Losing a check or realizing you've sent one to the wrong person can be a stressful experience. Fortunately, banks offer a service called "stop payment" that can help. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about stopping payment on a check at Bank of America, including the costs involved and the step-by-step process.
The Cost of Peace of Mind: Understanding Bank of America's Stop Payment Fee
Let's cut to the chase: how much does it cost to stop payment on a check at Bank of America?
As of my last update, Bank of America charges a fee of $30.00 per stop payment request.
However, there's a crucial detail to be aware of: this fee may be waived for certain account holders. Specifically, individuals with Preferred Rewards for Business accounts and those whose accounts are included in the Business Advantage Relationship Banking solution often qualify for a waiver of this fee. It's always a good idea to check your specific account's fee schedule or contact Bank of America directly to confirm if you're eligible for a waiver.
Why Would You Need to Stop Payment on a Check?
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly review the common reasons why someone might need to place a stop payment on a check:
- Lost or Stolen Check: This is perhaps the most common reason. If a check falls into the wrong hands, a stop payment prevents unauthorized cashing.
- Payment Dispute: You sent a check for a service or product, but then a dispute arose, and you no longer wish for the payment to go through.
- Incorrect Amount: You realized you wrote the check for the wrong amount.
- Error in Payee Name: The payee's name was incorrect, and the check cannot be cashed.
- Cancellation of Purchase/Service: You decided not to proceed with a purchase or service after issuing the check.
- Duplicate Payment: You accidentally sent two checks for the same transaction.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Stopping Payment on a Check at Bank of America
Ready to take control and stop that payment? Let's get started!
Step 1: Gather Your Critical Information (Don't skip this!)
Before you even think about contacting Bank of America, you need to have all the necessary details readily available. This will make the process much smoother and faster.
Here's what you'll need:
- Your Bank of America Account Number: Make sure it's the correct account from which the check was drawn.
- The Check Number: This is crucial for identifying the specific check you want to stop.
- The Exact Amount of the Check: Even a slight discrepancy can prevent the stop payment from being effective.
- The Date the Check Was Written: This helps narrow down the transaction.
- The Payee's Name: The individual or entity to whom the check was made out.
- Reason for the Stop Payment: While not always strictly required upfront, it's good to have a clear understanding of why you're stopping the payment.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method of Contact
Bank of America offers a few convenient ways to request a stop payment. Choose the one that works best for you and your situation.
Sub-heading 2.1: Online Banking (The Quickest Option)
For many, this is the most efficient way to place a stop payment.
- Log In: Go to the Bank of America website (
www.bankofamerica.com - Navigate to Services: Once logged in, look for a "Services" or "Customer Service" section.
- Find "Stop Payment on a Check": Within the services menu, you should find an option specifically for "Stop payment on a check."
- Enter Required Information: You will be prompted to enter the check number, date written, exact amount, and payee. Double-check every detail for accuracy.
- Confirm Request: Review all the information carefully and confirm your stop payment request. You will likely receive a confirmation number or email.
Sub-heading 2.2: Phone (For Direct Assistance)
If you prefer speaking to a representative or have specific questions, calling is a great option.
- Locate the Customer Service Number: The general customer service number for Bank of America is 1-800-432-1000. You can also find the number on your account statement.
- Be Prepared for Prompts: You might need to navigate through an automated system. Have your account information ready.
- Speak to a Representative: Once connected to a representative, clearly state that you wish to place a stop payment on a check.
- Provide Details: The representative will ask for all the critical information you gathered in Step 1 (check number, amount, date, payee).
- Confirm and Note: Ask for a confirmation number and the fee associated with the stop payment. Note down the representative's name and the date/time of your call.
Customer Service Hours (as of last update):
- Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time)
- Saturday – Sunday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (local time)
Sub-heading 2.3: In-Person (For Personalized Support)
While less common for a simple stop payment, visiting a financial center can be helpful if you need in-person assistance or have other banking needs.
- Find a Financial Center: Use the Bank of America locator tool on their website or mobile app to find the nearest financial center.
