you're successfully logged in, you'll be on your "Snapshot" or account dashboard, where you can see all your Ally Bank accounts.
Step 3: Navigating to the Check Order Section
Now that you're in your account, it's time to find the specific section for ordering checks. The exact wording might vary slightly, but the general path is consistent.
Sub-heading: Ordering Checks through the Website
Select your eligible account: From your account dashboard (Snapshot), click on the Spending Account or Money Market Account for which you wish to order checks.
Look for "More" or "Manage": Once you've selected the account, you'll typically see options like "More" or "Manage" associated with that account. Click on the relevant option.
Find "Order Checks": Within the expanded options, you should see "Order Checks." Click on it.
Sub-heading: Ordering Checks through the Mobile App
Select your eligible account: From your account list, tap on the Spending Account or Money Market Account you want checks for.
Tap on "More": On the account details screen, look for a "More" option, often represented by three dots or a similar icon.
Select "Order Checks & Deposit Slips": This will lead you to the check ordering interface.
You're almost there! The next step involves confirming details and submitting your order.
Step 4: Confirming Details and Submitting Your Order
This is where you finalize your check order. Ally Bank makes this process straightforward, largely because they offer standard checks at no cost.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Information
Verify the mailing address: It's crucial to confirm that the mailing address displayed is correct. This is where your checks will be sent. If it's incorrect, you'll need to update your address with Ally Bank before proceeding. You can usually do this in your profile settings or by contacting customer service.
Confirm the account selected: Double-check that you're ordering checks for the correct Spending or Money Market Account.
Understand the "no charge" policy: Ally will reiterate that standard checks are provided at no charge. You won't see a cost associated with the order.
Sub-heading: Placing the Order
Click "Submit Order" or "Place Order": Once you've reviewed everything and are satisfied, click the button to submit your request.
Receive confirmation: You should receive an on-screen confirmation that your order has been placed. You might also receive an email confirmation.
That's it for the ordering process! Now, let's talk about what happens next.
Step 5: Anticipating the Arrival of Your Checks
After you've submitted your order, the waiting game begins. But how long will it be until those fresh checks arrive in your mailbox?
Sub-heading: Delivery Timeline
General Arrival Time: Ally Bank typically states that standard checks will arrive within 7 to 10 business days after your request is submitted.
New Accounts: If you're ordering checks for a newly opened account, they generally arrive within 10 business days after you make your initial deposit to fund the account. This ensures the account is active and ready for transactions.
One Order at a Time: Keep in mind that Ally generally allows only one standard check order per checking account at a time. If you need more, you'll have to wait until your current order is processed and received before placing another.
Sub-heading: What to Do if Your Checks Don't Arrive
If 10 business days have passed and you haven't received your checks, don't panic.
Check your mailing address again: Double-check your Ally Bank profile to ensure the mailing address on file is accurate.
Contact Ally Bank Customer Service: The best course of action is to call Ally Bank's customer service at 1-877-247-2559. They are available 24/7 and can track your order or help you place a new one if necessary.
Step 6: Utilizing Your Ally Bank Checks
Once your checks arrive, you can use them just like any other personal checks.
Sub-heading: How to Fill Out a Check
Date: Write the current date in the top right corner.
Pay to the Order Of: Write the full name of the person or company you are paying.
Dollar Amount (Numeric): Write the numerical amount of the payment in the small box to the right.
Dollar Amount (Written): Write the numerical amount in words on the line below "Pay to the Order Of."
Memo: (Optional) Use this line to briefly describe the purpose of the check (e.g., "July Rent," "Birthday Gift").
Signature: Sign your name on the bottom right line.
Sub-heading: Keeping Your Checks Secure
Store them safely: Keep your checkbook in a secure location to prevent unauthorized use.
Monitor your account: Regularly check your Ally Bank account activity to ensure all transactions are legitimate.
Destroy old checks: If you have any unused checks from a closed account or old checks with outdated information, shred them before discarding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ally Bank Checks
Here are 10 common questions about getting and using checks with Ally Bank:
How to order checks from Ally Bank online?
To order checks online, log in to your Ally Bank account at ally.com, select your Spending or Money Market Account, click on "More" or "Manage," and then select "Order Checks."
How to get free checks from Ally Bank?
Ally Bank provides standard checks at no charge for its Spending and Money Market accounts. You simply order them through their website or mobile app as described above.
How to find my Ally Bank account number and routing number for checks?
You can find your account number and routing number by logging into your Ally Bank account online or via the mobile app. These numbers are typically displayed prominently on your account details page. They are also printed on your checks.
How to track my Ally Bank check order?
While there isn't a direct tracking number for check orders, if your checks don't arrive within 7-10 business days, you should contact Ally Bank customer service at 1-877-247-2559 to inquire about the status.
How to change my address for Ally Bank checks?
You'll need to update your mailing address within your Ally Bank profile settings online or through the mobile app before placing a check order. If you're having trouble, contact customer service for assistance.
How to get expedited check delivery from Ally Bank?
Ally Bank generally offers standard delivery for free checks. For expedited delivery, you might need to contact customer service directly to see if it's an option and if any fees apply.
How to order checks for an Ally Bank Money Market Account?
The process is the same as ordering for a Spending Account: log in online or through the app, select your Money Market Account, and navigate to the "Order Checks" option.
How to deposit a check into my Ally Bank account without a physical check?
Ally Bank offers convenient eCheck Deposit through their mobile app (by taking photos of the check) or online (by scanning and uploading images of the check). You can also mail checks for deposit.
How to stop payment on an Ally Bank check?
To stop payment on a check, you will need to contact Ally Bank customer service as soon as possible. There may be a fee associated with stop payment requests.
How to order additional checkbooks from Ally Bank?
After your initial standard check order has been received, you can usually place subsequent orders for additional checkbooks through the same online or app process. Remember, only one standard order per account may be active at a time.
