Cashier’s check vs certified check is a common point of confusion in banking.
In this article, we’re going to break down these two options, sharing their differences, and similarities, and answering common questions about them.
This article is part of our free series on sending money, including the ultimate guide to bank checks, which you can access here.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- Cashier’s Check vs Certified Check
- Benefits of a Cashier Check
- Benefits of a Certified Check
- How to Get a Check
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
Cashier’s Check vs Certified Check
The main difference between a cashier’s check and a certified check is that cashier’s checks are signed and guaranteed by the bank while certified checks are signed by the account holder and their information is verified by the bank.
Benefits of a Cashier Check
The benefits of a cashier’s check include that they are one of the most secure forms of payment available, they are suitable for a wide range of large transactions, they are issued by the vast majority of financial institutions, and they are relatively easy to obtain.
Benefits of a Certified Check
The benefits of a certified check include that they are more secure than personal checks, the account holder’s information is verified so they are less susceptible to fraud, the payment amount is verified by the bank, and they are also less expensive to obtain than a cashier’s check.
How to Get a Check
How you get a check will depend on the type of check that you require. In many instances, you will be able to use a personal check to meet the requirements of your transactions. However, when more secure forms of payment are needed, you may be asked to provide a cashier’s check or a certified check.
With this in mind, here is a closer look at how to obtain a cashier’s check and a certified check.
How to Get Cashier’s Checks:
To get cashier’s checks you will need to visit the financial institution where the account is held that you want to draw the check against. You will then speak with a teller at the bank and ask that they prepare a cashier’s check for your required amount. In certain instances, the teller may request supporting documentation or an explanation of the reason for the check. When this happens, a note will typically be included on the back of the check specifying the purpose.
How to Get Certified Check
To get a certified check you will need to visit the financial institution where the account is held that you want to draw the check against. You will then speak with a teller at the bank and inform them that you want a certified check. Then, you will need to prepare the check in front of the teller and provide them with a copy of your identification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people looking into a cashier’s check vs certified check. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Can I Get Certified Checks Online?
Yes, in most cases you can get certified checks online. However, depending on the bank you may need to visit your bank in person in order to pick up the physical check for use. With this in mind, it is often best to contact your bank directly and confirm which options are available to you based on your location and the value of the check that you require.
Which Is Better Cashier’s Check or Certified Check?
Whether a cashier’s check or a certified check are better will depend on the specific situation where the check is being used. For example, cashier’s checks are often better when larger sums are involved and the check needs to be directly guaranteed by the issuing financial institution. On the other hand, when dealing with smaller sums, the recipient may be comfortable receiving a certified check, which an issuing party would sign.
What Is Safer, Cashier’s Check or Certified Check?
A cashier’s check and a certified check are both safe, this is because in both instances the bank has confirmed the availability of the funds. That said, from the perspective of the recipient a cashier’s check is safer because banks sign cashier’s checks directly and funds are earmarked for the purpose of the check. Comparatively, the customer signs certified checks and the bank simply confirms that the funds were available of issue.
What Is the Downside of a Cashier’s Check?
The downside of a cashier’s check is that the bank will charge fees for obtaining one. Additionally, in order to obtain a cashier’s check, you will need to visit the bank in person. With this in mind, most people will only choose to obtain a cashier’s check if it is necessary for the type of transaction or when paying large sums.
Why Is a Cashier’s Check Better?
A cashier’s check is not necessarily better than a certified check in all instances. However, a cashier’s check is better for larger purchases like putting a downpayment on a home or purchasing a vehicle. That said, for smaller purchases, a certified or regular bank check may suffice, which means the additional process and costs associated with obtaining a cashier’s check are not necessary.
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