The basic steps for writing a Bank of America check

Writing a check is straightforward once you know where each piece of information goes. A check has six required fields: the date, the payee name, the dollar amount in numbers, the dollar amount in words, a memo line (optional but useful), and your signature. Bank of America checks follow the standard U.S. check format, so the layout is the same whether you order them from Bank of America or another bank.

The process takes less than a minute once you have the check in front of you and know who you are paying. You will need the recipient's name spelled correctly, the amount you are sending, and today's date. If you are unsure about any detail, it is better to stop and verify than to write the check and have it rejected or cause confusion about what you intended to pay.

Key Takeaways

  • Write the date in the top right corner, the payee name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, and the amount in both numbers and words to prevent alterations.
  • The dollar amount in words must match the number amount exactly; if they differ, the bank will process the amount written in words.
  • Sign the check in the bottom right corner with the same signature you provided to Bank of America when you opened the account.
  • Keep a record of each check you write by noting the check number, payee, amount, and date in your check register or banking app.
  • Do not post-date checks (writing a future date); Bank of America may process them when ready regardless of the date written.

Where to write the date and what format to use

The date field is in the top right corner of the check. Write the date in the format most common in the United States: month/day/year (for example, 01/15/2025) or spell it out (January 15, 2025). Either format is acceptable. Use today's date or the date you intend the recipient to receive or deposit the check.

Do not write a date in the future hoping the check will not be cashed until that date. Bank of America and most other banks will process post-dated checks when ready if they are deposited, even though the date on the check is later. If you need to delay payment, contact the recipient and arrange a different payment method or ask them to hold the check until the correct date.

Filling in the payee name and amount correctly

On the line that begins with "Pay to the Order of," write the full legal name of the person or business you are paying. Use the name exactly as the recipient expects it—for a business, use the registered business name; for a person, use their full name as it appears on their bank account. Misspelled names can cause the check to be rejected or delayed.

Write the dollar amount in two places: in the box on the right side of the check (in numbers, such as $150.00) and on the long line below the payee name (in words, such as "One Hundred Fifty Dollars"). The two amounts must match exactly. If they do not, the bank will process the amount written in words, not the number amount. Write clearly and leave no space at the beginning of the words line so someone cannot insert additional words or numbers.

The memo line and what to write there

The memo line is a small field in the lower left corner of the check, below the payee line. This field is optional but useful for your own record-keeping. Write a brief note about what the check is for—for example, "Rent for January," "Invoice #2024-567," or "Medical bill." The memo line helps both you and the recipient remember the purpose of the payment.

Keep the memo brief and clear. The recipient will see this line, so avoid writing anything sensitive or unclear. If you are paying a business, they may ask you to include a reference number or account number in the memo line; if so, use exactly what they request.

Signing the check and matching your bank signature

Sign the check in the bottom right corner, in the space labeled "Signature." Use the same signature you provided to Bank of America when you opened your account. Your signature is how the bank verifies that you authorized the payment. A signature that differs significantly from the one on file may cause the check to be rejected or flagged for review.

Sign in black or blue ink—black is standard and preferred by most banks. Do not sign in pencil or other erasable ink. Do not sign until all other fields are filled in correctly. If you make a mistake after signing, do not cross it out or write over it; instead, write "VOID" across the check and start over with a new check.

Recording the check in your register and tracking payments

After you write the check, record it in your check register (the small booklet that came with your checks) or in your Bank of America mobile app or online banking portal. Write down the check number, the date, the payee name, and the amount. Subtract the amount from your running balance so you know how much money you have left to spend.

This record is important because checks can take several days to clear, and you need to know which funds are committed even if the check has not yet been deposited. Bank of America will show pending checks in your account activity, but your own register gives you an when ready, accurate picture of your available balance. If you do not track checks, you risk overdrawing your account.

Common mistakes that cause checks to be rejected or delayed

The most frequent errors are mismatched amounts (numbers and words do not agree), illegible handwriting, missing or incorrect payee names, and unsigned checks. A check with any of these problems will be returned to you unpaid, and the recipient will not receive the funds. The payee may also charge you a fee for the returned check.

Other mistakes include writing the wrong date, writing a check from a closed account, or writing a check for more than your available balance. If you catch an error before the check is mailed or given to the recipient, void it and write a new one. If the check has already left your hands, contact Bank of America when ready to see if they can stop payment on the check (this service usually costs $25 to $35 and is not always successful if the check has already been deposited).

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I write the dollar amount in words differently from the number amount?

The bank will process the amount written in words, not the number amount. For example, if you write "$100" in the number box but "Fifty Dollars" in words, the check will be processed for $50. Always make sure both amounts match exactly to avoid confusion and may support the correct payment is made.

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 your Bank of America account using mobile deposit or at a branch. This is a common way to move money between accounts or to convert a check into cash.

How long does it take for a Bank of America check to clear?

Most checks clear within one to three business days after the recipient deposits them, though it can take up to five business days depending on the recipient's bank and when the check is deposited. Bank of America will show the check as pending in your account activity until it clears.

What should I do if I write a check and then realize I do not have enough money in my account?

Contact Bank of America when ready and ask about stopping payment on the check. There is usually a fee ($25 to $35), and the stop payment request must be made before the check is deposited. If the check has already cleared, you will have an overdraft, and your account may be charged overdraft fees.

Do I need to use checks ordered from Bank of America, or can I use checks from another bank?

You can use checks from any bank as long as they are printed with your Bank of America account number and routing number. However, ordering checks directly from Bank of America ensures they are printed correctly with your account information. You can order checks through your online banking portal or by calling Bank of America.