Want to get your hands on some new checks for your Wells Fargo account? Whether you're running low, starting a new account, or just prefer having physical checks on hand, Wells Fargo makes the process relatively straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you get your checks without a hitch.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Order? Verify Your Needs and Account Details
Before you even think about placing an order, let's make sure you're fully prepared. This initial step is crucial to avoid any delays or issues.
What Kind of Checks Do You Need?
- Personal Checks: These are for your everyday banking needs, writing checks for rent, bills, or personal payments.
- Business Checks: If you have a business account, you'll need checks designed for business transactions, often with more space for details or logos.
- Cashier's Checks: These are guaranteed by the bank and are typically used for large purchases, like a down payment on a house. Note: You generally obtain these individually from a branch or, for amounts up to $2,000, sometimes online, rather than ordering a full book.
Gather Your Account Information
You'll need a few key pieces of information readily available:
- Your Wells Fargo Account Number: This is essential for linking the checks to the correct account.
- Your Wells Fargo Routing Number: This nine-digit number identifies your bank and is usually found on the bottom left of your existing checks.
- Your Personal Information: This includes your full name, address, and potentially your phone number as it appears on your Wells Fargo account.
- Last Check Number Used (if reordering): This helps ensure your new checks pick up where your old ones left off.
Pro Tip: Having an old check handy can make this step a breeze as all the necessary numbers are right there!
Step 2: Choosing Your Ordering Method - Online, Phone, or In-Branch
Wells Fargo offers several convenient ways to order checks. Pick the one that best suits your comfort level and schedule.
Option 1: Ordering Checks Online (Recommended for most users!)
This is often the quickest and most convenient method, available 24/7.
- Sub-step 2.1: Sign On to Wells Fargo Online®.
- Go to the official Wells Fargo website (wellsfargo.com).
- Locate the "Sign On" button and enter your username and password. If you don't have online access, you'll need to enroll first. This typically involves providing your account information and setting up security questions.
- Sub-step 2.2: Navigate to the Check Ordering Section.
- Once signed in, look for an "Accounts" tab or section.
- Within the "Accounts" section, you'll usually find an option like "Order Checks & Currency," "Order Checks," or "Check Reorder." The exact wording might vary slightly.
- Sub-step 2.3: Select Your Account and Follow the Prompts.
- Choose the checking account for which you want to order checks.
- You'll be guided through a series of screens to confirm your account details, shipping address, and the quantity of checks you wish to order.
- Important Note on Designs: Recent reports indicate that Wells Fargo may have reduced the variety of check designs offered for consumer accounts, often providing only one or a limited selection of plain styles. Be prepared for potentially fewer customization options than in the past.
- Sub-step 2.4: Review Your Order and Confirm.
- Double-check all the details! Ensure your name, address, account number, and routing number are correct.
- Confirm the quantity and any applicable fees.
- Submit your order. You should receive a confirmation email or message.
Option 2: Ordering Checks by Phone
If you prefer speaking to someone or don't have internet access, ordering by phone is a solid alternative.
- Sub-step 2.1: Gather Your Information.
- Have your account number, routing number, and personal details ready before you call.
- Sub-step 2.2: Call Wells Fargo Customer Service.
- For personal accounts, call Wells Fargo at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).
- For business accounts, you might be directed to contact Harland Clarke Corp. at 1-800-237-8982.
- Sub-step 2.3: Follow the Automated Prompts or Speak to a Representative.
- You may be able to place a reorder through an automated system.
- If not, wait to speak with a customer service representative who can assist you with placing your order. They will confirm your details and process the request.
Option 3: Visiting a Wells Fargo Branch (For in-person assistance or temporary checks)
While less common for routine reorders, visiting a branch can be helpful for specific situations.
- Sub-step 2.1: Locate Your Nearest Wells Fargo Branch.
- Use the Wells Fargo website or mobile app to find a branch near you.
- Sub-step 2.2: Speak with a Banker.
- Inform the banker that you wish to order checks.
