our CU does not charge the check ordering fee once a year for those with 60+; the rest of us, we do contributeMy credit union provides checks for free, as in $0 for the checks, and $0 for shipping. Granted, they're fairly plain with the CU logo on them, and it takes 2-3 weeks to get them, but who really cares. Free.
I honestly think you're paying about $30 too much, and may need a different CU.