Bank of America will cash a check for you even if you don't have an account, but there are limits and fees
Yes, Bank of America will cash a check without requiring you to be a customer. However, the bank charges a fee for this service, and the amount you can cash in a single day is limited. If the check is drawn on Bank of America itself (meaning the check came from a Bank of America account), the fee is smaller and the limit is higher than if the check is from another bank.
The specifics depend on the check amount and which bank issued it. You'll need to bring the check and a valid photo ID to any Bank of America branch during business hours. The teller will verify the check and process it on the spot if it passes their security checks.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America charges a fee to cash checks for non-customers, with the fee amount depending on whether the check is drawn on Bank of America or another bank.
- Checks drawn on Bank of America have a higher daily cash limit than checks from other banks, though both limits exist.
- You must bring a valid photo ID and the original check to a Bank of America branch to cash it.
- The bank may refuse to cash a check if it fails security checks, is post-dated, or is older than a certain age.
Fees for cashing checks without an account
Bank of America charges different fees depending on the source of the check. For checks drawn on Bank of America accounts, the fee is typically lower than for checks from other banks. For checks drawn on other banks, the fee is higher. Both fees are charged at the time you cash the check.
The exact fee amounts vary by location and can change, so ask the teller for the current fee before you proceed. Some branches may have slightly different policies, so calling ahead to confirm the fee at your nearest location is a reasonable step if you want to know the exact cost before you arrive.
Daily limits on check cashing
Bank of America sets a maximum amount you can cash in a single day without an account. The limit is higher for checks drawn on Bank of America itself than for checks drawn on other banks. If your check exceeds the daily limit for that type of check, the bank will not cash it.
These limits exist as a security measure to reduce fraud risk. If you have a check that exceeds the limit, you have a few options: you can open a Bank of America account and deposit it instead, you can try cashing it at the bank that issued the check, or you can explore other check-cashing services in your area.
What you need to bring to the branch
Bring the original check and a valid photo ID. The ID must be government-issued and current — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The teller will write down your ID information and may ask you to sign the back of the check.
Do not sign the check before you arrive at the bank. The teller will direct you on where to sign and how to sign it. If you've already signed it, tell the teller before they process it, as they may need to see your signature match.
Checks the bank will not cash
Bank of America will refuse to cash a check if it is post-dated (dated for a future date), if it is stale-dated (typically more than six months old), if it has been altered or appears fraudulent, or if the signature does not match the ID you present. The bank may also refuse if the check is missing required information like a signature or routing number.
If a check is refused, ask the teller why. If the reason is something you can fix — like a missing signature — you may be able to correct it and try again. If the check itself is questionable, the bank will not process it, and you'll need to contact the person or business that issued the check to get a replacement.
Alternatives if Bank of America won't cash your check
If the check is drawn on another bank, try cashing it at that bank directly. Most banks will cash their own checks for non-customers, often with a lower fee or no fee at all. Call the bank first to confirm they offer this service and what they charge.
Check-cashing stores and some grocery stores with customer service counters also cash checks for a fee. These services are often faster than going to a bank branch, though the fees may be higher. Payday loan stores typically cash checks as well, though their fees are usually the highest of all options.
Opening a Bank of America account instead
If you plan to cash checks regularly, opening a Bank of America account may save you money in the long run. The bank offers checking accounts with no monthly fee, and once you have an account, you can deposit checks without paying a per-check fee. You can also deposit checks using the mobile app or an ATM, without visiting a branch.
To open an account, visit a branch with a photo ID and proof of address (like a utility bill or lease). The process takes about 15 minutes. You'll choose a checking account type, provide your Social Security number, and fund the account with an initial deposit if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check at Bank of America if it's made out to someone else?
No. The check must be made out to you, and your ID must match the name on the check. If the check is made out to someone else, that person must be present with their ID to cash it, or they must sign the back of the check and write "Pay to the order of [your name]" above their signature — though many banks, including Bank of America, may still refuse to cash a third-party check.
What happens if my check bounces after I cash it?
If the check bounces (meaning the account it was drawn on has insufficient funds), Bank of America will debit the amount from your ID holder's account if you have one. If you don't have an account, the bank may pursue collection or report it to check verification systems. This is rare for legitimate checks but can happen if the check was fraudulent or the account holder made an error.
Can I cash a check online or by mail without going to a branch?
No. Bank of America requires you to cash checks in person at a branch. You must present your photo ID to the teller. However, if you open an account, you can deposit checks by mail or through the mobile app without visiting a branch.
Do all Bank of America branches cash checks the same way?
The process is the same at all branches, but fees and daily limits may vary slightly by location. Call your nearest branch before you go to confirm the current fee and whether they can cash your specific check amount.
Is there a time limit on how old a check can be?
Yes. Bank of America typically will not cash checks that are more than six months old, though the exact policy may vary. If your check is older than six months, contact the person or business that issued it and ask for a replacement check.