People are currently reading this guide.
Ready to deposit your check at Bank of America? It's a common task, and thankfully, Bank of America offers several convenient ways to get your funds into your account. Whether you prefer the digital route, a quick ATM visit, or a face-to-face interaction at a branch, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!
How to Deposit a Check at Bank of America: A Step-by-Step Guide
 |
| How To Deposit A Check At Bank Of America |
Step 1: Prepare Your Check for Deposit
This is the most crucial first step, regardless of how you plan to deposit your check. Neglecting proper endorsement can lead to delays or even rejection of your deposit!
Understanding Endorsement
Endorsement refers to signing the back of the check to authorize its deposit. Think of it as your signature giving the bank permission to process the funds.
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
- Locate the Endorsement Area: On the back of most checks, you'll find a designated area near the top, often marked "Endorse Here" or with lines for your signature. There might also be a box or statement like "Do Not Write, Stamp, or Sign Below This Line." Make sure you sign within the endorsement area.
- Simple Endorsement (Blank Endorsement): For most personal checks, a simple signature is sufficient.
- Action: Sign your name exactly as it appears on the "Pay to the Order of" line on the front of the check. If your name is misspelled, sign it as it's written on the check, then write your correct signature below it.
- Restrictive Endorsement (Recommended for Mobile/ATM Deposits): For added security, especially with mobile or ATM deposits, a restrictive endorsement is highly recommended. This ensures the check can only be deposited into your specified account.
- Action: Write "For Deposit Only" or "For Bank of America Mobile Deposit Only" (or "ATM Deposit Only" if using an ATM) directly above or below your signature. You can also add your Bank of America account number for extra clarity, though this might make your account number visible if the check is later returned.
- Multiple Payees:
- If the check says "Pay to the order of [Name 1] AND [Name 2]": Both individuals must endorse the check.
- If the check says "Pay to the order of [Name 1] OR [Name 2]": Either individual can endorse the check.
Important Note: Use a dark-colored pen (blue or black ink) and ensure your signature is clear and legible. Avoid pencil or light-colored inks.
Step 2: Choose Your Deposit Method
Bank of America offers several convenient options for depositing your check. Select the one that best suits your needs and schedule.
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
Option A: Mobile Check Deposit (Using the Bank of America Mobile App)
This is often the quickest and most convenient method, allowing you to deposit checks from almost anywhere.
 |
- Requirements:
- A smartphone or tablet with the Bank of America Mobile Banking app installed.
- A stable internet connection.
- A well-lit, flat surface (preferably a dark background) to photograph the check.
- Sub-step 2.A.1: Open the App and Select Deposit Checks
- Log in to your Bank of America Mobile Banking app.
- Look for an option like "Deposit Checks" or "Mobile Deposit" in the main menu or dashboard.
- Sub-step 2.A.2: Photograph Your Check
- The app will guide you to take pictures of both the front and back of your endorsed check.
- Tips for good photos:
- Place the check on a dark, plain background to help the camera distinguish its edges.
- Ensure all four corners of the check are visible within the frame.
- Hold your device steady and directly over the check (not at an angle).
- Ensure there's good lighting and no shadows on the check.
- The app often has an auto-capture feature, but you can also tap the camera icon to take the picture manually if needed. A green checkmark usually indicates a successful capture.
- Sub-step 2.A.3: Enter Deposit Details
- Select the Bank of America account you wish to deposit the funds into (e.g., checking, savings).
- Carefully enter the exact dollar amount of the check. Double-check for accuracy!
- Sub-step 2.A.4: Review and Submit
- Review all the details on the confirmation screen, including the account, amount, and images.
- Tap "Submit" or "Deposit."
- Confirmation: You'll receive an immediate confirmation within the app that your deposit is processing. Bank of America will also typically send you an email confirmation.
- What to do with the physical check: Keep the physical check in a safe place until you're absolutely certain the funds have cleared and are available in your account. Banks usually recommend holding onto it for at least 2 weeks. Do not try to deposit the check again through another method, as this can lead to fees or complications.
Option B: ATM Check Deposit
Bank of America ATMs are widely available and offer another convenient way to deposit checks without needing a teller.
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
- Requirements:
- Your Bank of America debit card.
- Your PIN (Personal Identification Number).
- Your endorsed check.
- Sub-step 2.B.1: Insert Your Card and Enter PIN
- Go to any Bank of America ATM.
- Insert your debit card and enter your PIN when prompted.
- Sub-step 2.B.2: Select "Deposit"
- On the main menu, select the "Deposit" option.
- Choose "Check" as the deposit type.
- Sub-step 2.B.3: Insert Your Check
- The ATM will prompt you to insert your check into the designated slot.
- Ensure the check is flat and unfolded. Some ATMs can accept multiple checks at once, while others require them individually. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Sub-step 2.B.4: Confirm Amount and Account
- The ATM will usually read the check and display the amount. Verify that the amount displayed matches the amount on your check. If it's incorrect, you'll have the option to correct it.
- Select the account you wish to deposit into.
- Sub-step 2.B.5: Complete Transaction
- Confirm the deposit.
- The ATM will provide a receipt. Keep this receipt as proof of your deposit, as it will often indicate if any hold is placed on your funds.
Option C: In-Person at a Bank of America Financial Center
For those who prefer a traditional banking experience or have complex deposit needs, visiting a financial center is a reliable option.
