Money Basics
Managing a Checking Account
Getting your checks
When you open a checking account, the bank will provide temporary checks until you order permanent ones. You can order checks from the bank or from a third-party provider. Plain checks are generally less expensive than those with fancy designs.
You may have various styles of checks from which to choose. For example, some checkbooks come with a duplicate feature. This allows you to keep a carbon copy of the checks you write for your records.
The box(es) of checks you order will be sent to you in the mail. Several checkbooks, or groups of checks, are in each box.
Your checking account number—the number your bank assigns to your checking account—and your bank's routing number appear on your checks. Your checking account number is important as you make deposits to and withdrawals from your account. The routing number simply identifies your bank.