- Bring Required Information & ID: Make sure to bring a valid photo ID and all the check details you gathered in Step 1.
- Speak to a Teller or Banker: Inform them you want to place a stop payment on a check.
- Complete Necessary Forms: You may be asked to fill out a stop payment request form.
- Receive Confirmation: Ensure you receive a confirmation of your stop payment request.
Step 3: Understand the Timing and Effectiveness
A stop payment is only effective if the check has not yet cleared your account.
- Act Quickly: The sooner you place the stop payment, the higher the chance of success.
- Check Clearance: If the check has already been presented and paid, the stop payment will not be effective, and the fee may still apply. You'll need to pursue other avenues to recover funds, if applicable.
- Duration: A stop payment on a personal check at Bank of America is typically effective for 6 months. If the check is presented after this period, it could potentially be paid.
Step 4: Verify the Stop Payment and Monitor Your Account
After placing the stop payment, it's wise to confirm it has been successfully applied and to monitor your account activity.
- Check Online Banking: Look for a confirmation or a "stop payment" indicator on your account's activity.
- Review Statements: When your next statement arrives, verify that the check in question was not paid.
- Keep Records: Retain any confirmation numbers, emails, or written documentation related to your stop payment request.
Important Considerations and Tips
- Exact Information is Key: As mentioned, the exact check number and amount are critical. If the information you provide doesn't precisely match the check presented, Bank of America may not be able to stop the payment, and the fee may still be charged.
- No Guarantee After Clearance: A stop payment is a preventative measure. It cannot reverse a transaction that has already been processed and cleared your account.
- Legal Obligation: Placing a stop payment does not absolve you of any underlying legal obligation to the payee. If you legitimately owe the funds, the payee may still pursue payment through other means.
- Bill Pay Stop Payments: If you need to stop a payment made through Bank of America's Bill Pay service, the process might be slightly different and typically has different cutoff times for cancellation. Check the Bill Pay section of your online banking or contact customer service for specific instructions.
- Cashier's Checks: Stopping payment on a cashier's check is significantly more complex and often requires filing a declaration of loss and may involve a waiting period (sometimes 90 days or more) before a refund is issued, due to the nature of a cashier's check being "guaranteed funds."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to know if a check has already cleared my Bank of America account?
You can check your account activity through Bank of America Online Banking or the Mobile Banking app. If the check has cleared, it will appear as a posted transaction.
How to find my Bank of America account number?
Your account number can be found on your checks, your monthly bank statements, or by logging into your Bank of America Online Banking account.
How to submit a stop payment request online with Bank of America?
Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking, navigate to "Services," and select "Stop payment on a check." Then, fill in the required details (check number, amount, date, payee).
How to contact Bank of America customer service for a stop payment?
Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Be ready to provide your account information and the check details.
How to ensure my stop payment is successful?
Provide the exact check number, amount, date, and payee name. Act quickly before the check clears your account.
How to get a refund for a stop payment fee at Bank of America?
The $30 fee is generally non-refundable unless you are a Preferred Rewards for Business member or have an account under the Business Advantage Relationship Banking solution. Check your specific account terms or contact the bank.
How to stop payment on a check if I don't know the exact amount?
While challenging, you might still be able to initiate a stop payment with a range, but it significantly decreases the chances of success. It's best to have the exact amount. Contact customer service for guidance in such a scenario.
How to stop a recurring payment at Bank of America (not a single check)?
For recurring electronic payments (like ACH transfers or Bill Pay), you typically need to contact the payee directly to cancel the recurring payment. You may also be able to stop it through Bank of America's online Bill Pay or by contacting customer service for pre-authorized debits, often requiring a few days' notice.
How to check the status of a stop payment request?
You can usually see the status in your Bank of America Online Banking under "Services" or "Stop Payments," or by calling customer service.
How to dispute a transaction if a stop payment failed?
If a stop payment was placed correctly but the check still cleared, or if you suspect fraud, immediately contact Bank of America's fraud department or customer service to dispute the transaction.
