Bank of America offers free checks to most checking account holders, but you have to order them through the right channel to avoid fees
Bank of America does not charge for checks if you order them directly through your account online or by phone. You can access the ordering system through your online banking portal or call the number on the back of your debit card. The bank prints and mails the checks to you at no cost — this is a standard service included with most checking accounts.
The catch: if you order checks through a third-party vendor (even one Bank of America recommends), you will pay for them. Bank of America's own ordering system is free. Any other route costs money, sometimes significantly more than ordering through the bank itself.
Key Takeaways
- Order checks through your Bank of America online banking account or by calling customer service to get them free; this is included with your checking account.
- Ordering through third-party check printers, even if Bank of America suggests them, will charge you a fee that varies by vendor and check style.
- Delivery takes one to two weeks through the bank's standard ordering system; expedited options exist but cost extra.
- You need your current account number and routing number to place an order, both visible on your existing checks or in your online account.
- If you close your account, you can still order checks for a short window, but the bank may charge a fee once your account is fully closed.
How to order checks through your online account
Log into your Bank of America online banking account and look for the "Checks" or "Order Checks" option, usually found under Account Services or a similar menu. Click through and select the check style you want — Bank of America offers several designs at no extra charge. Enter the quantity (typically 100, 200, or 500 checks per order) and confirm your mailing address.
The order will show an estimated delivery date, usually one to two weeks. You will not be charged anything. Once the checks arrive, verify that your account number and routing number are printed correctly before you use them.
Ordering checks by phone
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card and tell the representative you want to order checks. They will ask for your account number, the quantity you want, and confirm your mailing address. The call takes about five minutes. Again, there is no charge for this service.
If you have questions about check styles or need expedited delivery, the phone representative can explain what options exist and what they cost. Standard delivery is free; anything faster will have a fee attached.
What happens if you order through a third-party printer
Bank of America's website sometimes links to or recommends third-party check printers like Deluxe or other vendors. These companies will charge you for checks — often $15 to $30 per box depending on the design and quantity. You are paying for a service outside the bank, even though the bank may have directed you there.
The advantage of a third-party printer is usually speed (some offer next-day delivery) or design options beyond what the bank offers. But if you simply need standard checks and can wait one to two weeks, ordering through Bank of America itself costs nothing.
Expedited and specialty check options
If you need checks faster than the standard one to two weeks, Bank of America offers expedited delivery for a fee — usually $10 to $20 depending on how fast you need them. You can request this when you place your order online or by phone.
Specialty checks — those with custom designs, images, or unusual colors — may also carry a charge. The bank's standard check designs are free; anything beyond that typically costs money. Ask the representative or check the online ordering screen to see the price before you confirm.
Reordering checks and account changes
If you have ordered checks before, Bank of America usually remembers your preferences and makes reordering faster. You can often place a new order in just a few clicks. The same free service applies every time.
If you change your address, update it in your online account before ordering so the checks are mailed to the correct location. If you close your Bank of America account, you can still order checks for a limited time afterward, though the bank may charge a fee once the account is fully closed and no longer active.
What to do if your checks do not arrive
Check your order confirmation email for the expected delivery date. If checks do not arrive within that window, contact Bank of America customer service with your order number. The bank can track the shipment or issue a replacement order at no charge.
If checks arrive damaged or with incorrect information printed on them, call customer service immediately. The bank will reprint and resend them for free. Do not use checks with errors — contact the bank first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay for checks if I have a basic checking account?
No. Bank of America includes free checks with all standard checking accounts when you order through the bank's online system or by phone. The free service applies regardless of your account type or balance.
How long does it take to get checks after I order them?
Standard delivery takes one to two weeks. Expedited options are available for a fee and can deliver in three to five business days. The exact timeline appears when you place your order.
Can I order checks if I do not have online banking set up?
Yes. Call the number on the back of your debit card and a representative will take your order over the phone. You do not need online access to order free checks.
What if I want checks with a custom design or logo?
Bank of America's free checks come in standard designs only. Custom designs are available through third-party printers and will cost you. Ask a representative what options exist if you want something beyond the standard styles.
Will I be charged if I order checks after I close my account?
You can order checks for a short time after closing, but once your account is fully closed, the bank may charge a fee. Order any remaining checks you need before the account closure is complete to avoid the charge.