It's a common misconception that getting checks from your bank is always an additional cost. While many banks do charge for standard checks, Bank of America, like some other financial institutions, offers ways for eligible customers to receive free checks. This lengthy guide will walk you through the process, covering eligibility requirements and the steps to take.
Navigating the World of Bank of America Checks: Your Guide to Potential Savings!
Alright, let's dive right into it! Are you tired of paying for every little banking convenience, including those seemingly mundane paper checks? Many people don't realize that they might be eligible for free checks from their bank, and Bank of America is no exception. This guide will show you how to uncover if you qualify and the simple steps to take to get those checks without an extra charge. Ready to save some money? Let's begin!
Step 1: Discover Your Eligibility – Are You a Preferred Rewards Member?
The primary way to get free checks from Bank of America is by being a member of their Preferred Rewards program. This program offers a tiered system of benefits based on your combined balances across your Bank of America deposit accounts and Merrill investment accounts.
Sub-heading 1.1: Understanding Preferred Rewards Tiers
Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program has several tiers, and the benefits you receive, including free checks, depend on your tier. Here's a quick overview:
- Gold Tier: Requires a 3-month combined average daily balance of $20,000 to $49,999.
- Platinum Tier: Requires a 3-month combined average daily balance of $50,000 to $99,999.
- Platinum Honors Tier: Requires a 3-month combined average daily balance of $100,000 to less than $1 million.
- Diamond Tier: Requires a 3-month combined average daily balance of $1 million to $9,999,999.
- Diamond Honors Tier: Requires a 3-month combined average daily balance of $10 million or more.
The higher your tier, the more comprehensive your benefits. For free standard checks, you generally need to be in one of the Gold, Platinum, Platinum Honors, Diamond, or Diamond Honors tiers. The fee waiver applies to your first few checking accounts depending on your tier, or can be unlimited for Diamond Honors.
Sub-heading 1.2: Checking Your Preferred Rewards Status
Unsure if you're a Preferred Rewards member or what tier you're in? It's easy to find out:
- Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking or Mobile App. This is the quickest and most efficient way to access your account information.
- Look for the "Preferred Rewards" section. This is usually prominently displayed on your account summary page or within a dedicated "Rewards" or "Benefits" section.
- Verify your current tier and associated benefits. The system will clearly show if you're enrolled and what benefits you currently receive, including any waivers for check orders.
Step 2: Alternative Eligibility – Beyond Preferred Rewards
While Preferred Rewards is the most common path to free checks, there might be other specific account types or situations that offer this benefit.
Sub-heading 2.1: Specific Checking Account Features
Some Bank of America checking accounts may have inherent benefits that include free checks, often tied to maintaining a certain balance or having specific direct deposit activity. For instance, the Bank of America Advantage Relationship Banking® account may offer waived fees on certain services, including checks, if you meet specific criteria. It's crucial to:
- Review your account's "Personal Schedule of Fees": Every checking account comes with a detailed fee schedule. You can usually find this document by logging into your online banking, searching for it on the Bank of America website, or requesting a copy at a financial center. Pay close attention to sections on "Checks" or "Check Orders."
- Contact Bank of America customer service: If you're still unsure after reviewing your account documents, a quick call to customer service can clarify if your specific account type offers free checks.
Sub-heading 2.2: Student Accounts or Age-Based Waivers (Less Common for Free Checks)
While some Bank of America accounts, like Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking®, have no monthly maintenance fees for account owners under 25, it's important to note that the SafeBalance account does NOT offer paper checks. This account is designed for digital transactions. Therefore, if you require paper checks, this account type won't be your solution for free checks.
Step 3: Placing Your Free Check Order
Once you've confirmed your eligibility for free checks, the process of ordering them is straightforward. Bank of America offers a few convenient methods.
Sub-heading 3.1: Ordering Online (Recommended Method)
This is generally the easiest and quickest way to order checks, especially if you're already familiar with online banking.
- Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking account. Use your User ID and password.
- Navigate to the "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" section. This is typically found under "Account Services," "Account Management," or by using the search bar within online banking.
- Select the account for which you want to order checks. If you have multiple checking accounts, make sure to choose the correct one.
- Choose your preferred check style. If you're eligible for free standard checks, this option should be clearly indicated. Be mindful that opting for specialty designs, images, or security features beyond the standard style might incur a cost, even if the basic checks are free.
- Verify your shipping address. Double-check that the address is correct to ensure timely delivery.
- Review your order details. Before finalizing, confirm the quantity, style, and any associated costs (which should be $0 for eligible free checks).
