Want to save some money and avoid those pesky check printing fees? You've come to the right place! While "free checks" from Wells Fargo might not be a universal offering for all account types, there are indeed ways to get them at no cost, or at least significantly reduce the expense. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step by step, and shed light on how you can leverage your banking relationship to your advantage.
Unlocking Free Checks from Wells Fargo: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Are You Eligible for Free Checks? Let's Find Out!
Before you jump into ordering, the most crucial first step is to determine if your specific Wells Fargo checking account offers complimentary checks. Many people assume they have to pay for checks, but that's not always the case!
Sub-heading: Review Your Account Benefits
- Premier Checking and Prime Checking Accounts: If you hold a Wells Fargo Premier Checking or Prime Checking account, you're in luck! These premium accounts typically offer free Wells Fargo Personal Wallet checks as a standard benefit. They also come with other perks like waived fees for cashier's checks and money orders.
- Other Checking Accounts (Everyday Checking, Clear Access Banking, etc.): For other checking accounts like Everyday Checking or Clear Access Banking, complimentary checks are generally not a standard feature. However, there might be specific promotions or circumstances where you could qualify. It's always worth checking!
- Student Accounts: In the past, certain student-focused accounts (like those linked to a Wells Fargo Campus ATM Card or Campus Debit Card) might have offered free checks or ways to avoid monthly service fees that could include check benefits. While some of these specific programs have changed or been phased out (e.g., Campus Cards effective May 1, 2025), it's worth reviewing your account details if you're a student.
How to Check Your Account Benefits:
- Online Banking: Sign on to Wells Fargo Online and navigate to your account details or the "Account Services" section. Look for a "Fee and Information Schedule" or a summary of your account benefits.
- Mobile App: Access your account details through the Wells Fargo Mobile® app.
- Deposit Account Agreement: Refer to the original Deposit Account Agreement you received when opening your account. This document outlines all the fees and benefits.
- Contact Customer Service: If in doubt, the easiest way to confirm your eligibility is to call Wells Fargo customer service directly at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).
Step 2: Understanding the "Free" Aspect – What Exactly Does It Mean?
It's important to differentiate between genuinely free checks and ways to reduce the cost.
Sub-heading: Complimentary vs. Reduced Cost
- Complimentary Checks: If your account, like Premier or Prime Checking, includes "Wells Fargo Personal Wallet checks" at no charge, it means you can order a standard style of checks without incurring a printing fee from Wells Fargo. There might be limitations on the design options (e.g., often a plain white style).
- Avoiding Monthly Service Fees: For some accounts, like Everyday Checking, you can avoid the monthly service fee by meeting certain criteria (e.g., maintaining a minimum daily balance, having qualifying direct deposits). While this doesn't directly make the checks free, it makes the overall cost of maintaining the account lower, which can free up funds for check purchases if needed.
- External Vendors: While Wells Fargo charges for checks for most accounts, you can often find significantly cheaper checks from third-party online check printing companies. These companies specialize in printing checks and often offer discounts and a wider variety of styles.
Step 3: Ordering Your Checks (Assuming Eligibility)
Once you've confirmed your eligibility for free checks or are ready to order, here's how to proceed.
Sub-heading: Online Ordering (Recommended for Convenience)
This is typically the most straightforward method if you have Wells Fargo Online access.
- Sign On to Wells Fargo Online: Go to the official Wells Fargo website and sign in to your online banking account.
- Navigate to "Order Checks & Currency": Look for a section related to "Account Services," "Manage Accounts," or a direct link to "Order Checks & Currency" (often found under the "Accounts" tab).
- Select Your Account: Choose the checking account for which you want to order checks.
- Follow the Prompts: The system will guide you through the process.
- If you're eligible for free checks, you should see an option to select your complimentary check style.
- If you're not eligible for free checks, you'll see various styles and pricing options. Here, you'll make your selection and proceed to payment.
- Confirm Details: Double-check your shipping address, account information, and the quantity of checks.
- Place Your Order: Submit your order. You'll usually receive an estimated delivery date.
Sub-heading: Ordering by Phone
If you prefer to speak with someone or don't have online banking access, you can order checks by phone.
