Bank of America provides free checks to most checking account holders, but the method depends on your account type and how you order them
Bank of America does not charge for your first order of checks when you open a new checking account. After that, you can order checks free through your online banking portal, the mobile app, or by calling customer service. The catch: free checks take 7 to 10 business days to arrive, and you must order them through Bank of America's official channels, not a third-party vendor.
If you need checks faster or want a specific design, Bank of America offers paid expedited options. But for standard checks delivered to your mailing address, the cost is zero if you use the bank's own ordering system.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America includes one free initial check order with most new checking accounts, and subsequent orders are free if you order through the bank's website or app.
- Standard free checks arrive in 7 to 10 business days; expedited delivery costs extra and is available only through the bank's online ordering system.
- You can order free checks online, through the mobile app, or by phone at 1-800-432-1000, but third-party check vendors charge a fee even if you are a Bank of America customer.
- Specialty checks with custom designs, images, or logos cost more than standard checks and are not included in the free tier.
How to order free checks online or through the mobile app
Log into your Bank of America online banking account or open the mobile app. Navigate to the "Accounts" or "Services" section and look for "Order Checks" or "Manage Checks." Select your checking account, choose the standard check style (usually the only free option), and enter the quantity you want. Bank of America typically allows you to order up to 200 checks at a time for free.
Review the delivery address — it defaults to the address on file for your account. If you need the checks sent elsewhere, update the address before confirming. Once you submit the order, you will receive a confirmation email with an order number and estimated delivery date. Standard delivery is 7 to 10 business days from the order date.
Ordering free checks by phone
Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and say you want to order checks. Have your account number ready. A representative will confirm your account details, ask how many checks you need, and verify the mailing address. They will place the order over the phone and give you a confirmation number and expected delivery window.
Phone orders follow the same timeline and cost as online orders — free standard checks in 7 to 10 business days. This method works if you do not have online access or prefer speaking to someone directly.
What happens if you order checks from a third-party vendor
Bank of America allows you to order checks from outside vendors like Deluxe, Costco, or Walmart, but these vendors charge a fee — usually $10 to $20 per box, even though you are a Bank of America customer. The bank does not subsidize third-party orders. You may see ads for "free checks" from these vendors, but the offer typically applies only to new customers or requires a minimum order.
If you choose a third-party vendor, make sure the routing number and account number printed on the checks match your Bank of America account exactly. Errors in these numbers can cause checks to bounce or be rejected by your bank.
Expedited and specialty check options
If you need checks in fewer than 7 days, Bank of America offers rush delivery for a fee — usually $15 to $25 depending on how fast you need them. You can order expedited checks only through the bank's online system or by phone; third-party vendors do not have access to Bank of America's rush program.
Specialty checks with custom designs, photos, or logos cost more than standard checks and are never free. Bank of America offers these through its online ordering system, but you pay per box. Prices vary based on the design complexity and quantity ordered.
Troubleshooting delayed or missing checks
If your checks do not arrive within the stated delivery window, log into your online account and check the order status. Bank of America shows tracking information for most orders. If the status says "delivered" but you have not received them, check with others in your household or contact your mail carrier.
If checks are genuinely lost or damaged, call 1-800-432-1000 and report the issue with your order number. Bank of America will usually reorder them at no charge and may offer expedited delivery as a courtesy. Keep your confirmation email until the checks arrive so you have the order number ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay for checks if I have a premium Bank of America account?
No. All Bank of America checking accounts include free standard checks ordered through the bank. Premium accounts like Preferred Rewards do not change the check ordering policy — you still get free standard checks with the same 7 to 10 day delivery.
Can I order checks if I have a savings account instead of a checking account?
No. Checks are only available for checking accounts. Savings accounts do not come with check-writing privileges. If you need to write checks, you must have a Bank of America checking account.
What if I need checks before the 7 to 10 days are up?
Bank of America offers expedited delivery for a fee, usually $15 to $25 depending on how quickly you need them. You can order rush checks through your online account or by calling 1-800-432-1000. Some orders can be delivered in 2 to 3 business days, but this service costs extra.
Can I order checks for a joint account?
Yes. If you have a joint checking account, either account holder can order checks online or by phone. The checks will print both names on them unless you specify otherwise during the ordering process.
What if my account is closed — can I still order checks?
No. You can only order checks for an active Bank of America checking account. If your account is closed, you cannot place a new check order through the bank.