How to Write a Check From Your Bank of America Account

The basic steps to write a check

Writing a check is straightforward once you know where each piece of information goes. A check is a written instruction to your bank to move money from your account to whoever you give the check to. You fill in the date, the recipient's name, the dollar amount in two places, and your signature — then hand it over or mail it.

Your Bank of America checks come pre-printed with your account number, routing number, and usually your name and address. You only need to fill in the blanks for each individual check you write. The bank uses the information on the check to know which account to pull the money from and to process the payment.

Key Takeaways

Write the date in the top right corner, the recipient's name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, and the amount in both numbers and words.
Your signature on the bottom right is required — a check without your signature cannot be cashed.
Use a pen, not pencil, so the check cannot be altered after you write it.
Keep a record of each check you write so you know what money has left your account.
If you make a mistake, write "VOID" across the check and start over on a new one.

Where to write the date

The date line is in the top right corner of the check. Write the date the check is being written, not a future date. Some people write post-dated checks (checks with a future date), but this is risky — the recipient can cash it before that date, and your bank may process it whenever they receive it, not on the date you wrote.

Use the format that is clearest: "January 15, 2025" or "1/15/2025" both work. Avoid abbreviations that could be misread. If you write the wrong date, cross it out, write the correct date next to it, and initial the change.

Filling in the recipient's name and amount

On the line that says "Pay to the Order of," write the full name of the person or business receiving the money. This is usually the name on their account or business license. If you are paying a company, use their official business name rather than a shortened version.

Next to that line, in the box on the right, write the amount in numbers: $150.00. Then on the line below that, write out the amount in words: "One hundred fifty dollars." If the two amounts do not match, the bank may reject the check or process it for the smaller amount. For amounts under one dollar, write "00/100" in the dollar box and "No dollars" or "Zero dollars" in the words line.

Signing the check

Your signature goes on the bottom right line of the check, after the word "Memo" area. This is the most important part — a check cannot be cashed without your signature. Sign your name the same way you signed it when you opened your Bank of America account. The bank has a record of your signature and will compare it when the check is presented.

Use a pen, never pencil. Pencil can be erased, which means someone could change the amount or recipient after you write the check. A pen makes the check harder to alter without being noticed.

The memo line and keeping records

The small line in the lower left corner, marked "Memo," is optional. You can write a brief note here to remind yourself what the check was for — "rent," "car payment," "invoice 2847." This helps you remember later when you are reviewing your account.

Keep a written or digital record of each check you write. Your Bank of America statement will show the checks that have been cashed, but there is often a delay. Tracking checks yourself prevents you from accidentally spending the same money twice. Many people use a check register (a small booklet that comes with checks) or a spreadsheet to record the date, recipient, amount, and purpose of each check.

Common mistakes and how to fix them

If you make a mistake while writing a check, do not try to fix it with white-out or by crossing out and rewriting. Instead, write "VOID" in large letters across the front of the check and set it aside. Start over on a new check from your checkbook.

The most common mistakes are writing the wrong amount in numbers or words, misspelling the recipient's name, or forgetting to sign. If you catch the error before you hand over the check, void it and write a new one. If someone has already cashed a check with an error, contact your Bank of America branch — they can help you address it, though the process depends on what went wrong.

When checks clear and how long it takes

When you give someone a check, they take it to their bank to deposit or cash it. Their bank then sends it to Bank of America, which removes the money from your account. This process usually takes three to five business days, though it can be faster or slower depending on the banks involved and whether the check is deposited in person or remotely.

Until the check clears, the money is still technically in your account, but you should not spend it. If you write a check for more money than you have, the check will bounce — the bank will refuse to pay it, and you will owe a fee. Keep enough money in your account to cover every check you have written that has not yet cleared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write a check to myself?

Yes. Write your own name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, sign the check, and deposit it into another account or cash it at a Bank of America branch. This is sometimes done when moving money between accounts or when you need cash but do not want to use an ATM.

What if I lose a check or someone steals it?

Contact your Bank of America branch right away. If the check has not been cashed yet, the bank can put a stop payment on it, which prevents the check from being processed. There is usually a fee for this service. If the check has already been cashed by someone other than the intended recipient, report it as fraud and the bank will investigate.

Do I need to use checks from Bank of America, or can I use any checks?

You can use checks from any printer as long as they include your Bank of America account number and routing number. However, using checks from Bank of America ensures the information is correct. If you order checks from another source, double-check that the account and routing numbers match what is on your Bank of America statements.

What happens if I write a check but do not have enough money in my account?

The check will bounce, meaning the bank will refuse to pay it. The recipient will be notified that the check could not be processed, and you will owe a non-sufficient funds fee to Bank of America. The recipient may also charge you a fee for the bounced check. Avoid this by keeping track of your balance and the checks you have written.

Can someone cash a check if my signature does not match exactly?

Banks compare signatures when checks are presented, but the match does not have to be perfect — signatures naturally vary. However, if the signature looks very different from the one on file, the bank may reject the check or contact you to verify. Sign consistently so your signature is recognizable.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.