While personal checks are the most common payment from, other methods are available, A certified check is a personal check with guaranteed payment. The amount of the check is deducted from your balance when the financial institution certifies the check. A cashier’s check of a financial institution. You may purchase one by paying the amount of the check plus a fee. You may purchase a money order in a similar manner from financial institutions, post offices, and stores. Certified checks, cashier’s checks, and money orders allow you to make a payment that the recipient knows is valid.