- Submit your order. You'll typically receive a confirmation email once your order has been placed.
Sub-heading 3.2: Ordering via the Mobile App
The Bank of America Mobile Banking app offers a similar streamlined process:
- Open the Bank of America Mobile Banking app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log in using your credentials (Touch ID, Face ID, or password).
- Select the relevant checking account.
- Look for "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" within the account details or the main menu.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to select your check style, confirm details, and place your order.
Sub-heading 3.3: Ordering by Phone
If you prefer to speak with a representative or encounter any issues with online ordering, you can call Bank of America customer service.
- Have your account information ready. This includes your account number and personal identification details.
- Call Bank of America's customer service number. You can find this on the back of your debit card or on their official website.
- Explain that you wish to order checks and believe you are eligible for free checks through the Preferred Rewards program or another account benefit.
- The representative will guide you through the process, verify your eligibility, and place the order for you.
Sub-heading 3.4: Ordering at a Financial Center
While less common for simple check reorders, you can always visit a Bank of America financial center in person.
- Locate your nearest Bank of America financial center.
- Speak with a personal banker.
- Provide your account information and explain that you're looking to order checks and inquire about free options.
- The banker can assist you in placing the order and confirm your eligibility for any fee waivers.
Step 4: Tracking Your Order and What to Expect
After placing your order, you'll likely want to know when your checks will arrive.
Sub-heading 4.1: Checking Order Status
You can usually track the status of your check order through Bank of America's online banking portal or mobile app. This is typically found in the same "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" section. You'll often see an estimated delivery date.
Sub-heading 4.2: Delivery Timeframe
Delivery times can vary, but most standard check orders arrive within 7-10 business days. Expedited shipping options might be available for a fee if you need them sooner.
Important Considerations and Tips:
- Review Your Statements: Always review your bank statements to ensure no unexpected charges appear, especially after ordering checks.
- Don't Fall for Scams: Be wary of third-party websites or unsolicited calls offering "free checks" that are not directly affiliated with Bank of America. Always go through official channels.
- Consider Electronic Payments: While paper checks are sometimes necessary, explore Bank of America's online bill pay, Zelle, and other digital payment options. These are often faster, more convenient, and completely free, reducing your reliance on physical checks.
- Keep a Record: Note down the date you ordered your checks and any confirmation numbers for future reference.
By understanding Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program and knowing where to look in your account details, you can successfully navigate the process of obtaining free checks, saving you money and hassle!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Bank of America Preferred Rewards status?
You can easily check your Preferred Rewards status by logging into your Bank of America Online Banking account or mobile app. Look for the "Preferred Rewards" section on your account summary page or within a dedicated "Rewards" or "Benefits" tab.
How to order checks from Bank of America online?
Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking account, navigate to "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" (usually under "Account Services"), select your account, choose your check style, confirm your shipping address, and submit your order.
How to order checks from Bank of America through the mobile app?
Open the Bank of America Mobile Banking app, log in, select your checking account, find "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" in the menu or account details, and follow the prompts to complete your order.
How to know if my Bank of America account qualifies for free checks?
Your Bank of America account likely qualifies for free standard checks if you are a member of the Preferred Rewards program (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Honors, Diamond, or Diamond Honors tiers). You can confirm this by checking your Preferred Rewards status online or reviewing your account's Personal Schedule of Fees.
How to get free standard checks with Bank of America?
Maintain the required combined average daily balance across your Bank of America deposit and Merrill investment accounts to qualify for a Preferred Rewards tier (Gold or higher), which includes free standard checks as a benefit.
How to avoid fees when ordering checks from Bank of America?
Ensure you are eligible for free standard checks through the Preferred Rewards program. If you choose specialty designs or features beyond the standard offerings, you may incur additional costs, even if the basic checks are free.
How to find the Personal Schedule of Fees for my Bank of America account?
You can typically find your Personal Schedule of Fees by logging into your Bank of America Online Banking, searching the Bank of America website, or requesting a copy at a financial center.
How to track my Bank of America check order status?
Log in to your Bank of America Online Banking or mobile app, go to the "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" section, and you should be able to view the status of your recent order and an estimated delivery date.
How to contact Bank of America customer service to order checks?
You can call the customer service number located on the back of your Bank of America debit card or find it on the official Bank of America website. Have your account information ready when you call.
How to confirm if Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking offers paper checks?
The Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking account does not offer paper checks. It is a checkless account designed for digital transactions using a debit card, Zelle, and online banking.
