Your main options for cashing a Bank of America check

You can cash a Bank of America check at any Bank of America branch, at an ATM if you have a Bank of America account, or at most other banks and credit unions if you have an account there. If you don't have a bank account anywhere, you can cash it at a check-cashing store, though they will charge you a fee. Walmart, Target, and some grocery stores also cash checks for a small fee.

The fastest and cheapest option depends on whether you have a bank account and which bank it's with. A Bank of America customer can deposit or cash the check when ready at any branch. Someone without a bank account will pay a fee but can still get cash the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America customers can cash checks at any Bank of America branch during business hours, or deposit them at an ATM or through the mobile app.
  • Non-customers can cash Bank of America checks at other banks or credit unions where they have an account, usually for free.
  • Check-cashing stores, Walmart, Target, and some grocery stores will cash checks for a fee ranging from a few dollars to a percentage of the check amount.
  • Depositing through the Bank of America mobile app (if you have an account) is the fastest option and requires no trip to a branch.

Cashing at a Bank of America branch

If you have a Bank of America account, walk into any Bank of America branch with your check and a valid ID. A teller will cash it on the spot during business hours. You don't need to go to the branch where you opened your account — any location works.

If you don't have a Bank of America account, most branches will still cash the check, but you may be asked to provide a phone number and address so they can record the transaction. Some branches have stricter policies, so calling ahead is worth doing if you want to be certain. Look up your nearest branch on the Bank of America website or call 1-800-432-1000.

Using an ATM or mobile app

Bank of America customers can deposit a check at any Bank of America ATM by inserting the check into the machine. The deposit usually shows up in your account within one business day. This works 24/7, so you don't have to wait for branch hours.

The Bank of America mobile app also lets you deposit checks by taking a photo of the front and back. This is often the fastest way — the deposit may post within hours. You'll need the app installed on your phone and your account login information.

Cashing at another bank or credit union

If you have an account at a different bank or credit union, you can usually cash a Bank of America check there for free. Bring the check and a valid ID. Some banks limit the number of third-party checks you can cash per month or per transaction, so ask the teller first.

Credit unions are often more flexible with this than large banks. If you're a member of a credit union, it's worth asking — many will cash checks from other banks as a service to members, even if there's a small fee.

Check-cashing stores and retail locations

Check-cashing stores will cash almost any check, including Bank of America checks, without requiring you to have an account. You'll need a valid ID. The fee varies but is typically between $5 and $15 for a personal check, or a percentage of the check amount (often 1% to 3%). The larger the check, the higher the fee in dollar terms.

Walmart and Target both cash checks at their customer service desks during store hours. Walmart charges around $3 to $6 depending on the check amount. Some grocery stores and pharmacies also offer check cashing, usually for $2 to $5. Call ahead to confirm the store near you offers this service and what they charge.

What you'll need to bring

At any location, bring the check itself and a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID, or passport. If you're depositing through an ATM or the mobile app, you won't need an ID, but you'll need your account login information.

If you're cashing a check made out to someone else, most places will refuse. Some banks will cash a check if the payee signs it over to you (called a third-party check), but this is becoming less common. Ask before you try.

Timing and what to expect

Cashing at a branch or retail location happens when ready — you walk out with cash the same day. Depositing through an ATM or mobile app takes longer: the check usually clears within one to two business days, though Bank of America sometimes posts deposits faster.

If the check is damaged, illegible, or missing information (like a signature or date), any location may refuse to cash it. If the check is very large, a retail store may refuse it or ask you to come back later while they verify it. Bank branches are more likely to handle large checks without hesitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a Bank of America check if I don't have a bank account?

Yes. You can cash it at a Bank of America branch (though policies vary by location), at a check-cashing store, or at Walmart, Target, or some grocery stores. Each option charges a different fee or no fee at all. A Bank of America branch may not charge you, but a check-cashing store typically charges $3 to $15.

How long does it take to cash a check at Bank of America?

At a branch or ATM, it's when ready or within one business day if you deposit it. Through the mobile app, deposits often post within hours but can take up to two business days. Cashing at a retail store like Walmart happens when ready.

Will Bank of America cash a check made out to someone else?

Most locations will not cash a third-party check (one made out to someone other than you). Some banks allow the payee to sign it over to you, but this is rare and policies vary. Your best option is to ask the person who wrote the check to write a new one in your name.

What if the check is damaged or torn?

A Bank of America branch is most likely to accept a damaged check if it's still readable and has all the necessary information. Check-cashing stores and retail locations may refuse it. If it's badly damaged, contact the person who wrote it and ask for a replacement check.

Is there a fee to cash a Bank of America check at another bank?

If you have an account at that bank or credit union, there is usually no fee. If you don't have an account there, some banks will cash it for free as a courtesy, but others may charge $5 to $10. Call ahead and ask.