Bank of America issues cashier's checks at most branches

Yes, Bank of America offers cashier's checks at branches that handle retail banking. A cashier's check is a check drawn on the bank's own account and signed by a bank officer, which makes it more secure than a personal check because the funds are may provide by the bank itself. You can order one in person at any Bank of America branch during business hours, and most branches can issue it the same day.

The process is straightforward: you go to a teller, tell them you need a cashier's check, provide the name of the payee (the person or business receiving the money), and give them the amount. The teller will deduct the funds from your account immediately and print the check. You'll receive the check and a receipt showing the transaction.

Bank of America charges a fee for cashier's checks. The fee varies by state and account type, but typically ranges from $10 to $15 per check. Some account holders with premium accounts or high balances may have the fee waived—ask your branch about your specific account.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America issues cashier's checks at retail branches during business hours, usually the same day you request one.
  • You need to provide the payee's name and the amount; the bank deducts the funds from your account immediately.
  • Cashier's checks carry a fee of roughly $10 to $15, though some account types may have it waived.
  • Cashier's checks are safer than personal checks for large transactions because the bank guarantees the funds.

What you need to bring to the branch

Bring a valid photo ID and your debit card or account information. The teller will need to verify your identity and confirm you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the check amount plus the fee. If you're ordering a check for a large amount, call ahead to make sure the branch has enough cash on hand, though this is rarely a problem at Bank of America locations.

If you're not a Bank of America customer, you cannot order a cashier's check from the bank. Non-customers can sometimes get a cashier's check from another bank where they hold an account, or they can ask the payee whether they'll accept a certified check or money order instead.

How long a cashier's check takes to clear

Once the payee deposits a Bank of America cashier's check, it typically clears within one to two business days. Because the check is drawn on the bank's account rather than yours, the receiving bank treats it as a may provide payment and processes it faster than a personal check would clear.

The payee should deposit the check promptly. A cashier's check does not expire, but if it sits uncashed for a very long time (usually several years), the payee may have difficulty depositing it and may need to contact Bank of America to verify it's still valid. If you lose a cashier's check before it's cashed, contact your Bank of America branch immediately to report it and request a replacement.

When to use a cashier's check instead of other payment methods

Use a cashier's check when the payee needs may provide funds and won't accept a personal check, credit card, or bank transfer. Common situations include large real estate transactions, down payments on vehicles, security deposits for rentals, and payments to contractors or businesses you haven't worked with before. Cashier's checks are also useful when you need a paper record of payment and the payee won't accept digital transfers.

For smaller amounts or routine bills, a bank transfer (ACH) or bill pay through your Bank of America account is usually faster and free. For very large amounts or international payments, wire transfer may be more appropriate, though it carries a higher fee. Ask yourself whether the payee actually requires a check or whether they'd accept a faster method—many businesses now prefer direct deposit or digital payment.

Alternatives if you can't get to a branch

Bank of America does not issue cashier's checks online or by mail. You must visit a branch in person. If you cannot reach a branch during business hours, you have a few options: visit on a Saturday (most branches are open), call your branch to confirm hours, or ask whether another nearby branch has extended hours.

If you need a cashier's check urgently and cannot visit a branch, consider whether the payee will accept a certified check (which you can sometimes order by phone and pick up), a money order (available at many retailers and post offices), or a wire transfer through your Bank of America account online. Wire transfers are faster but cost more and cannot be reversed once sent, so use them only when you trust the recipient.

What happens if a cashier's check is lost or stolen

If you lose a cashier's check before giving it to the payee, contact your Bank of America branch immediately. The bank can place a stop payment on the check, which prevents anyone else from cashing it. You'll need to provide the check number, amount, and payee name. The bank may charge a stop payment fee (typically $25 to $35) and may require you to wait a certain period (often 90 days) before issuing a replacement, to ensure the original check doesn't surface and get cashed twice.

If someone cashes a stolen cashier's check in your name, report it to your branch and to the police. Because the check is drawn on Bank of America's account, the bank bears the loss, not you—but you'll still need to document the theft for your records and for any insurance claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a cashier's check over the phone?

No. Bank of America requires you to order cashier's checks in person at a branch. You cannot order by phone, online, or by mail. Visit during business hours with your ID and account information.

What if I don't have enough money in my account right now?

You must have sufficient funds available at the time you request the check. The bank deducts the amount immediately. If you're short, deposit funds first or wait until you have enough. Some branches may allow you to use funds from a linked savings account if your checking account is low.

Is a cashier's check the same as a certified check?

No. A certified check is your personal check that the bank stamps to certify the funds are available. A cashier's check is the bank's own check. Cashier's checks are considered more secure because they're may provide by the bank itself, not just certified to have funds behind them.

How long is a cashier's check good for?

Cashier's checks do not expire legally, but some banks and businesses may refuse to cash or deposit one that's very old (typically more than six months or a year). If your check is old, contact Bank of America to confirm it's still valid before giving it to the payee.

Can I cancel a cashier's check after I've received it?

Yes, but only if the payee has not yet cashed it. Contact your branch and request a stop payment. You'll likely pay a fee and may need to wait a period before receiving a replacement. Once the check is cashed, it cannot be reversed.