- Requirements:
- Your endorsed check.
- Your Bank of America debit card or account number (helpful for quick look-up).
- A valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) – sometimes required, especially for large deposits or if you're not a frequent customer at that specific branch.
- A deposit slip (available at the branch).
- Sub-step 2.C.1: Fill Out a Deposit Slip (Optional but Recommended)
- While not always strictly necessary for a simple check deposit with a teller, filling out a deposit slip can expedite the process.
- On the deposit slip, clearly write:
- Your account number.
- The date.
- The amount of the check(s) you are depositing.
- Your signature (if required).
- Sub-step 2.C.2: Approach a Teller
- Wait in line for an available teller.
- Present your endorsed check, deposit slip (if used), and ID to the teller.
- Sub-step 2.C.3: Confirm and Receive Receipt
- The teller will process your deposit.
- Verify the details on the screen or with the teller.
- You will receive a deposit receipt. Keep this for your records. The receipt will indicate the deposited amount and any holds placed on the funds.
Step 3: Understand Fund Availability
Once you've deposited your check, it's important to understand when the funds will be available for your use. Bank of America, like other financial institutions, may place a "hold" on checks for various reasons.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
- General Availability:
- For most checks, especially those deposited before the cut-off time on a business day, funds are typically available by the next business day.
- Bank of America's cut-off times vary by method:
- Mobile Check Deposit: Usually 9:00 p.m. ET (Eastern Time) for accounts opened in Eastern or Central time zones, and 8:00 p.m. PT (Pacific Time) for accounts opened in Mountain or Pacific time zones. Checks deposited by these times are generally available the next business day.
- ATM Deposits: Funds are usually available the next business day if deposited before the ATM's cut-off time (which is typically displayed on the ATM screen or receipt).
- Teller Deposits: Funds are usually available the next business day if deposited before the financial center's cut-off time.
- Reasons for Holds:
- Large Check Amounts: Deposits over a certain amount (e.g., $5,525) may have a portion of the funds held for a longer period.
- New Accounts: If your account is relatively new (e.g., less than 30 days old), holds may be longer.
- Repeated Overdrafts: Accounts with a history of overdrafts might experience longer holds.
- Suspicious Activity: If the bank suspects fraud or believes the check may not clear, a hold will be placed.
- Out-of-State/Foreign Checks: Checks drawn on banks outside your immediate area or foreign checks may take longer to clear.
- How to Check for Holds:
- Mobile App/Online Banking: After depositing, check your transaction history. Any holds will usually be indicated there.
- ATM Receipt: The ATM receipt will often state if a hold has been placed.
- Teller Receipt: The teller will usually inform you of any holds and it will be printed on your receipt.
- Impact of Holds: While a hold is in place, you may not be able to withdraw or use the full amount of the check. However, typically a small portion (e.g., the first $225) is made available sooner.
Step 4: Verify Your Deposit
Once the expected availability time has passed, it's a good practice to confirm that the funds have indeed cleared and are fully available in your account.
- Check Online Banking/Mobile App: Log in to your Bank of America online banking or mobile app. Check your account balance and transaction history to see the deposited amount.
- Review Your Statement: Once your monthly statement arrives, review it to ensure all deposits are accurately reflected.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Endorse a Check for Mobile Deposit at Bank of America?
- Sign the back of the check in the endorsement area and write "For Bank of America Mobile Deposit Only" directly below your signature.
How to Find a Bank of America ATM Near Me?
- Use the "Locations" feature within the Bank of America Mobile Banking app or visit the "Locations" page on their website, entering your current location or zip code.
How to Check My Bank of America Account Balance?
- You can check your balance via the Bank of America Mobile Banking app, online banking, at any Bank of America ATM, by calling customer service, or by visiting a financial center.
How to Avoid a Hold on My Check Deposit?
- While not always avoidable, you can minimize holds by:
- Depositing checks electronically (mobile or ATM) before cut-off times.
- Ensuring the check is properly endorsed.
- Maintaining a good account history.
- Encouraging payers to use electronic methods like direct deposit or Zelle.
How to Know When My Mobile Check Deposit Funds Will Be Available?
- Funds from mobile check deposits made by 9:00 p.m. ET (or 8:00 p.m. PT) on a business day are generally available the next business day. The app will also confirm availability during the deposit process.
How to Deposit Multiple Checks at a Bank of America ATM?
- Most newer Bank of America ATMs allow you to insert multiple checks at once. Follow the on-screen prompts after selecting "Deposit Checks." If the ATM only accepts one, it will instruct you to insert them individually.
How to Order New Checks for My Bank of America Account?
- You can reorder checks through Bank of America online banking, via the mobile app, by calling customer service, or by visiting a financial center.
How to Get a Deposit Slip at a Bank of America Branch?
- Deposit slips are readily available in the lobby areas of all Bank of America financial centers, usually near the teller lines or customer service desks.
How to Contact Bank of America Customer Service for Deposit Questions?
- You can call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 (available Monday-Friday 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET; Saturday-Sunday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET) or use the secure messaging feature within their online banking or mobile app.
How to Handle a Returned Check After Deposit?
- If a deposited check is returned unpaid, Bank of America will typically notify you via mail or through your online banking. The amount of the returned check will be debited from your account, and you may incur a returned item fee. You'll need to contact the issuer of the check to resolve the issue.
 |
