Bank of America will cash a check without an account, but only if you meet specific conditions
Bank of America cashes checks for non-customers at most branches, but the bank charges a fee and has limits on the amount. The check must be drawn on a Bank of America account, a Bank of America subsidiary, or certain partner banks. If the check is drawn on a different bank, Bank of America will not cash it — you would need to go to the bank that issued the check instead.
The fee for cashing a check as a non-customer is typically $6 to $15 per check, depending on the check amount and your location. Some branches may charge differently, so call ahead to confirm the exact fee. You will need a valid government-issued photo ID to cash any check.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America cashes checks drawn on Bank of America or its subsidiaries for non-customers, but charges a fee of $6 to $15.
- You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID; the check must be made payable to you or to you and another person.
- If the check is drawn on a different bank, you cannot cash it at Bank of America — you must go to that bank instead.
- Some Bank of America branches may refuse to cash very large checks or checks with problems, so calling ahead reduces the risk of a wasted trip.
What types of checks Bank of America will and will not cash
Bank of America will cash checks drawn on Bank of America itself, Bank of America subsidiaries (including Merrill Lynch Bank USA), and certain partner institutions. The bank maintains a list of partner banks, but it changes and varies by branch. Call your local Bank of America branch to confirm whether the check you hold will be cashed.
Bank of America will not cash checks drawn on other banks. If your check is from Wells Fargo, Chase, a credit union, or any other institution, you must take it to that bank or to a check-cashing service. Taking it to the issuing bank is usually free or costs less than the Bank of America fee.
The check must be made payable to you by name. If it is made payable to you and another person, both names must appear on the check, and you may need both people present with ID to cash it. Post-dated checks (dated in the future) and checks with alterations or damage may be refused.
The fee structure and what it depends on
Bank of America charges non-customers a fee to cash checks. The fee is not flat — it depends on the amount of the check. Smaller checks (under $100) typically cost $6, while larger checks cost more. A check for $1,000 or more may cost $15. These amounts vary by branch and region, so confirm the exact fee before you cash the check.
The fee is deducted from the check amount you receive. If you cash a $500 check and the fee is $10, you walk away with $490. Ask the teller for the fee amount before you hand over the check so you know exactly what you will receive.
What to bring and how the process works
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Bank of America will not cash a check without it. If you do not have photo ID, you cannot cash the check at Bank of America, even if you are the payee.
Bring the check itself and be prepared to endorse it (sign the back). Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours. Tell the teller you want to cash the check and that you do not have an account. The teller will verify the check, confirm the fee, and process the cash. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes if there are no problems with the check.
Some branches may place a hold on large checks or ask additional questions about the source of the check. If the check appears altered, has a missing signature, or has other red flags, the teller may refuse to cash it. Bring any documentation you have about where the check came from if you think questions might arise.
When Bank of America will refuse to cash a check
Bank of America may refuse to cash a check if it is drawn on a bank other than Bank of America or its partners. The bank may also refuse if the check is post-dated, has visible damage, shows signs of alteration, or lacks a signature. If the check amount seems unusually large for a non-customer transaction, the branch may ask you to return with the account holder or may refuse outright.
If a check is refused, ask the teller why. If the reason is that it is drawn on another bank, take it to that bank instead. If the reason is damage or alteration, contact the person or business that issued the check and ask for a replacement. If the reason is the amount, you may be able to cash it at a different branch or try again on a different day.
Alternatives if Bank of America will not cash your check
If the check is drawn on another bank, go to that bank's branch. Most banks cash checks for non-customers, though they charge a fee similar to Bank of America's. This is usually the fastest and cheapest option.
Check-cashing services and payday lenders will cash checks for a fee, typically 1% to 3% of the check amount. These services are faster than banks and have longer hours, but the fee is often higher. Walmart, some grocery stores, and other retailers also cash checks for a fee, usually $3 to $8 for personal checks.
If you have a friend or family member with a Bank of America account, they can deposit the check into their account and withdraw cash for you, though this requires trust and may take a day or two. Some employers will cash paychecks for employees without an account, so if the check is a paycheck, ask your employer's payroll department.
How to find a Bank of America branch near you
Use the Bank of America branch locator on the bank's website or call 1-800-432-1000 to find the nearest branch. Enter your zip code or address to see hours, location, and phone number. Call the branch directly before you go to confirm that they will cash your specific check and to ask about the exact fee.
Some smaller Bank of America branches or those in rural areas may have different policies or may not cash checks for non-customers at all. Calling ahead prevents a wasted trip. If the nearest branch will not cash your check, ask if they can refer you to a branch that will.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a check at a Bank of America ATM without an account?
No. Bank of America ATMs do not cash checks for non-customers. You must go inside a branch and speak to a teller. ATMs are for account holders only.
What if the check is made out to my business, not to me personally?
Bank of America may not cash business checks for non-customers. Call the branch first to ask. If they refuse, take the check to the bank it is drawn on or to a check-cashing service that handles business checks.
Do I need to endorse the check before I go to the branch?
You can endorse it before you go, or the teller can watch you sign the back at the branch. Either way works. Do not sign it until you are ready to cash it, and never sign a blank check.
How long does it take to cash a check at Bank of America?
Usually 5 to 10 minutes if the check has no problems. If the teller needs to verify the check or if the branch is busy, it may take longer. Arrive early in the day or mid-week to avoid long lines.
Can I cash a check if it is torn or damaged?
It depends on the damage. Minor tears or creases may be acceptable. Significant damage, missing account numbers, or illegible text will likely result in refusal. Contact the check issuer and ask for a replacement if the damage is severe.