- Personal Accounts: Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557). A customer service representative will assist you with the order. Be prepared to provide your account details and verify your identity.
- Business Accounts: For business accounts, you'll typically call Harland Clarke Corp., Wells Fargo's check printing partner, at 1-800-237-8982.
Sub-heading: Ordering at a Wells Fargo Branch
If you prefer an in-person experience, you can visit any Wells Fargo branch.
- Locate a Branch: Use the Wells Fargo website or mobile app to find the nearest branch.
- Speak with a Banker: Inform a banker that you wish to order checks for your account.
- Provide Account Information: You'll need to provide your account number and valid identification.
- Select Checks: The banker will show you available check styles and help you place the order. They can also confirm if your account offers free checks.
Step 4: What if You Don't Qualify for Free Checks from Wells Fargo Directly?
Even if your Wells Fargo account doesn't offer free checks, you still have excellent, cost-effective alternatives.
Sub-heading: Explore Third-Party Check Printing Services
- Significant Savings: Online check printing companies like Harland Clarke (Wells Fargo's partner), Checks Unlimited, Deluxe, and many others often offer checks at a fraction of the cost compared to ordering directly through your bank.
- Variety of Designs: These services also typically provide a much wider array of designs, colors, and features, allowing you to personalize your checks.
- How to Order from a Third Party:
- Gather Your Account Information: You'll need your Wells Fargo account number and the Wells Fargo routing number. This information can usually be found on your existing checks, your online banking account, or by contacting Wells Fargo customer service.
- Choose a Reputable Vendor: Do a quick online search for "personal checks online" and read reviews to find a reputable company.
- Enter Your Details: Follow the instructions on the third-party website to input your bank and personal information for printing.
- Select Design and Quantity: Choose your preferred check style and the number of checks you want.
- Review and Order: Carefully review all the entered information before finalizing your order.
Sub-heading: Consider Online Bill Pay and Digital Payments
In today's digital age, writing physical checks is becoming less frequent for many transactions.
- Wells Fargo Online Bill Pay: Utilize Wells Fargo's free online bill pay service to pay recurring bills directly from your checking account. This eliminates the need for checks entirely for many payments.
- Zelle®: For person-to-person payments, Zelle® is a fast and free way to send and receive money directly from your Wells Fargo account.
- Debit Card and Digital Wallets: For everyday purchases, your Wells Fargo debit card and digital wallet options (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) are convenient and widely accepted.
By embracing these digital payment methods, you might find that you rarely need physical checks, making the cost of ordering them a non-issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to: Check if my Wells Fargo account offers free checks?
You can check your Wells Fargo online banking account under the "Account Services" or "Account Details" section, refer to your Deposit Account Agreement, or call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).
How to: Order checks online from Wells Fargo?
Sign on to Wells Fargo Online, navigate to "Order Checks & Currency" (usually under the "Accounts" tab), select your account, and follow the prompts to place your order.
How to: Order checks by phone from Wells Fargo?
For personal accounts, call 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557). For business accounts, call Harland Clarke Corp. at 1-800-237-8982.
How to: Order checks in person at a Wells Fargo branch?
Visit any Wells Fargo branch and speak with a personal banker, providing your account number and identification.
How to: Find my Wells Fargo routing number for ordering checks from a third party?
Your Wells Fargo routing number can be found on your existing checks, within your Wells Fargo Online banking account, or by contacting customer service.
How to: Save money on checks if Wells Fargo doesn't offer them for free?
Order checks from a reputable third-party online check printing service, as they often offer significantly lower prices than banks.
How to: Reduce my need for physical checks?
Utilize Wells Fargo Online Bill Pay for recurring payments, Zelle® for person-to-person transfers, and your debit card or digital wallet for everyday purchases.
How to: Know if my account is a "Premier Checking" or "Prime Checking" account?
Check your account statements, your Wells Fargo Online banking details, or contact customer service to confirm your account type and associated benefits.
How to: Reorder checks from Wells Fargo?
The reordering process is similar to the initial order, whether online, by phone, or in a branch. You'll typically use your existing check number as a reference.
How to: Get temporary checks from Wells Fargo?
If you need checks immediately, you can typically request temporary checks at a Wells Fargo branch. Be aware that a fee may apply for temporary checks.
