How to turn $10k cash into a cashier check?

I have $10k in cash for a car down-payment, but the dealership says they need a cashier’s check instead. If I deposit this amount into my local bank account (it’s less than a month old) and then ask for a cashier’s check in a few weeks, will there be any issues?

I’m fine with paperwork and I have nothing to hide, but I’m worried about potential delays or holds. I don’t want to risk losing the deposit on my car since it’s a special order and should arrive soon.

For context, I opened my main bank account over 15 years ago while in the military, but there are no local branches near me now—it’s over an hour away. Six months ago, while car shopping, I asked my bank about down-payment options, and they suggested a cashier’s check. Back then, I wasn’t sure where I’d buy the car, so I withdrew $7k cash during a trip to my nearest branch. Over time, I’ve added to this cash, and now the dealership says they won’t accept $10k in cash. I want to avoid financing the full amount since it will raise my monthly payments. I recently opened a local account to handle situations like this in the future.

Just explain everything clearly to the bank teller. As long as you’re transparent, you shouldn’t face issues.

You’re overthinking this. Deposit the cash, and when you’re ready, request the cashier’s check. Your bank won’t hold a cash deposit.

Kumi said:
You’re overthinking this. Deposit the cash, and when you’re ready, request the cashier’s check. Your bank won’t hold a cash deposit.

I really hope that’s how it works. I just want to avoid any unexpected delays.

@Bret
Yes, $10k is a normal amount for banks. Just act natural. If anything, a report might be filed, but that’s routine. If everything checks out, no problem.

Your explanation sounds reasonable. Banks usually just make some notes, and as long as everything checks out, there’s no issue. You can also call ahead to give the branch a heads-up.

Worked at a big bank before. One-time $10k deposits for a cashier’s check aren’t a problem. Repeated transactions might flag something, but this should be fine.

StephanieTerry said:
Worked at a big bank before. One-time $10k deposits for a cashier’s check aren’t a problem. Repeated transactions might flag something, but this should be fine.

Thanks for the reassurance.

Banks can’t hold cash deposits legally. They might file a report, but getting the cashier’s check afterward shouldn’t be an issue.

Happy said:
Banks can’t hold cash deposits legally. They might file a report, but getting the cashier’s check afterward shouldn’t be an issue.

I’m not sure what those reports mean, but as long as it doesn’t cause delays, I’m okay with it.

Make sure to explain where the cash is from. A bank statement showing a previous withdrawal might help. Once deposited, the funds should be available for the cashier’s check.

Years ago, I wanted to pay cash for a used car but ended up taking out a loan because it was cheaper and faster than getting a cashier’s check. I paid off the loan in a week and only paid $16 in interest.

@JamesHenry
That could work for some, but my budget is tight, and I can’t afford higher monthly payments.

Honestly, this isn’t as complicated as it seems. Just go to the bank and deposit the cash.

They might file a report, but if it’s a one-time thing, it shouldn’t cause any trouble.

Be upfront about your situation. The bank will likely understand and process everything smoothly.

Why not just deposit the cash and use an electronic transfer or debit card for the down payment?

Call your branch and explain your needs. Most banks will work with you if you’re transparent. If they don’t, consider switching banks.

Beryl said:
Call your branch and explain your needs. Most banks will work with you if you’re transparent. If they don’t, consider switching banks.

Having a local bank seems useful for future situations. This is just about getting through this transaction smoothly.

Could you look for the same car at another dealership?