- They will ask for your account information and guide you through the process on their system.
- Sub-step 2.3: Obtaining Temporary Checks (If Needed Urgently).
- If you need checks immediately, a branch can often provide a small quantity of temporary checks on the spot. Be aware there might be a small fee per sheet for these. This is a great option if you're completely out and need to write a check before your new order arrives.
Step 3: The Waiting Game - Understanding Delivery and Fees
Once your order is placed, you'll want to know when to expect your checks and what costs are involved.
Check Delivery Time
- The delivery time for ordered checks can vary, but generally, expect them to arrive within 7-10 business days.
- Keep in mind that unforeseen circumstances like postal delays could extend this timeframe.
- If you're ordering cashier's checks online (up to $2,000), they typically allow up to 3 business days for delivery to Alaska and Hawaii, and delivery is limited to US addresses.
Associated Fees
- Cost of Checks: The price of checks varies depending on the quantity, style, and design you choose. Wells Fargo will disclose this cost during the ordering process. Some premium checking accounts may offer free checks or discounts.
- Cashier's Check Fee: If you order a cashier's check, there is typically a fee of around $10 per check. If you order online for delivery, there might be an additional delivery charge (e.g., $8).
- Temporary Checks: If you get temporary checks at a branch, there may be a small charge per sheet (e.g., around $3 per sheet).
Important Note: Always review the fee schedule provided by Wells Fargo for your specific account type to understand all potential charges.
Step 4: What to Do When Your Checks Arrive
Once your new checks land in your mailbox, there are a couple of final steps to ensure everything is correct and secure.
Sub-step 4.1: Verify the Information
- Immediately open the package and carefully inspect your new checks.
- Check your name, address, account number, and routing number for any errors.
- Ensure the check numbers are in sequence and pick up from where your previous book ended.
Sub-step 4.2: Secure Your Checks
- Checks are a valuable item and should be treated like cash. Store them in a secure location to prevent theft or unauthorized use.
- Shred any old, unused checks to prevent your sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the process of getting checks from Wells Fargo. You're now equipped to handle your financial transactions with ease.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about getting checks from Wells Fargo:
How to get temporary checks from Wells Fargo? You can get temporary checks by visiting any Wells Fargo branch and requesting them from a banker. There may be a small fee.
How to find my Wells Fargo routing number for ordering checks? Your Wells Fargo routing number is typically printed on the bottom left corner of your existing checks. You can also find it by logging into Wells Fargo Online, or by calling customer service.
How to reorder checks from Wells Fargo online? Sign on to Wells Fargo Online®, navigate to the "Accounts" section, and look for an option like "Order Checks & Currency" or "Order Checks."
How to order Wells Fargo business checks? Business checks can usually be ordered online through Wells Fargo Business Online or by calling Harland Clarke Corp. at 1-800-237-8982.
How to check the status of my Wells Fargo check order? If you ordered online, you might be able to check the status through your Wells Fargo Online account. Alternatively, you can call Wells Fargo customer service.
How to get free checks from Wells Fargo? Some Wells Fargo checking accounts, particularly premium or interest-bearing accounts, may offer free checks as a benefit. Check your account's fee schedule or contact customer service to see if your account qualifies.
How to customize check designs with Wells Fargo? While customization options for personal checks have reportedly become more limited, any available designs or personalization options will be presented during the online or phone ordering process. Wells Fargo offers design customization for debit and credit cards, but less so for checks.
How to cancel a Wells Fargo check order? If you need to cancel a check order, contact Wells Fargo customer service immediately by phone. The sooner you call, the better the chance of cancellation before the order is processed and shipped.
How to get a cashier's check from Wells Fargo? You can typically obtain a cashier's check by visiting a Wells Fargo branch. For amounts up to $2,000, you might also be able to order them through Wells Fargo Online for delivery.
How to stop payment on a Wells Fargo check? You can place a stop payment on a check through Wells Fargo Online, by calling customer service at 1-800-TO-WELLS, or by visiting a branch. Fees may apply for stop payment requests.