Ordering checks might feel like a relic of the past, but having physical checkbooks on hand remains essential for paying rent, handling contractor invoices, or managing specific utility bills without transaction fees. If you hold an account with Bank of America, getting new checks requires navigating their online portal, understanding partnered printing services, or contacting customer support directly.
Beyond simply reordering checkbooks, maximizing your Bank of America checking account involves leveraging features like overdraft protection, avoiding monthly maintenance fees through minimum balance requirements, and utilizing mobile deposit tools efficiently. This guide details the exact steps required to order checks, explores associated costs, and highlights strategies to get the most value from your banking relationship.
How to Order Bank of America Checks
Bank of America partners with third-party secure check printers, primarily Deluxe, to fulfill check orders for personal and business accounts. You can place an order through several channels depending on your preference for digital self-service or phone assistance.
Ordering Online Through Online Banking
The fastest way to request a new batch of checks is through your online banking dashboard.
- Log in to your Bank of America online banking account using a desktop browser or the mobile app.
- Navigate to the specific checking account for which you need checks.
- Look for account services or check reordering options, typically found under the information or services tab. If you cannot locate the direct link, you can navigate directly through the bank's external check provider partner portal by verifying your routing and account numbers.
- Select your check style, font, and design preferences. Bank of America offers standard personal checks as well as custom designs featuring collegiate logos, scenic views, or charitable organizations.
- Review your name, address, and starting check number carefully to ensure accuracy before submitting.
- Choose your shipping method. Standard shipping is usually free or low-cost, while expedited shipping incurs extra fees.
Ordering by Phone or in Person
If you prefer speaking with a representative, you have alternative options available.
- Phone Support: Call customer service at the number listed on the back of your debit card or the main Bank of America support line. A representative can access your account details and place the check order directly with the printer on your behalf.
- Financial Centers: Visit a local Bank of America branch. A banking associate can assist you with placing the order at a desk or through an ATM/terminal inside the lobby. Note that visiting a branch may not speed up production time since prints are manufactured off-site.
Understanding Costs and Delivery Times
Check orders are rarely entirely free unless you maintain specific account tiers with relationship rewards. Standard checking accounts usually require you to pay for check printing out of pocket.
- Pricing: Prices vary based on the quantity (boxes of 100, 200, or more) and the design complexity. Simple styles cost less, while custom artwork or duplicate carbon-copy checks cost more.
- Account Perks: If you participate in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, certain tiers qualify for free standard check orders as part of your banking benefits. Check your specific tier status in your account settings before paying for an order.
- Delivery: Standard delivery typically takes between seven to ten business days. If you choose expedited shipping, checks can arrive in two to three business days, though you will pay a higher shipping surcharge.
Common Mistakes When Reordering Checks
Ordering checks seems straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to security issues or wasted money.
- Ignoring Address Updates: If you moved recently, double-check that your address on file with Bank of America is updated before ordering checks. Checks printed with an old address create confusion for merchants and expose personal information if mail gets misdelivered.
- Incorrect Starting Numbers: Make sure your starting check number matches the sequence of your previous book. If you guess the number incorrectly, your check register will have gaps or duplicate numbers, making personal bookkeeping difficult.
- Ordering Too Many at Once: Most people write very few physical checks today. Ordering multiple boxes at once often leads to checks sitting in a drawer for years, especially if your address or phone number changes in the meantime. Start with a single box unless you write checks daily.
- Falling for Third-Party Scams: Never use random search engine ads to order Bank of America checks. Unverified third-party websites can steal your routing and account numbers. Always initiate the order directly through the official Bank of America website.
Maximizing Your Checking Account Benefits
Ordering checks is just one small part of managing your money. To get the most out of a Bank of America checking account, you need to minimize fees and utilize built-in account protections.
Avoiding Monthly Maintenance Fees
Most Bank of America checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet specific criteria. You can waive these fees by maintaining a minimum daily balance or setting up qualifying direct deposits each statement cycle. Review your specific account agreement to ensure you hit these thresholds so you aren't losing money to avoidable banking fees.
Setting Up Overdraft Protection
Accidental overdrafts happen. Link your checking account to a linked savings account, credit card, or line of credit to serve as overdraft protection. This setup prevents declined transactions and costly non-sufficient fund fees by automatically transferring available funds when your checking balance dips too low.
Leveraging Digital Security Alerts
Monitor your account closely using the Bank of America Mobile Banking App to set up real-time text or push notifications. Getting alerts for card purchases, ATM withdrawals, and low balances helps you spot fraudulent activity instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the address printed on my checks?
Yes, but you must update your official address with Bank of America first. Once your account profile reflects your new address, you can place a check order and the new address will print automatically.
Are checks free with Bank of America?
Standard checking accounts do not include free checks. However, members enrolled in the Preferred Rewards program often receive free standard personal checks as part of their tier benefits.
What should I do if my checks are lost or stolen in the mail?
Contact Bank of America customer service immediately to report the missing checks. They will advise you on whether to close the account or place a stop-payment alert on the specific check number range to protect against fraud.
How do I find my routing and account numbers for check reordering?
You can find your routing and account numbers at the bottom of any existing check. The first set of nine numbers is your routing number, and the second set is your account number. You can also view these numbers by logging into your online banking portal and viewing your account details.
