Bank Bill Pay vs. Mailing a Check
Understanding when to use your bank's bill pay service versus mailing a physical check yourself. Each has its place depending on your needs and the recipient's preferences.
How the two methods compare
| Feature | Bank Bill Pay | Check Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic payments (ACH) | Yes | No |
| Physical check mailing | Yes | Yes |
| Works with any recipient | No | Yes |
| No printer needed | No | Yes |
| Same-day processing | No | Yes |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes |
| Cost per payment | Free | $1.25 |
When bank bill pay is the right choice
Regular, recurring payments
Bank bill pay excels at regular monthly bills like utilities, insurance, or mortgage payments. Once set up, payments happen automatically without any ongoing effort.
Recipients who accept electronic payments
If the company or person you're paying accepts ACH transfers or has enrolled in your bank's bill pay network, this is usually the fastest and cheapest option.
Large, established companies
Major utilities, credit card companies, and large service providers typically work well with bank bill pay because they have the infrastructure to receive electronic payments.
When mailing a check with Check Supply is better
One-time payments to individuals
Perfect for paying rent to a landlord, reimbursing a friend, or paying a contractor. No need for the recipient to enroll in any system.
Small businesses and sole proprietors
Many small businesses, freelancers, and independent contractors prefer or require physical checks. We make it easy to pay them without any special equipment.
When you don't have a printer
If you're traveling, working remotely, or simply don't own a printer, we handle all the physical aspects while you manage everything digitally.
Faster than bank processing
Banks often take 3–5 business days to process and mail checks. We can process and mail the same business day for urgent payments.
The best of both worlds
Many people use both services: bank bill pay for regular, recurring payments to large companies, and Check Supply for one-time payments to individuals and small businesses.