Bank of America ATMs cannot cash checks
Bank of America ATMs do not have the ability to cash checks. They can only dispense cash, accept deposits, and perform balance inquiries. If you need to cash a check, you will need to visit a Bank of America branch during business hours or use one of the other methods described below.
This limitation applies to all Bank of America ATMs, whether they are located inside a branch, at a retail partner location, or in a standalone kiosk. The machine simply does not have the mechanical capability to process a check for cash.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America ATMs cannot cash checks under any circumstances; you must visit a branch or use an alternative method.
- Bank of America branches can cash checks for account holders and non-account holders during business hours, though non-account holders may face restrictions or fees.
- You can deposit a check at a Bank of America ATM and receive cash back the same day if your account has sufficient funds, though this counts as a withdrawal.
- Mobile check deposit through the Bank of America app lets you deposit checks remotely, with funds typically available within one business day.
- Retail partners like Walmart, Target, and grocery stores can cash checks for free or a small fee if you do not have access to a bank branch.
Cashing a check at a Bank of America branch
The most straightforward way to cash a check is to visit a Bank of America branch in person. If you have a Bank of America account, you can cash checks at any branch during business hours with your debit card or ID. The teller will verify your account, confirm the check is valid, and give you cash on the spot.
If you do not have a Bank of America account, you can still cash a check at a Bank of America branch, but the process has limits. Bank of America allows non-account holders to cash checks up to $5,000 per check, though some branches may set lower limits. You will need a valid government-issued ID, and the check must be drawn on a Bank of America account. Some branches may charge a fee for non-account holders, typically $5 to $10 per check, though this varies by location.
Branch hours vary by location. You can find your nearest branch and its hours on the Bank of America website or by calling 1-800-432-1000.
Depositing a check at an ATM and withdrawing cash
If you have a Bank of America account, you can deposit a check at a Bank of America ATM and then withdraw cash from the same account in a single visit. This is not the same as cashing the check at the ATM—you are depositing it and then withdrawing your own money—but it achieves the same result if your account has sufficient funds.
To do this, insert your debit card, select deposit, follow the ATM prompts to scan or insert the check, and confirm the amount. Once the deposit is processed, you can immediately withdraw cash up to your available balance. The check itself will be held by the ATM and processed by the bank, typically within one business day.
This method works only if you have an account with Bank of America and if your account balance covers the amount you want to withdraw. If the check bounces later, the withdrawal will be reversed and you may face overdraft fees.
Mobile check deposit through the Bank of America app
Bank of America customers can deposit checks using the mobile app without visiting a branch or ATM. Open the app, select "Deposit a Check," take photos of the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and confirm. The check is deposited into your account, and funds are typically available within one business day.
This method does not give you cash immediately, but it is faster than mailing a check and more convenient than visiting a branch. Once the funds are in your account, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM or branch.
Mobile check deposit has limits. Bank of America typically allows up to $2,500 per check and $5,000 per day for mobile deposits, though these limits may vary based on your account type and history.
Cashing a check at retail partners
If you do not have access to a Bank of America branch or account, you can cash checks at many retail locations. Walmart, Target, grocery store customer service desks, and check-cashing services will cash checks for a fee, usually between $1 and $5 depending on the check amount and the retailer.
Some retailers offer free check cashing for customers who use their store loyalty programs or credit cards. Walmart, for example, cashes checks for free for Walmart MoneyCard holders. Check the policies at your nearest retailer before you go.
Check-cashing businesses are another option, though they typically charge higher fees than retailers—often 2 to 5 percent of the check amount. They are useful if you need to cash a check outside of business hours or if the check is drawn on a bank that retailers do not accept.
What to do if the check is not drawn on a Bank of America account
Bank of America branches will only cash checks drawn on Bank of America accounts for non-account holders. If your check is drawn on another bank, you have several options.
If you have an account at the bank that issued the check, you can cash it there for free. If you do not, you can deposit the check into your Bank of America account using mobile deposit or an ATM, and the funds will be available within one to two business days. Alternatively, you can take the check to a retail partner like Walmart or a check-cashing service, which will cash checks from any bank for a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check at a Bank of America ATM if I have an account?
No. Bank of America ATMs cannot cash checks for any customer, regardless of account status. You must visit a branch, use mobile deposit, or deposit the check at an ATM and then withdraw cash from your account balance.
Will Bank of America cash a check if I am not a customer?
Yes, but only if the check is drawn on a Bank of America account and you have a valid government-issued ID. The limit is typically $5,000 per check, and some branches charge a fee of $5 to $10. Call ahead to confirm your branch's policy.
How long does it take for a check to clear after I deposit it at an ATM?
Checks deposited at Bank of America ATMs are typically processed within one business day. Funds may be available immediately for account holders with good standing, but this depends on the check amount and your account history.
Can I cash a check at a Bank of America ATM if it is drawn on another bank?
No. Bank of America ATMs cannot cash checks from any bank. You can deposit the check into your Bank of America account using mobile deposit or an ATM, or take it to a retail partner or check-cashing service.
What is the difference between cashing a check and depositing it?
Cashing a check means the bank gives you cash immediately in exchange for the check. Depositing means the check goes into your account and you withdraw your own money. At a Bank of America ATM, you can only deposit; you cannot cash.