"How much are checks at Wells Fargo?" – This is a question many Wells Fargo account holders ask, and the answer isn't always a straightforward single price. The cost of checks can vary significantly based on several factors, including your account type, the style of checks you choose, and where you order them from. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting checks for your Wells Fargo account, from understanding the pricing to the step-by-step ordering process.
Let's dive in and demystify the world of Wells Fargo checks!
Step 1: Understanding the Factors That Influence Check Costs
Before we even talk about specific numbers, let's understand why the price of checks isn't a "one-size-fits-all" scenario. Engaging with this first step means recognizing the nuances that can impact your final cost.
- Your Wells Fargo Account Type: This is perhaps the most significant factor. Some premium checking accounts at Wells Fargo, like the Premier Checking account, may offer free personal wallet checks as a benefit. Basic or everyday checking accounts, however, typically do not include free checks, and you'll need to purchase them.
- Check Style and Design: Just like choosing a car, the more features and "flair" you want, the more you'll likely pay.
- Standard checks (basic designs, often with just the bank logo) are generally the most affordable.
- Custom designs (scenic, themed, or personalized with images) will come at a higher price.
- Specialty checks like "side tear" or "top stub" checks might also have different pricing than standard wallet checks.
- Quantity: Buying in bulk often leads to a lower per-box cost. Ordering more boxes at once usually results in a better value than ordering a single box frequently.
- Ordering Method: While Wells Fargo offers direct ordering, third-party check printers can sometimes offer lower prices, though it's crucial to ensure their checks are fully compatible and secure.
- Expedited Shipping: If you're in a hurry to get your checks, paying for expedited shipping will, of course, increase the overall cost.
Step 2: Estimating the Cost of Checks at Wells Fargo (General Ranges)
While Wells Fargo doesn't publicly list a single price for all checks (as it varies so much), we can provide some general ranges based on common practices and available information. It's important to note that these are estimates and the exact price will be provided during your ordering process.
- For Everyday Checking Accounts and Similar:
- A single box of standard personal checks (typically 100-150 checks) can range from $20 to $40 or more.
- Duplicate checks (which provide a carbon copy for your records) often cost slightly more, perhaps in the range of $25 to $50 per box.
- Custom designs or checks with enhanced security features can push the price higher, potentially into the $30 to $60+ range per box.
- For Premier or Relationship Accounts:
- As mentioned, some premium accounts, like the Premier Checking account, may include free personal wallet checks. It's vital to confirm this benefit with Wells Fargo directly or by checking your account's fee schedule.
- Business Checks:
- Business checks come in various formats (manual, laser, 3-per-page) and are generally more expensive than personal checks due to their specialized nature and larger quantities. Prices can range from $50 to $100+ per box or package, depending on the type, quantity, and customization.
Step 3: The Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Checks from Wells Fargo
Now that you have a grasp on the potential costs, let's walk through the process of ordering checks directly from Wells Fargo. This is generally the most straightforward and secure method.
Sub-heading: Method 1: Ordering Online (Recommended for convenience)
This is often the quickest and easiest way to reorder checks if your information hasn't changed.
- Sign On to Wells Fargo Online®: Open your web browser and navigate to the Wells Fargo website. Log in to your online banking account using your username and password.
- Navigate to the "Accounts" Tab: Once logged in, look for the "Accounts" tab or section. This is usually where you manage all your checking, savings, and other accounts.
- Find "Order Checks & Currency" or "Account Services": Within the "Accounts" section, you'll typically find a link or option related to "Order Checks & Currency" or "Account Services" which will then lead you to "Order Checks." Click on this.
- Select the Account: If you have multiple Wells Fargo accounts, you'll need to select the specific checking account for which you want to order checks. Double-check that you've selected the correct account!
- Review and Confirm Your Information: The system will usually pre-populate your name, address, and account number. Carefully review all this information to ensure it's accurate and up-to-date. If there are any discrepancies, you might need to update your contact information with Wells Fargo before proceeding.
- Choose Your Check Style and Quantity: You'll be presented with various check designs and quantities.
- Browse through the available styles (standard, scenic, security, etc.).
- Select the quantity of check boxes you want to order. Remember, ordering more might offer a better per-box price.
- Pay attention to the displayed price for each option.
- Add Any Customization (Optional): Some check styles might allow for customization, such as adding a logo (for business checks) or a specific font. If you choose this, be aware it may incur additional costs.
- Review Your Order Summary: Before finalizing, you'll see a complete summary of your order, including the total cost, shipping fees (if any), and estimated delivery date. This is your chance to catch any errors.
- Confirm and Place Order: Once you're satisfied with everything, proceed to confirm and place your order. The cost will typically be debited directly from your Wells Fargo checking account.
