Do you find yourself running low on checks for your Bank of America account? Perhaps you've just opened a new account and need your first set of checks, or maybe you simply prefer the convenience of having a physical checkbook on hand. Whatever your reason, getting checks from Bank of America is a straightforward process, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step.
Let's dive in and make sure you're well-equipped with the knowledge to order your Bank of America checks with ease!
Step 1: Discover Your Ordering Options – How Do You Prefer to Get Your Checks?
Before you begin, consider which method of ordering checks best suits your needs and comfort level. Bank of America offers several convenient ways to get your checks. Which one sounds most appealing to you?
Option 1.1: Ordering Checks Online (The Most Popular Choice)
For many, ordering checks online is the quickest and most convenient method. You can do it from the comfort of your home, any time of day or night.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need for Online Ordering:
- Your Bank of America Online Banking login credentials (User ID and Password).
- Your account number.
- Your routing number (this is usually pre-filled when ordering through the official Bank of America portal).
- A valid shipping address.
Sub-heading: The Online Ordering Process:
- Log in to Bank of America Online Banking: Go to the official Bank of America website (
bankofamerica.com - Navigate to the "Order Checks" Section: Once logged in, look for a section related to "Account Services," "Customer Service," "Order Checks," or "Reorder Checks." This is typically found under your checking or savings account details. You might also find it under a "Help & Support" menu.
- Select Your Account: If you have multiple accounts, carefully select the checking or savings account for which you need checks.
- Choose Your Check Style and Quantity: You'll be presented with various check designs, styles (e.g., standard, scenic, themed), and quantities. Browse through the options. You might also see options for things like duplicate checks, personalized covers, or deposit slips.
- Consider your usage: Do you write a lot of checks, or just a few occasionally? This will help you decide on the quantity.
- Review and Customize (Optional): Many services allow you to preview your checks. Double-check your name, address, and account information. You may also have options to add a design or a special message.
- Confirm Shipping Information: Verify your shipping address. Make sure it's accurate to avoid any delivery delays.
- Review Your Order and Pay: Before finalizing, a summary of your order, including the total cost and estimated delivery date, will be displayed. Carefully review all details. If everything looks correct, proceed with payment. The cost of checks can vary depending on the style and quantity you choose.
- Confirmation: Once your order is placed, you'll usually receive an email confirmation with your order details and sometimes a tracking number.
Option 1.2: Ordering Checks by Phone (For Personalized Assistance)
If you prefer to speak with a representative or have specific questions, ordering checks over the phone is a great option.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need for Phone Ordering:
- Your Bank of America account number.
- Your personal identification details (e.g., Social Security Number, date of birth) for verification.
- A phone number for Bank of America Customer Service. For online banking support, you can call 800.432.1000.
- Any specific requests for check style or quantity.
Sub-heading: The Phone Ordering Process:
- Call Bank of America Customer Service: Dial the customer service number. You can often find this on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the Bank of America website.
- Navigate the Automated System: You'll likely encounter an automated system. Listen carefully to the prompts and select the option for "account services" or "ordering checks."
- Speak with a Representative: Once connected to a representative, inform them that you wish to order checks for your account.
- Provide Information for Verification: The representative will ask for your account number and other personal details to verify your identity.
- Place Your Order: The representative will guide you through the available check styles, quantities, and pricing. They can also answer any questions you have.
- Confirm Details and Payment: The representative will confirm your order details and processing information. Payment will usually be debited directly from your account.
- Confirmation: You may receive an email or a confirmation number for your order.
Option 1.3: Ordering Checks In-Person at a Financial Center (For Immediate Needs or Face-to-Face Help)
If you need temporary checks immediately, or simply prefer a face-to-face interaction, visiting a Bank of America financial center is an option.
Sub-heading: What You'll Need for In-Person Ordering:
- A valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport).
- Your Bank of America debit card or account number.
Sub-heading: The In-Person Ordering Process:
- Locate a Bank of America Financial Center: Use the Bank of America website or mobile app to find the nearest financial center.
- Visit During Business Hours: Go to the financial center during their operating hours.
- Speak with a Banker: Approach a customer service representative or a banker. Inform them that you need to order checks.
- Provide Identification and Account Details: You'll be asked to present your ID and provide your account information for verification.
- Discuss Your Order: The banker can help you choose check styles and quantities.
- Important for Immediate Needs: If you need checks immediately, inquire about temporary or counter checks. Many branches can print a small number of temporary checks on the spot, which can be useful while you wait for your official order to arrive. Be aware that these temporary checks might have a different appearance or limited quantity.
- Confirm and Pay: The banker will finalize your order and arrange for payment.
Step 2: Understanding Check Styles and Pricing
When ordering checks, you'll encounter various options that can affect the final cost and the appearance of your checkbook.
