You're about to make a significant payment, and you're considering a cashier's check from Wells Fargo – a very smart move! Cashier's checks offer a higher level of security than personal checks because the funds are guaranteed by the bank itself. This makes them ideal for large transactions like buying a car, making a down payment on a home, or settling a major debt.
But before you head to the bank, you might be wondering: "How much is a cashier's check at Wells Fargo?" This lengthy guide will break down everything you need to know, from the cost to the process, ensuring you're fully prepared.
Step 1: Let's Talk About That Fee, Shall We?
So, you're curious about the price tag, right? At Wells Fargo, a cashier's check generally costs $10 each. Yes, you read that correctly – ten dollars for this secure form of payment.
Now, while $10 is the standard fee for Wells Fargo checking and/or savings customers, it's always a good idea to confirm this with a Wells Fargo representative or check your specific account's fee schedule. Some premium accounts or relationships might offer fee waivers, so it never hurts to ask if that applies to you!
- Online Orders: If you opt to order a cashier's check online through Wells Fargo Online for amounts up to $2,000, keep in mind there might be an additional $8 delivery charge if you want it delivered to a U.S. address. So, an online order with delivery could cost you $18 ($10 fee + $8 delivery). For larger amounts, you'll need to visit a branch in person.
Step 2: Understanding What a Cashier's Check Is (and Isn't)
Before diving into the "how-to," let's quickly clarify what a cashier's check is and why it's different from other payment methods.
Sub-heading: What is a Cashier's Check?
A cashier's check is a check guaranteed by the bank that issues it. This means the funds are drawn directly from the bank's own account after they've already withdrawn the money from your account. It's essentially a pre-paid and bank-backed payment. This makes it a very secure form of payment for the recipient, as there's virtually no risk of it bouncing.
Sub-heading: Cashier's Check vs. Money Order vs. Personal Check
- Cashier's Check: Bank-guaranteed, generally for larger amounts (though can be for any amount). Funds are pulled from your account first.
- Money Order: Also a pre-paid instrument, but typically for smaller amounts (often capped at $1,000). Available at banks, post offices, and some retail stores. Wells Fargo charges $5 for a money order.
- Personal Check: Drawn directly from your personal checking account. The funds are not guaranteed until the check clears, which can take a few business days. There's a risk of insufficient funds if your account doesn't have enough money.
Step 3: Gathering Your Essentials – What You'll Need
To get a cashier's check at Wells Fargo, you'll need a few key pieces of information and items. Being prepared will make the process smooth and quick.
Sub-heading: What to Bring to the Bank
- Your Wells Fargo Account Information: This includes your account number for the checking or savings account from which the funds will be drawn.
- Sufficient Funds: Crucially, you must have enough money in your account to cover the full amount of the cashier's check, plus the $10 fee. The bank will immediately withdraw these funds.
- Valid Photo Identification: A government-issued ID like a driver's license, state ID, or passport is essential for identity verification.
- Payee Information: You'll need the exact and complete name of the person or entity you are paying. Double-check the spelling!
- The Exact Amount: Know the precise dollar amount you need the cashier's check to be for.
Step 4: The Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Your Cashier's Check
Ready to get that cashier's check? Here's how it generally works at Wells Fargo:
Sub-heading: In-Person at a Wells Fargo Branch (Recommended for Larger Amounts)
- Locate Your Nearest Wells Fargo Branch: You can use the Wells Fargo website or mobile app to find a branch near you.
- Speak to a Teller or Banker: Inform them you wish to obtain a cashier's check.
- Provide Your Account Details and ID: They will ask for your Wells Fargo account number and your valid photo identification to verify your identity and access your account.
- State the Payee's Name and Amount: Clearly provide the full legal name of the payee (the person or company you are paying) and the exact dollar amount the check should be for.
- Confirm the Fee: The teller will inform you of the $10 fee (or if it's waived for your account type). The total amount (check amount + fee) will be deducted from your account.
- Review and Receive the Check: The teller will print the cashier's check. Carefully review all details on the check, including the payee's name and the amount, before leaving the counter.
- Keep Your Receipt: You will receive a receipt for the transaction. Keep this for your records, as it serves as proof of purchase and can be helpful if there are any issues later on (e.g., a lost or stolen check).
Sub-heading: Online Ordering (For amounts up to $2,000)
- Sign On to Wells Fargo Online: Access your online banking account.
- Navigate to "Order Checks & Currency": This option is typically found under the "Accounts" tab or a similar section.
- Select "Cashier's Checks": Follow the prompts to initiate a cashier's check order.
- Enter Details: You'll need to input the payee's name, the amount (up to $2,000 for online orders), and your delivery preferences.
