What Is the Maximum Amount for a Cashier’s Check?

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There is no universal maximum amount for a cashier’s check. Most banks don’t set a hard upper limit, which makes cashier’s checks useful for large transactions. In practice, the amount you can get depends on your available account balance and your bank’s internal policies.

Quick Take

• No hard cap at most banks: Many banks don’t impose a specific maximum limit for cashier’s checks, especially for in-branch requests.
• Your account balance is the first limit: You can’t get a cashier’s check for more than the money available in your checking account.
• Bank policies and liquidity matter: Some banks may set limits to ensure they maintain enough funds to meet internal or regulatory requirements.
• Large banks tend to be more flexible: Major institutions like Citi® or Bank of America, Member FDIC, generally don’t have stated limits and may issue checks well over $1 million if you have enough funds.
• Credit unions may impose lower limits: Smaller institutions often cap cashier’s checks, For example, Navy Federal Credit Union limits mailed cashier’s checks to $2,500, though higher amounts may be available in a branch or online.

Common Misconceptions About Cashier’s Check Limits

• Myth: Banks are required to set a limit for cashier’s checks.
• Truth: There is no maximum for a cashier’s check as long as the consumer has a sufficient balance and the bank has enough liquidity. Smaller banks tend to have smaller limits than large financial institutions.

• Myth: Banks and credit unions offer the same limit regardless of how you send the check.
• Truth: Some financial institutions have lower limits for mailed checks vs. those you buy online or pick up at a local bank branch.

What Happens If You Exceed the Limit?

Exceeding the limit for a cashier’s check means your bank may deny the request or suggest alternative payment methods. Banks have some limits in place to ensure they have enough capital at hand to fulfill legal requirements and operational policies. 

Many banks may balk at the idea of you taking out a $100 million cashier’s check, and the maximum limit also depends on the bank’s size. Smaller banks usually have lower limits to minimize their risk.

Other Options for Larger Amounts

If a bank doesn’t have a high enough cashier’s check for your purchase, there are still some ways to get the necessary funds. These are some of your options:

Why Use a Cashier’s Check for Large Transactions

• A cashier’s check offers enhanced security since the bank guarantees the funds.
• These checks reduce the risk of fraud and receive wider acceptance from sellers for large purchases.
• Cashier’s checks are frequently used for large real estate transactions and vehicle purchases.
• They are also popular payment methods for large business transactions.
• The seller can feel more assured that the check won’t bounce and that it is a secure transaction.

How To Get a Cashier’s Check

To get a cashier’s check, you can follow these steps:

1. Ensure sufficient funds: Before requesting a large cashier’s check, verify that your bank account has enough funds to cover the check amount. Remember, the bank will immediately withdraw this amount for the cashier’s check.
2. Visit your bank: Go to your bank in person. For substantial amounts, face-to-face interaction is often necessary and more secure.
3. Request the cashier’s check: At the bank, inform the teller that you need a cashier’s check. Be ready to provide specific details like the exact amount and the payee’s name.
4. Verification process: For large sums, the bank will likely perform additional verification. This could include confirming the purpose of the check and ensuring the funds’ legitimacy.
5. Pay any associated fees: Be prepared to pay a fee for the cashier’s check. The fee amount can vary depending on the bank and the check amount.
6. Collect your check: Once all verifications are complete and the fee is paid, the bank will issue your cashier’s check. Ensure all details on the check are correct before leaving the bank.
7. Secure your receipt: Always get a receipt for the transaction. This serves as proof of the check’s issuance and can be vital in case of any discrepancies or issues.

You will need your bank account details and a valid photo ID during this process. You will also have to specify how much funding you need for the check. Preparing documents in advance and calling ahead can make the process smoother, as you will have the opportunity to confirm the bank’s policies.

Safety Considerations for Large Amounts

Handling a large cashier’s check often requires extra precautions. Banks might need to verify your funds and the reason for a large transaction, especially if your account is new or has had recent changes.

These security checks help prevent fraud and ensure the transaction follows banking rules and anti-money laundering laws.

Costs and Fees for Cashier’s Checks

Most cashier’s checks have a fee that ranges from $10 to $20. The type of bank account you use will affect your fee, as some premium accounts let you waive the fee.

Comparing Costs

It’s good to compare cashier’s check costs at multiple financial institutions. You might find banks that waive the fee or have a lower cost for alternative payment methods.

However, you shouldn’t go too deep into this search if you rarely use cashier’s checks, as most of these checks have a $10 to $20 fee.

Comparing something else, like annual percentage rates (APRs) on multiple mortgages, will have a far more significant impact on your long-term finances.

Final Take

• With no standard upper limit, a cashier’s check offers flexibility, provided you have the funds in your bank account.
• Always consult with your bank to understand any specific rules or requirements they may have regarding cashier’s checks, especially for large amounts.
• This precaution helps in preparing for significant financial dealings without any surprises.

Elizabeth Constantineau contributed to the reporting for this article.

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