What a voided check is and why you need one
A voided check is a check you've written "VOID" across the front so it cannot be cashed or deposited. Banks, employers, and service providers ask for voided checks to set up direct deposit, automatic bill payments, or other recurring transfers from your account. The check itself never gets used for payment—it's just proof that you own the account and that the routing and account numbers on it are correct.
Bank of America customers can get a voided check in two ways: write one yourself from your checkbook, or request one from the bank if you don't have checks. Both methods take only a few minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The fastest way to get a voided check is to write one from your checkbook, write "VOID" in large letters across the front, and give it to whoever needs it.
- If you don't have checks, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person to request one; the bank can print it on the spot or mail it to you.
- A voided check shows your routing number (the nine-digit code at the bottom left) and account number (at the bottom center), which is all the recipient actually needs.
- Never give out a voided check to someone you don't trust, because it contains the information needed to set up unauthorized transfers from your account.
Writing and voiding a check from your checkbook
If you have a Bank of America checkbook, this is the simplest route. Take a blank check and write "VOID" in large, clear letters across the front—across the memo line and the signature line both. Use a pen so it cannot be erased. Do not fill in any other information on the check: leave the payee line, amount line, and date blank.
Once you've written "VOID" across it, the check is ready to hand over. The person or organization requesting it only needs to see the routing number (the nine-digit code at the bottom left of the check) and your account number (the second set of numbers at the bottom, usually 10 to 12 digits). Both are printed on every check Bank of America issues.
Requesting a voided check from Bank of America if you have no checkbook
If you don't have checks or have run out, Bank of America can provide a voided check. Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or at 1-800-432-1000. Tell the representative you need a voided check and explain why (direct deposit setup, bill payment authorization, etc.). They will ask you to verify your identity with your account number, Social Security number, or other information.
The bank can print and mail a voided check to your address on file, which usually arrives within 5 to 7 business days. Some branches can also print one for you on the spot if you visit in person with your ID. Call ahead to confirm your branch offers this service, since not all locations have the equipment to print checks immediately.
What information appears on your voided check
Every Bank of America check contains the same key pieces of information at the bottom:
- Your routing number: a nine-digit code that identifies Bank of America and your region. For most Bank of America accounts, this is 026009593, though it can vary by state and account type.
- Your account number: a 10- to 12-digit code unique to your checking account.
- The check number: printed in the bottom right corner, which increments with each check in your book.
The recipient of your voided check needs only the routing and account numbers to set up direct deposit or automatic payments. They do not need the check number, and they do not need to see your name or address, though both appear on the check.
Security and safety when sharing a voided check
A voided check contains enough information for someone to set up unauthorized transfers from your account if they have access to it. Only give a voided check to organizations you trust and that have a legitimate reason to ask for it: your employer's payroll department, your bank, a utility company, a loan servicer, or a government agency processing benefits.
Do not email a voided check to someone unless you initiated the request and you are certain of their identity. If an organization asks you to email a voided check, call them back using the phone number on your bill or their official website to confirm the request is real. Scammers sometimes pose as utilities or service providers to collect banking information.
If you believe someone has misused the information from a voided check, contact Bank of America immediately at 1-800-432-1000. The bank can monitor your account for unauthorized activity and can reverse transfers that were not authorized by you.
Alternatives if you cannot get a voided check
Some organizations will accept other proof of your account information instead of a voided check. Ask whether they will take a bank statement (which shows your routing and account numbers), a letter from Bank of America on official letterhead confirming your account details, or a screenshot of your account information from the Bank of America mobile app or website.
If you need a letter from the bank, call 1-800-432-1000 and ask for account verification. The representative can email or mail you a document on Bank of America letterhead that lists your routing number, account number, and account type. This usually arrives within 2 to 3 business days if emailed, or 5 to 7 if mailed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I void a check that's already been printed with my name and address on it?
Yes. Write "VOID" across the front in pen and give it to whoever needs it. The printed name and address do not affect its use as proof of your account information—the recipient only needs the routing and account numbers at the bottom.
What if I don't know my routing number?
Your routing number appears at the bottom left of any check you have. If you have no checks, log into your Bank of America account online or in the mobile app and look for account details or routing information. You can also call 1-800-432-1000 and ask the representative to provide it.
How long does it take Bank of America to mail a voided check?
Mailed voided checks usually arrive within 5 to 7 business days. If you need one faster, visit a Bank of America branch in person with your ID and ask whether they can print one immediately. Not all branches offer this service, so call ahead to confirm.
Can someone use a voided check to withdraw money from my account?
No. A voided check cannot be deposited or cashed because it is marked void. However, someone with your routing and account numbers could set up unauthorized automatic transfers or bill payments. Only share your voided check with trusted organizations.
Do I need to order new checks if I void one from my checkbook?
No. Voiding one check does not affect the rest of your checkbook. The remaining checks are still valid and can be used normally. You only need to order new checks when you run out or want a different design.