- Review Fees and Confirm: The system will show you the $10 fee plus any applicable delivery charges ($8 for U.S. delivery). Confirm the transaction.
- Delivery: The check will be mailed to the specified address. Allow a few business days for delivery, especially if shipping to Alaska or Hawaii. Wells Fargo does not deliver to P.O. Boxes for cashier's checks.
Step 5: What Happens After You Get the Check?
Once you have your cashier's check, it's ready to be given to the payee.
Sub-heading: Security and Tracking
- No Stop Payments (Generally): Unlike personal checks, cashier's checks are difficult to stop payment on once issued because the bank has already guaranteed the funds. In very limited circumstances (e.g., lost or stolen), a stop payment and reissuance might be possible, but it often involves a lengthy waiting period (e.g., 90 days) or the purchase of a surety bond.
- Record Keeping: Always keep a copy of the cashier's check (front and back) and your receipt. This information is crucial for your records and if any disputes arise.
Step 6: What If You're Not a Wells Fargo Customer?
If you don't have an account with Wells Fargo, getting a cashier's check from them can be challenging, if not impossible. Most banks, including Wells Fargo, primarily offer cashier's checks to their account holders. This is because they need to verify your identity and withdraw funds from an existing, trusted account.
Sub-heading: Alternatives for Non-Customers
- Open an Account: The easiest solution is often to open a checking or savings account with Wells Fargo (or another bank) if you anticipate needing cashier's checks regularly.
- Consider a Money Order: For smaller amounts (typically up to $1,000), a money order might be an option. You can usually purchase these at post offices, some grocery stores, and other financial institutions, often for a lower fee than a cashier's check.
- Ask Your Bank: If you have an account with another bank, inquire if they issue cashier's checks to their customers. This is generally the most straightforward path.
- Wire Transfer: For very large sums where a cashier's check isn't feasible, a wire transfer is another secure option, though it typically comes with higher fees.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about cashier's checks at Wells Fargo:
How to verify a Wells Fargo cashier's check?
You can verify a Wells Fargo cashier's check by calling Wells Fargo directly (use a publicly listed number, not a number on the check itself, as it could be fraudulent). Provide the check number, amount, and payee details to the bank representative for verification.
How to fill out a Wells Fargo cashier's check?
You generally don't fill out a cashier's check yourself. The bank teller or the online system will print all the necessary information, including the date, payee's name, and amount, directly on the check. Your role is primarily to provide the correct information.
How to deposit a Wells Fargo cashier's check?
You can deposit a Wells Fargo cashier's check into your bank account through an ATM, mobile deposit via the Wells Fargo app, or by visiting a Wells Fargo branch. Endorse the back of the check with your signature and "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" if using the mobile app.
How to cash a Wells Fargo cashier's check?
To cash a Wells Fargo cashier's check, visit a Wells Fargo branch. You will likely need to present valid photo identification. If you don't have an account with Wells Fargo, they may charge a check-cashing fee or only cash it if you have an account with them. It's generally better to deposit it into your own bank account.
How to cancel a Wells Fargo cashier's check?
Canceling a cashier's check is very difficult because the funds are guaranteed. If the check is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can request a stop payment and reissuance at a branch. This often involves a waiting period (e.g., 90 days, or 30/91 days in certain states) or the purchase of a surety bond to protect the bank.
How to replace a lost Wells Fargo cashier's check?
If your Wells Fargo cashier's check is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must visit a Wells Fargo branch to request a stop payment and reissuance. Be prepared for potential waiting periods or the requirement of a surety bond, especially for checks over $1,000.
How to know if a Wells Fargo cashier's check is fake?
Look for security features (watermarks, microprinting), verify the routing and account numbers, and call Wells Fargo directly (using a number from their official website, not on the check) to confirm its legitimacy before accepting it, especially in high-value transactions or from unknown parties. Be wary of checks for more than the agreed-upon amount with requests to send back the difference.
How to order a Wells Fargo cashier's check online?
Wells Fargo checking and/or savings customers can order cashier's checks online for amounts up to $2,000 by signing into Wells Fargo Online and navigating to "Order Checks & Currency" under the "Accounts" tab. There will be an $8 delivery fee in addition to the $10 check fee for U.S. addresses.
How to find Wells Fargo cashier's check limits?
While there isn't an upper limit on the value for an in-person cashier's check at a Wells Fargo branch, online orders are capped at $2,000. For very large amounts, banks may have internal reporting requirements (like Currency Transaction Reports for transactions over $10,000).
How to contact Wells Fargo for cashier's check information?
You can contact Wells Fargo for cashier's check information by calling their customer service line (1-800-TO-WELLS or 1-800-869-3557) or by visiting a local Wells Fargo branch and speaking with a banker or teller.
