Ready to master the art of writing a check? Even in our digital age, checks remain a vital tool for various transactions, from paying rent to gifting money. If you're a Bank of America customer, understanding how to properly fill out a check is a fundamental financial skill. Let's dive in and make sure you're confident every time you reach for your checkbook!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Understand the Basics
Before we put pen to paper, let's ensure you have everything you need and understand the key components of a check.
- Your Bank of America Checkbook: Obviously, you'll need a blank check from your Bank of America account.
- A Reliable Pen: Use a pen with blue or black ink. Avoid pencils or erasable pens, as they can lead to fraud or processing issues.
- The Recipient's Information: You'll need the exact name of the person or organization you're paying. Double-check for correct spelling!
- The Payment Amount: Know the precise amount of money you intend to pay.
Now, let's quickly identify the crucial parts of a check:
- Your Information: At the top left, you'll see your name and address.
- Bank of America Logo and Address: Usually found at the top right or center.
- Check Number: Located in the top right corner and also at the bottom right. This helps you track your checks.
- Date Line: Top right, where you'll write the date.
- "Pay to the Order of" Line: Where you write the recipient's name.
- Dollar Box: A small box to the right of the "Pay to the Order of" line, where you'll write the numerical amount.
- Written Amount Line: Below the "Pay to the Order of" line, where you'll write the amount in words.
- Memo Line (Optional): Bottom left, for notes about the payment.
- Signature Line: Bottom right, where you sign the check.
- Routing Number, Account Number, Check Number (MICR Line): These numbers are printed in special magnetic ink at the very bottom of the check, used for processing.
Step 2: Dating Your Check Correctly
The date is crucial as it indicates when the check was written.
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Locate the Date Line: This is typically in the top right corner of your Bank of America check.
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Fill in the Current Date: Write the month, day, and year. For example, "June 24, 2025" or "06/24/2025".
- Important Note: While you can technically post-date a check (write a future date), it's generally not recommended as the recipient might still try to cash it earlier. Similarly, avoid stale-dating (writing a past date too far back), as banks may not honor checks that are too old (usually 6 months).
Step 3: Identifying the Payee
This step ensures your money goes to the right person or organization.
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Find "Pay to the Order of": This line is prominently displayed in the middle of the check.
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Write the Full Legal Name: Carefully and clearly write the full legal name of the person or entity you are paying.
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Examples:
- For an individual: John Doe
- For a business: ABC Company, Inc.
- For a utility bill: Southern California Edison (or whatever the specific company is)
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Pro Tip: If you're unsure of the exact spelling for a business, check their invoice, website, or contact them directly. Accuracy here prevents delays or returned checks.
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Step 4: Writing the Numerical Amount (The Dollar Box)
This is where you write the amount of money using digits.
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Locate the Dollar Box: This is the small box to the right of the "Pay to the Order of" line, usually preceded by a dollar sign ($).
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Enter the Amount in Digits: Write the exact amount you are paying in numerical form.
- Example: If you're paying $150.75, you would write 150.75.
- Always include cents, even if it's a whole dollar amount. For example, $50.00.
- Be precise: Place the decimal point clearly between dollars and cents.
Step 5: Writing the Written Amount (The Legal Amount)
This is a critical step, as the written amount is the legal amount in case of a discrepancy with the numerical amount.
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Find the Written Amount Line: This long line is typically below the "Pay to the Order of" line and runs across the check.
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Spell out the Dollar Amount: Start at the far left of the line to prevent anyone from adding extra words.
- Example: For $150.75, you would write: One Hundred Fifty and 75/100
- For Whole Dollars: If the amount is $200.00, you would write: Two Hundred and 00/100 or Two Hundred and No/100.
- Use "and" to separate dollars and cents.
- Draw a line to the end of the space after you've written the amount to prevent anyone from adding more words. For example: One Hundred Fifty and 75/100 ----------.
Step 6: Utilizing the Memo Line (Optional but Recommended)
The memo line is for your personal record-keeping.
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Locate the Memo Line: This is usually at the bottom left of the check.
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Add a Brief Note: Write a short description of the payment. This is incredibly helpful for remembering why you wrote the check later.
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Examples:
- "July Rent"
- "Utilities Bill"
- "Birthday Gift"
- "Invoice #12345"
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This line does not affect the validity of the check, but it's a good habit for tracking your expenses.
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Step 7: Signing Your Check (The Final, Crucial Step)
Your signature authorizes the payment.
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Find the Signature Line: This is the long line at the bottom right of the check.
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Sign Your Name: Use your legal signature as it appears on file with Bank of America.
- Do not sign a blank check. This is a major security risk!
- Your signature should be consistent with how you typically sign other financial documents.
Step 8: Recording Your Transaction in Your Check Register
This step is vital for managing your finances and avoiding overdrafts.
- Locate Your Check Register: This is usually found at the back of your checkbook.
- Enter the Details Immediately:
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Check Number: (from the check itself)
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Date: (the date you wrote the check)
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Description: (who you paid and what it was for – similar to your memo line)
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Payment/Debit: (the amount of the check)
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Balance: Subtract the check amount from your previous balance to get your new balance.
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Why is this so important? Even though a check is written, it might take a few days to clear your bank. Recording it immediately ensures your account balance is accurate and helps prevent you from accidentally spending money you've already committed.
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By following these steps, you'll confidently write checks from your Bank of America account every time. Practice makes perfect, and soon, it will be second nature!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a Bank of America checkbook? You can order a Bank of America checkbook online through your Bank of America online banking account, by calling their customer service, or by visiting a local Bank of America branch.
How to endorse a Bank of America check? To endorse a Bank of America check for deposit, you typically sign your name on the back of the check, within the "Endorse Here" area. You can also add "For Deposit Only" and your account number for added security.
How to void a Bank of America check? To void a Bank of America check, write the word "VOID" in large letters across the entire front of the check. Do not tear it up. Record it in your check register as "VOID" so you know that check number was used but not cashed.
How to find my Bank of America routing number? Your Bank of America routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks (the first nine digits). You can also find it by logging into your online banking account or by visiting the Bank of America website.
How to find my Bank of America account number? Your Bank of America account number is printed on the bottom of your checks, typically after the routing number. You can also find it by logging into your online banking account or on your monthly bank statements.
How to stop payment on a Bank of America check? You can request a stop payment on a Bank of America check through your online banking account, by calling Bank of America customer service, or by visiting a branch. Be aware that fees may apply, and you'll need the check number and payee information.
How to write a check for less than a dollar on a Bank of America check? To write a check for less than a dollar, write "Zero and [Cents Amount]/100" in the written amount line (e.g., "Zero and 75/100") and "0. [Cents Amount]" in the numerical box (e.g., "0.75").
How to pay a bill with a Bank of America check? To pay a bill with a Bank of America check, simply fill out the check with the payee's name (the biller), the correct amount, and sign it. Mail it to the address provided on your bill.
How to cash a Bank of America check that is made out to me? You can cash a Bank of America check made out to you at a Bank of America branch (you'll likely need ID and your account information) or deposit it into your account using an ATM, mobile deposit, or at a branch.
How to ensure my Bank of America check is secure? Always use blue or black ink, fill out all lines completely, avoid leaving large blank spaces, record the check in your register immediately, and never sign a blank check. Keep your checkbook in a secure location.