Getting a bank check (often referred to as a cashier's check or official check) from Bank of America can be a simple process, but understanding the associated costs and procedures beforehand is key. Unlike personal checks you write from your own checkbook, a bank check is guaranteed by the bank, making it a secure payment method for large transactions like real estate down payments or car purchases.
Ready to get your bank check? Let's break down how much it costs and how to get one at Bank of America!
 |
| How Much Is A Bank Check At Bank Of America |
Understanding Bank Checks at Bank of America: What You Need to Know
Before diving into the steps, it's important to differentiate between ordering a new batch of personal checks for your checking account and obtaining a single bank check (cashier's check). This guide focuses on the latter – the official bank-guaranteed check.
A cashier's check is a check guaranteed by the bank that issues it. The funds are drawn from the bank's own account, not directly from your personal account, making it a very secure form of payment. The bank essentially takes your money (or debits it from your account) and issues its own check, vouching for the funds.
Step 1: Determine if You Need a Bank Check and Why
- First, ask yourself: Is a bank check truly necessary for your situation? While highly secure, bank checks often come with a fee. For smaller transactions, other payment methods like Zelle, online bill pay, or even a personal check might suffice.
- Common reasons to use a bank check:
- Real estate transactions: Down payments, closing costs.
- Vehicle purchases: Especially from private sellers.
- Large purchases: Where the seller requires guaranteed funds.
- Court fees or settlements: When certified funds are mandated.
- International transactions: Though wire transfers might be more common for these.
Step 2: Understanding the Cost of a Bank Check at Bank of America
This is often the most pressing question! As of June 2025, Bank of America typically charges a fee for issuing a cashier's check.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
-
The standard fee for a cashier's check at Bank of America is generally $15.
-
Important Considerations for Fees:
- Preferred Rewards Program: If you are enrolled in Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program, the fee for cashier's checks may be waived. The specific tier (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Honors) can influence fee waivers and other benefits. It's always a good idea to check your Preferred Rewards benefits or ask a bank representative.
- Account Type: While the $15 fee is standard for most checking and savings accounts, some specific account types or business accounts might have different fee structures. Always refer to your personal or business Schedule of Fees for the most accurate information.
- Non-Bank of America Customers: Generally, Bank of America does not issue cashier's checks to individuals who do not have an account with them. If you are not a customer, you would typically need to bring a check drawn on Bank of America to exchange for a cashier's check, and the funds must be available. This is a rare scenario, and having an account is usually a prerequisite.
Step 3: Gather the Necessary Information and Funds
Once you've decided a bank check is the way to go, make sure you have everything ready before heading to the bank. This will ensure a smooth and quick process.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need to Bring:
- Sufficient Funds:
- This is crucial. You must have the full amount of the cashier's check plus the fee available in your Bank of America checking or savings account. The funds will be debited from your account at the time of issuance.
- Recipient Information:
- Payee Name: The exact legal name of the person or entity the check is being made out to. Double-check for spelling accuracy!
- Address (Optional but Recommended): While not always mandatory, having the payee's address can be helpful for the bank's records and if there are any issues with delivery or tracking.
- Your Valid Photo ID:
- Bank of America, like all financial institutions, requires a valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) to verify your identity when performing most in-person transactions, especially those involving official checks.
- Account Number:
- While the teller can usually look up your account with your ID, having your account number readily available can speed up the process.
Step 4: How to Obtain Your Bank Check (Step-by-Step)
There's one primary method for obtaining a bank check from Bank of America: in person at a financial center.
Sub-heading: Visiting a Bank of America Financial Center:
- Locate a Branch:
- Use the Bank of America website or mobile app's branch locator to find the nearest financial center.
- Visit During Business Hours:
- Ensure you go during their operating hours, especially if you need to speak with a teller.
- Approach a Teller or Customer Service Representative:
- Inform them that you would like to request a cashier's check.
- Provide Necessary Information:
- You will be asked for:
- Your account details from which the funds will be drawn.
- The exact amount of the cashier's check.
- The full and accurate name of the payee.
- Your valid photo ID.
- You will be asked for:
- Confirm Details:
- The teller will typically show you a summary of the check details before printing. Carefully review everything to ensure the amount and payee name are correct. Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to correct.
- Pay the Fee:
- The $15 fee (if applicable) will be debited from your account along with the check amount.
- Receive Your Check and Receipt:
- Once printed, the teller will hand you the cashier's check. It's a good practice to keep the receipt for your records. The receipt will show the date, amount, payee, and sometimes a check number, which can be useful for tracking.
Step 5: Safeguarding Your Bank Check
A bank check is essentially cash, so treat it with the utmost care!
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
- Keep it Secure: Store it in a safe place until you are ready to deliver it.
- Make a Copy: Before handing it over, make a photocopy or take a clear picture of both the front and back of the cashier's check. This can be invaluable if the check is lost, stolen, or if there's a dispute later on.
- Deliver Promptly: If mailing, use a secure, trackable method. For in-person delivery, ensure it reaches the intended recipient safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to...
How to calculate the total cost of a bank check at Bank of America?
The total cost is the face value of the check plus the $15 issuance fee (unless waived by Preferred Rewards).
 |
How to avoid the Bank of America cashier's check fee?
You can often avoid the fee if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client. Check your specific Preferred Rewards tier benefits or inquire at a financial center.
How to get a Bank of America cashier's check if I'm not a customer?
Generally, Bank of America does not issue cashier's checks to non-customers. In very specific scenarios, you might be able to exchange a check drawn on Bank of America for a cashier's check, but it's best to open an account if you anticipate needing such services regularly.
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
How to track a Bank of America cashier's check?
Once issued, the bank does not actively "track" the physical check. However, if it's lost or stolen, you can initiate a stop payment and potentially have it reissued. Having the check number and a copy is crucial for this.
How to stop payment on a Bank of America cashier's check?
Stopping payment on a cashier's check is more complex than a personal check because the funds are guaranteed. You'll need to contact Bank of America immediately, often providing an indemnity agreement, and there might be a waiting period before funds can be reissued.
How to replace a lost or stolen Bank of America cashier's check?
Contact Bank of America customer service or visit a financial center as soon as possible. They will guide you through the process, which usually involves filling out an affidavit and potentially waiting for the original check to clear or be confirmed as not cashed.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
How to get a Bank of America cashier's check for a large amount?
The process is the same regardless of the amount, as long as you have the funds available in your account. For extremely large amounts, the bank might ask additional verification questions.
How to find a Bank of America financial center near me?
You can use the "Locations" or "Find a Branch/ATM" tool on the Bank of America website or their mobile banking app.
How to prepare for getting a bank check to ensure a smooth process?
Gather all necessary information (payee name, amount), bring your valid photo ID, and ensure you have sufficient funds in your account. Calling ahead to confirm branch hours and any specific requirements can also be helpful.
How to differentiate a Bank of America cashier's check from a personal check?
A cashier's check will clearly state "Cashier's Check" or "Official Check" on it, and it will be signed by a bank official, not by you personally. It will also have the bank's routing and account numbers, indicating it's drawn on the bank's funds.
 |
