Bank of America's check fees vary by the type of check and your account

Bank of America charges $10 for a cashier's check if you're a customer with an active checking or savings account. A cashier's check is a check that the bank itself writes and guarantees, rather than one you write from your own account. The bank pulls the money from your account at the time you request it, so the recipient knows the funds are definitely there.

If you don't have an account with Bank of America, the fee is higher — typically $15 to $20, though this can vary by location. Some branches may charge differently, so it's worth calling ahead or visiting in person to confirm the exact price at your local branch.

Bank of America does not charge you to order regular personal checks that you write yourself from your checking account. Those come as part of your account. You may pay a fee only if you want expedited delivery or a specialty design, which is optional.

Key Takeaways

  • A cashier's check costs $10 for Bank of America account holders and $15 to $20 for non-customers.
  • You can request a cashier's check in person at any Bank of America branch or sometimes by phone or online, depending on your account type.
  • Regular personal checks you order for your checking account have no fee — they're included with the account.
  • Fees may differ slightly by branch location, so confirm the price before you request the check.

When you need a cashier's check instead of a personal check

A cashier's check is useful when the person or business receiving the money wants proof that the funds exist before they hand over what they're selling. This happens often in real estate closings, car purchases, and large transactions where the seller doesn't want to wait for a personal check to clear.

When you write a personal check, the recipient has to deposit it and wait for it to clear — usually one to three business days. During that time, the money is still in your account, and if you don't actually have it, the check bounces. A cashier's check clears much faster because the bank has already removed the money from your account and put its own name on the check as the guarantor.

How to get a cashier's check at Bank of America

The simplest way is to visit a Bank of America branch in person with your ID and debit card or account information. Tell the teller you need a cashier's check, say how much, and provide the name of the person or business it should be made out to. The teller will take the money from your account right then and hand you the check. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you have a Bank of America online or mobile banking account, you may be able to request a cashier's check through your account, though availability depends on your account type and the amount. You would still need to pick it up at a branch or have it mailed to you. Call your branch or log into your account to see if this option is available to you.

Some Bank of America customers can also request a cashier's check by phone, but this is not available for all account types. If you want to try this route, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card.

What to bring and what information you'll need

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to know the exact amount of the check and the name of the person or business it should be made out to. If you're paying a business, use their legal business name if you know it.

Have your Bank of America account number or debit card ready so the teller can pull up your account and confirm you have the funds. If you're not sure of your account number, your debit card has it on the front.

Timing and delivery options

If you request a cashier's check in person at a branch, you walk out with it the same day. If you request it online or by phone, the bank will either mail it to you or ask you to pick it up at your branch. Mailed checks typically arrive within three to five business days, depending on your location.

Some branches offer faster delivery if you're willing to pay extra, but this is not standard. Ask your branch what options they have if you need the check urgently.

Limits on how many cashier's checks you can get

Bank of America does not publicly state a limit on how many cashier's checks you can request. However, if you request an unusually large number in a short time, the bank may ask questions to make sure you're not involved in fraud or money laundering. This is standard practice at all banks.

If you need multiple cashier's checks for a legitimate reason — such as paying several vendors for a home renovation — explain that to the teller. They can usually process them without issue.

Alternatives if you don't want to pay for a cashier's check

A money order is similar to a cashier's check but smaller and cheaper. You can buy one at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and post offices for $1 to $3, depending on the amount. Money orders work well for amounts under $1,000 and clear quickly, though not quite as fast as a cashier's check.

A wire transfer moves money directly from your bank account to someone else's bank account. Bank of America charges $15 to $30 for a domestic wire transfer, depending on whether you do it online or in person. Wires are faster than checks — usually same-day or next-day — but they cannot be reversed once sent, so use them only when you're certain of the recipient's account information.

If the amount is small and the recipient trusts you, a personal check is free and works fine. It just takes longer to clear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without going to a Bank of America branch?

Some account holders can request one online or by phone, but you'll still need to pick it up at a branch or wait for it to be mailed. Availability depends on your account type. Call your branch or check your online banking portal to see if this option is available to you.

What if I lose the cashier's check before I use it?

Contact Bank of America right away. They can put a stop on the check and issue you a replacement, though there may be a fee for the replacement. You'll need the check number and amount. The process can take several days.

Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?

No. A certified check is a personal check you write that the bank stamps to confirm the funds are there. A cashier's check is a check the bank writes itself. Cashier's checks are more widely accepted because the bank guarantees them, but certified checks are cheaper or free at some banks.

Can someone else pick up my cashier's check?

Usually not. Most banks require the person whose name is on the account to pick it up in person with ID. If you need someone else to get it, call your branch ahead of time to ask about their policy — some branches may allow it with written permission.

How long is a cashier's check good for?

Cashier's checks don't expire, but some states have laws that allow banks to stop honoring them after a certain period — usually six months to a year. If you're not using it right away, ask the teller how long Bank of America will honor it in your state.