Bank of America cashes checks for customers and non-customers, but the terms differ

Bank of America will cash a check for you even if you don't have an account there. However, the bank charges a fee for non-customers, and the amount depends on the check size. If you have a Bank of America account, you can cash checks for free at any branch, and you can also deposit checks through their mobile app or ATM without visiting a teller.

The key difference is whether the check is drawn on a Bank of America account. A check drawn on BofA (meaning the payer's bank is Bank of America) costs less to cash than a check from another bank. Non-customers should expect to pay a fee either way, though the fee is smaller for BofA checks.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America customers can cash checks free at any branch, regardless of which bank issued the check.
  • Non-customers pay a fee to cash checks at Bank of America: the fee is lower for checks drawn on BofA accounts than for checks from other banks.
  • You must present a valid government-issued photo ID to cash any check, whether you have an account or not.
  • Bank of America customers can deposit checks remotely using the mobile app or an ATM, without visiting a branch.
  • The fee amount varies by location and check size, so call your local branch before you go to confirm the current fee.

What non-customers pay to cash a check at Bank of America

Bank of America charges non-customers a fee based on the check amount. The fee structure varies by branch location, so the exact amount you'll pay depends on where you cash the check. Generally, the fee is a percentage of the check value or a flat amount, whichever is higher. For a check drawn on a Bank of America account, the fee is typically lower than for a check from another bank.

The best way to find out the exact fee is to call the branch where you plan to cash the check. Staff can tell you the current fee for your specific check amount. Some branches may waive the fee in certain situations, though this is not may provide. If the fee seems high, you can also ask whether the check can be deposited into a temporary account instead, though this option is not available everywhere.

What you need to bring to cash a check

You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID to cash any check at Bank of America, whether you have an account or not. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card. The name on your ID must match the name on the check exactly.

If the check is made out to someone else and you are trying to cash it on their behalf, you will need their signature on the back of the check (an endorsement) and their ID as well. Bank of America will not cash a check made out to a third party without both signatures and both IDs present.

How Bank of America customers can cash checks without visiting a branch

If you have a Bank of America checking or savings account, you can deposit checks without going to a branch. The Bank of America mobile app lets you photograph the front and back of a check and deposit it directly into your account. This typically takes one to two business days to process.

You can also deposit checks at Bank of America ATMs. Insert the check into the ATM, follow the prompts, and the funds will be added to your account. ATM deposits usually process the same day if you deposit before the cutoff time, which varies by location but is typically in the early evening. If you need cash when ready rather than a deposit, you still need to visit a teller at a branch.

Cashing checks at Bank of America branches versus other options

Bank of America has thousands of branches nationwide, so a location is often convenient. However, non-customers pay a fee, and the fee can add up if you cash checks regularly. If you receive checks frequently, opening a free checking account at Bank of America might save you money over time, since account holders cash checks for free.

Other options for cashing checks include your own bank (free if you have an account there), check-cashing stores (which charge a percentage fee), grocery stores with check-cashing services (sometimes free for customers), and Walmart (which cashes checks for a flat fee). The best choice depends on where you bank, how often you need to cash checks, and which option is most convenient to you.

What happens if the check amount is very large

Bank of America may place a hold on large checks, even for customers. A hold means the bank verifies the check is legitimate before releasing the funds to you. The hold period varies but is typically one to five business days depending on the check amount and the bank that issued it.

For non-customers cashing a large check, the hold period may be longer, and the bank may ask additional questions about the source of the check. If you need the cash urgently, tell the teller when you arrive. Some branches can expedite verification for large checks, though this is not may provide. If the check is from an out-of-state bank, expect the hold to be longer than for a local check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check at a Bank of America ATM without an account?

No. Bank of America ATMs only accept deposits from account holders. Non-customers must visit a branch and speak with a teller to cash a check. The teller will process the transaction and charge the non-customer fee.

What if my name doesn't match the name on the check exactly?

The name must match exactly as it appears on the check. If you have recently changed your name or the check has a nickname or middle initial you don't normally use, bring documentation of the name change or explain the discrepancy to the teller. The teller has discretion to cash or refuse the check.

Can I cash a check made out to my business at Bank of America?

Yes, if you have a business account at Bank of America. You will need to bring the check and your business ID or documentation showing you are authorized to conduct business on behalf of the company. Non-customers cannot cash business checks at Bank of America.

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

The process usually takes five to ten minutes if the check is straightforward and you have your ID ready. During busy times, you may wait longer. If the bank needs to verify the check or if it is very large, the teller may place a hold and you will not receive all the cash when ready.

What if the check is damaged or torn?

Bank of America may still cash a damaged check if the amount, date, and signatures are legible and the check is not so damaged that it cannot be processed. Bring the check to a teller and explain the damage. The teller will decide whether to accept it or contact the issuing bank for verification.