Sub-heading: Exploring Check Styles:
- Standard Checks: These are basic checks with minimal design, often the most economical choice.
- Personalized Checks: You can choose from a wide array of designs, including scenic landscapes, cartoon characters, sports themes, and more. These typically come at a higher cost.
- Duplicate Checks: These checks include a carbonless copy that remains in your checkbook, providing a record of each check you write. Highly recommended for easy record-keeping.
- Top Stub or Side Tear Checks: These offer different layouts for your checkbook, with stubs for recording transactions.
- Business Checks: If you have a business account, you'll find specific checks designed for business use, often with more space for memo lines or company details.
Sub-heading: What Affects Checkbook Cost:
The price of your checks will depend on several factors:
- Quantity: Ordering more checks usually leads to a lower per-check cost.
- Style/Design: Fancy or themed checks are generally more expensive than basic ones.
- Special Features: Features like duplicate checks or personalized covers will add to the total cost.
- Shipping Method: Expedited shipping options will incur additional fees.
It's a good idea to compare options and consider your needs to get the best value.
Step 3: Delivery Times and Tracking Your Order
Once you've placed your order, you'll naturally be curious about when your new checks will arrive.
Sub-heading: Standard Delivery Times:
- Standard Mail: Typically, checks ordered via standard mail take approximately 5 to 7 business days to arrive after they have been printed and shipped. Please allow 1-2 business days for check printing for all delivery methods other than overnight/2-day.
- Expedited Shipping: If available and chosen, expedited options like overnight or 2-day delivery can significantly shorten the waiting period. Orders for these methods usually need to be placed by a specific local time (e.g., 11:00 a.m. Monday-Friday) to qualify for same-day processing.
Sub-heading: How to Track Your Order:
- Email Confirmation: If you ordered online, your confirmation email will often include a tracking number or a link to track your order.
- Online Banking: Sometimes, you can check the status of your check order directly within your Bank of America Online Banking portal, often in the same section where you placed the order.
- If you don't receive tracking information or your checks within the expected timeframe, don't hesitate to contact Bank of America customer service for assistance.
Step 4: What to Do When Your Checks Arrive
Once your new checks land in your mailbox, there are a few important steps to take.
Sub-heading: Verify All Information:
- Accuracy Check: Immediately check all the information on your new checks. This includes your name, address, account number, and routing number.
- Contact Bank of America if there are errors: If you find any discrepancies, contact Bank of America customer service right away. Do not use checks with incorrect information.
Sub-heading: Secure Storage:
- Keep them safe: Checks are like cash. Store your checkbook in a secure location to prevent unauthorized access.
- Shred old checks: Once you receive your new checks, shred any remaining old checks to protect your financial information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about getting checks from Bank of America, with quick answers:
How to get temporary checks from Bank of America?
You can typically get temporary or counter checks by visiting a Bank of America financial center in person. A banker can print a limited number of checks for immediate use while you wait for your official order.
How to reorder checks from Bank of America online?
Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking, navigate to your checking or savings account, and look for the "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks" option, usually under "Account Services" or "Help & Support."
How to find my Bank of America routing number for ordering checks?
Your Bank of America routing number is usually pre-filled when you order checks through your online banking portal. You can also find it on your existing checks, on your bank statements, or by logging into online banking and viewing your account details.
How to know the cost of checks from Bank of America?
The cost of checks depends on the style, quantity, and any additional features you choose. You will see the pricing details during the online ordering process, or a representative can provide this information if you order by phone or in person.
How to track a Bank of America check order?
If you ordered online, check your confirmation email for a tracking number. You might also be able to track the order within your Bank of America Online Banking portal. If not, contact customer service.
How to get deposit slips for Bank of America?
Deposit slips are often included with your check order. You can also order them separately through Bank of America's online portal, by phone, or sometimes by visiting a financial center.
How to change the address on my Bank of America checks?
Before ordering new checks, ensure your address is updated with Bank of America through your online banking portal (Profile & Settings), by calling customer service, or by visiting a financial center. Your new checks will then reflect the updated address.
How to get free checks from Bank of America?
Generally, checks from Bank of America are not free and come with a cost. Some premium or preferred banking tiers might offer a discount or free checks as a benefit, so check your account terms and conditions or speak with a representative.
How to expedite delivery of Bank of America checks?
During the online ordering process, or when speaking with a representative, you can often select expedited shipping options (like overnight or 2-day delivery) for an additional fee.
How to stop payment on a check issued from Bank of America?
You can place a stop payment on a check through Bank of America Online Banking, by calling customer service, or by visiting a financial center. Be prepared to provide the check number, amount, and payee information. A fee may apply for stop payment requests.
