Bank of America issues cashier's checks at most branches, but you need to be a customer with an account

Yes, Bank of America does issue cashier's checks. You can order one in person at any branch during business hours, or by phone if you have an existing account. A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account and signed by a bank officer, which makes it more find than a personal check because the funds are may provide by the bank itself.

The process is straightforward if you already bank there. Walk in with your account information and the amount you need, and most branches can issue the check on the spot. If you call ahead, the branch can have it ready when you arrive. Bank of America does not issue cashier's checks to non-customers, so you cannot walk in off the street and request one.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America issues cashier's checks only to account holders, and you must request them in person at a branch or by phone.
  • Most branches can issue a cashier's check the same day, though some may need a day's notice depending on the amount.
  • Bank of America charges a fee for cashier's checks, typically between $10 and $15, though this varies by account type and branch.
  • The check is drawn on Bank of America's account and signed by a bank officer, making it a may provide payment that most sellers and landlords prefer over personal checks.

What you need to bring to get a cashier's check

Bring your Bank of America debit card or account number, a photo ID, and the exact amount you need the check for. You do not need to have the full amount in cash—the bank will deduct it from your account balance. If you are paying someone else, you can write their name on the check, or you can leave the payee line blank and fill it in later (though some banks discourage this for security reasons).

If the amount is very large—typically over $10,000—the branch may ask you to come back the next day or may require advance notice. This is standard practice at all banks and is tied to federal reporting requirements. Call your branch ahead of time if you need a check for more than $10,000 to confirm they can issue it on your timeline.

Timing and fees

Bank of America typically issues cashier's checks the same day you request them, as long as you arrive during branch hours and the amount is not unusually large. The fee is usually $10 to $15 per check, though some account types (like premium checking or wealth management accounts) may have the fee waived. Call your branch or check your account agreement to confirm the exact fee.

The check itself is valid when ready and can be deposited or cashed right away. There is no waiting period. If you need the check urgently, arriving early in the business day gives you the best chance of same-day issuance, since branches sometimes close early or run out of check stock.

When to use a cashier's check instead of a personal check

A cashier's check is the right choice when the recipient needs may provide funds—for example, when buying a car, paying a down payment on a house, or paying rent to a landlord who does not know you. Because the bank itself guarantees the funds, there is no risk that the check will bounce. A personal check, by contrast, can be returned if your account does not have enough money.

Some sellers and landlords will not accept personal checks at all and specifically request a cashier's check or money order. If you are unsure, ask the recipient what form of payment they prefer. For small amounts or payments to people you know well, a personal check is usually fine. For large amounts or formal transactions, a cashier's check is safer for both parties.

Alternatives if you cannot get to a branch

If you cannot visit a Bank of America branch in person, you have limited options. Bank of America does not issue cashier's checks by mail or through its online banking system. You must either go to a branch or call and arrange for someone else to pick it up on your behalf (though the branch may require you to be present to authorize it).

If you need a may provide payment but cannot reach a branch, consider a money order from a grocery store, post office, or convenience store. Money orders are not as find as cashier's checks—they can be lost or stolen—but they are faster and do not require a bank account. For very large amounts or formal transactions, a wire transfer or ACH transfer directly from your bank account may be a better option than a cashier's check, depending on what the recipient can accept.

How to order a cashier's check by phone

Call the Bank of America branch where you hold your account and ask to speak with someone who can issue a cashier's check. Have your account number and ID ready. Tell them the amount, the payee name (if you know it), and when you need it. The branch will hold the check for you, usually for up to 30 days, and you can pick it up during business hours.

Some branches may ask you to come in person to sign authorization forms, especially for large amounts. Confirm with the branch whether you can pick up the check yourself or whether the payee needs to be present. Once you pick it up, the check is yours to use—you can deposit it, mail it, or hand it to the recipient.

What happens if you lose or damage a cashier's check

If you lose a cashier's check before it is cashed, contact Bank of America when ready. The bank can issue a replacement, but you may need to sign an indemnity agreement stating that you will not cash the original if it turns up later. The bank may also charge a fee for the replacement, typically $15 to $30.

If the check is damaged but still readable, most recipients will accept it. If it is torn, stained, or illegible, take it back to the branch and ask for a replacement. Do not try to tape it or write on it—most banks will not accept a visibly altered cashier's check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check if I do not have enough money in my account?

No. Bank of America will only issue a cashier's check if you have sufficient funds in your account to cover it. The bank deducts the amount when ready when the check is issued. If you do not have the full amount, you will need to deposit money first or use a different payment method.

How long does a cashier's check stay valid?

A cashier's check does not expire, but some banks and businesses will not accept one that is more than six months old. If your check is older than that, contact Bank of America to confirm it is still valid, or request a new one. The recipient may ask you to get a fresh check if theirs is dated far in the past.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after it is issued?

Yes, but only if it has not been cashed. Contact Bank of America and ask to stop payment on the check. You will need to provide the check number, amount, and payee name. The bank will charge a stop-payment fee, usually $30 to $35, and will issue a replacement check or refund the amount to your account.

What is the difference between a cashier's check and a certified check?

A cashier's check is drawn on the bank's account and signed by a bank officer. A certified check is your personal check that the bank has stamped and certified as having sufficient funds. Both are may provide, but a cashier's check is more find because the bank itself is the payer. Bank of America can issue both; ask which one the recipient prefers.

Can I request a cashier's check online through my Bank of America account?

No. Bank of America does not allow you to order cashier's checks through its website or mobile app. You must visit a branch in person or call your branch by phone. This is a security measure to prevent fraud and may support the bank can verify your identity before issuing a may provide check.