Sub-heading: Method 2: Ordering by Phone
If you prefer to speak with someone or don't have online banking access, ordering by phone is a viable option.
- Gather Your Account Information: Have your Wells Fargo checking account number and routing number readily available.
- Call Wells Fargo Customer Service:
- For Personal Accounts: Call 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).
- For Business Accounts: You might be directed to call Harland Clarke Corp., a major check printer for Wells Fargo, at 1-800-237-8982.
- Inform the Representative: Tell the customer service representative that you wish to order new checks for your account.
- Provide Details and Choose Checks: The representative will guide you through the process, confirm your account details, and help you select your preferred check style and quantity. They will also inform you of the exact cost.
- Confirm Payment and Delivery: Confirm how the payment will be handled (usually debited from your account) and get an estimated delivery timeframe.
Sub-heading: Method 3: Ordering In-Branch
For those who prefer a face-to-face interaction or need temporary checks immediately, visiting a branch is an option.
- Visit Your Local Wells Fargo Branch: Find the nearest Wells Fargo branch location.
- Speak with a Banker: Inform a banker that you need to order checks.
- Provide Account Information: You'll need to provide your account details and possibly show a valid ID for verification.
- Select Checks and Pay: The banker will assist you in selecting the type of checks you need and inform you of the cost. You can typically pay for them directly from your account.
- Temporary Checks (if needed): If you need a few checks immediately while you wait for your full order, the branch may be able to provide temporary checks, often for a small fee per sheet.
Step 4: Receiving Your Checks
After placing your order, here's what to expect regarding delivery:
- Standard Delivery: Checks typically arrive within 7-10 business days via standard mail. This timeframe can vary, so always check the estimated delivery date during the ordering process.
- Expedited Shipping: If you paid for expedited shipping, your checks will arrive much faster, usually within 2-3 business days, but this comes at an additional cost.
- Tracking: Depending on how you ordered and the provider, you might receive a tracking number to monitor your check delivery.
Step 5: Considering Alternatives (and their implications)
While ordering directly from Wells Fargo is the most common approach, some third-party check printers specialize in offering checks at potentially lower prices.
- Third-Party Check Printers: Companies like Harland Clarke (Wells Fargo's primary check provider) or other independent check printing services (e.g., Carousel Checks, Extra Value Checks) often advertise lower prices.
- Pros: Potentially lower cost, wider variety of designs.
- Cons: You'll need to manually input your Wells Fargo routing and account numbers, increasing the chance of error. Ensure the printer is reputable and secure to protect your financial information. Wells Fargo themselves generally recommend ordering through their official channels for security and accuracy.
Important Note: Always exercise caution when ordering checks from third-party vendors. Ensure they are legitimate and secure to protect your sensitive banking information.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if my Wells Fargo account offers free checks?
Quick Answer: Review your account's fee schedule, which is usually available in your online banking documents or by asking a Wells Fargo representative. Premium accounts like Premier Checking often include free personal wallet checks.
How to reorder checks if my address has changed?
Quick Answer: You must update your address with Wells Fargo first, either online, by phone, or in a branch, before placing a check order to ensure your new checks are sent to the correct location.
How to order temporary checks from Wells Fargo?
Quick Answer: Visit a Wells Fargo branch in person. A banker can typically provide you with a few temporary checks immediately for a small fee.
How to find my Wells Fargo routing and account number for ordering checks?
Quick Answer: Your routing and account numbers are printed on your existing checks. You can also find them by logging into Wells Fargo Online, on your monthly bank statement, or by contacting customer service.
How to get a copy of a cancelled check from Wells Fargo?
Quick Answer: You can view and print digital images of cancelled checks for free by signing on to Wells Fargo Online. For older checks or paper copies, you may need to request them through customer service, which might incur a fee.
How to stop payment on a Wells Fargo check?
Quick Answer: You can place a stop payment online through Wells Fargo Online, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch. A fee usually applies for stop payment requests.
How to know the exact cost of checks before ordering?
Quick Answer: When ordering online through Wells Fargo Online, the system will display the total cost of your selected checks, including any shipping fees, before you confirm your order. If ordering by phone or in-branch, the representative will provide the exact price.
How to expedite delivery of my Wells Fargo checks?
Quick Answer: During the online ordering process or when speaking with a representative, you'll typically have the option to select expedited shipping for an additional fee.
How to customize my Wells Fargo checks?
Quick Answer: During the online ordering process, Wells Fargo's check ordering portal (often powered by Harland Clarke) will present various customization options, such as different designs, fonts, or even adding personal images for an extra cost.
How to report a lost or stolen Wells Fargo checkbook?
Quick Answer: Immediately contact Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557) to report the lost or stolen checkbook and inquire about stop payments on any potentially compromised checks.
