Banks typically chargecurrent pricing for a box of personal checks, while third-party check printers offer the same or better security features forcurrent pricing per box. The five companies below represent the most reliable options in 2026 for ordering personal, business, or specialty checks at a fair price with solid security.
| Company | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Checks in the Mail | Best value | 4.8/5 |
| CheckAdvantage | Design variety | 4.8/5 |
| Walmart Checks | Budget buyers | 4.6/5 |
| Carousel Checks | Personal style | 4.7/5 |
| Costco Checks | Members | 4.7/5 |
Checks in the Mail - Best Overall Value
Checks in the Mail is one of the oldest third-party check printers in the United States, having operated since 1922. All checks include standard security features: microprinting, chemical protection, watermarks, and security screens. The design catalog runs to hundreds of options across classic, nature, artistic, and licensed categories. Pricing for a single box of 150 checks starts before shipping. Larger orders drop the per-box cost further. The ordering process is straightforward and the company accepts orders by phone or online. Shipping is standard USPS, with priority options available. Reordering from account history is quick and requires no re-entry of banking information.
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CheckAdvantage - Best Design Selection
CheckAdvantage offers one of the largest design catalogs of any check printer — over 3,000 designs spanning scenic photography, artistic prints, collegiate, and seasonal themes. Security features are comparable to Checks in the Mail: microprinting, chemical wash detection, and security coatings are standard on all orders. Pricing is competitive (+ per box) and the website filters designs by category, color, and style, making it easy to find something that reflects your personality or business brand. CheckAdvantage also offers matching address labels, checkbook covers, and deposit slips, which streamlines reordering all your checking supplies in one place.
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Walmart Checks - Best Budget Option
Walmart’s online check ordering service (separate from the physical store) consistently offers the lowest price for standard personal checks among major reputable providers. A single box of 150 checks typically runs including basic security features. The design selection is narrower than specialist printers — mostly classic patterns and solid colors — but more than adequate for functional personal use. Checks comply with ANSI banking standards and include standard security features. Shipping options range from economy to priority delivery. For buyers who prioritize price above all else and do not need premium design options, Walmart Checks is the practical default.
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Carousel Checks - Best for Personal Style
Carousel Checks focuses on distinctive, high-quality design options and positions itself as a step above standard check printers for buyers who want something more visually interesting. The catalog includes licensed art, nature photography, and custom photo checks (you can upload a personal image). Security features include microprinting, padlock icons, and chemical protection. Pricing sits slightly above budget competitors but still well below bank pricing. The website allows design previewing with your name and account number prefilled so you can see exactly how the finished check will look before ordering. Customer service is responsive and shipping is reliable.
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Costco Checks - Best for Members
Costco’s check printing partnership (currently with Bradford Exchange Checks) delivers competitive pricing for members through the Costco website. A box of 150 personal checks typically runscurrent pricing before Costco’s member discount, which brings the effective price below most competitors. Security features are full-tier: microprinting, UV fluorescent fibers, watermarks, and security screens. The design catalog is solid without being as expansive as CheckAdvantage. For Costco members who already use the site for household purchasing, consolidating check orders here is a convenient choice. Non-members must access Bradford Exchange Checks directly at standard pricing.
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How to Choose a Check Company
Start by confirming what your bank requires — most accept any ANSI-compliant third-party check, but some credit unions have specific printing requirements. Verify the security features listed: microprinting (text too small to photocopy clearly), chemical protection (reacts if someone tries to alter the amount), and watermarks are the three most important for personal security. Compare total cost including shipping, not just the per-box price — some services have low check prices but high shipping fees that close the gap. Look for quantity discounts if you write more than one box per year; most services reduce the per-box price substantially at two or four boxes. Check the estimated delivery time if you have upcoming bills due.
For related office and finance supplies, see our guide to the best compact all-in-one color laser printers for printing financial documents and our best compact alarm clock review for office organization. See how we evaluate products at /methodology.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best company to order checks from in 2026?+
Checks in the Mail and CheckAdvantage consistently offer the best combination of price, security features, and design selection for personal checks. If your bank chargescurrent pricing per box, ordering through a third-party printer typically costs 50-70% less for the same or higher security level. Walmart Checks is the most popular budget option for standard personal checks.
Are third-party check companies safe to use?+
Yes, reputable third-party check printers are safe. They must meet the same American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and banking standards as bank-issued checks. Look for providers that use microprinting, watermarks, and security coatings. Avoid unknown vendors -- stick with companies that have verified customer reviews and display their security certifications on their website.