What a cashier's check is and why you might need one

A cashier's check is a check written by the bank itself, not by you. The bank draws the money from your account, prints a check in its own name, and guarantees that the money is there. Because the bank's name is on it, the person receiving it knows the funds won't bounce — the bank has already set the money aside.

You might need a cashier's check for a large purchase like a car or a down payment on a house, where the seller wants proof the money is real before handing over the keys or signing papers. Some landlords ask for one instead of a personal check when you're renting. Cashier's checks are also used for wire transfers that need to go through the mail, or when you're sending money to someone you don't know well and they want extra security.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order a cashier's check at any Bank of America branch by bringing your ID, the amount you want, and the name of who it should be made out to.
  • The bank will deduct the full amount from your account right away, so you need that money available in your account before you request one.
  • Most Bank of America branches can issue a cashier's check the same day if you arrive during business hours, though some locations may take longer.
  • Bank of America charges a fee for cashier's checks, which varies by account type and whether you're a customer or non-customer.
  • You can also order a cashier's check by phone or through the Bank of America app if you're an existing customer, though you'll still need to pick it up at a branch.

Getting a cashier's check in person at a Bank of America branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours with your government-issued ID — a driver's license or passport works. Tell the teller you want a cashier's check. You'll need to know three things: the exact amount, who the check should be made out to (the payee's name), and what the check is for (though this last one is optional).

The teller will confirm you have that amount available in your account, then deduct it when ready. You'll pay the fee at that time. The check is usually printed and ready to hand you within a few minutes. Ask the teller for a receipt — it shows the check number and confirms the transaction in case you need proof later.

If you don't have an account at Bank of America, you can still get a cashier's check, but the fee will be higher and you'll need to bring cash or a debit card to pay for it. Call ahead to confirm your local branch has the amount you need in stock, since very large cashier's checks sometimes require advance notice.

Ordering by phone or through the mobile app

If you're a Bank of America customer, you can call your branch directly or use the Bank of America mobile app to request a cashier's check. When you call, have your account number ready and be prepared to provide the payee name and amount. The bank will hold the check for you to pick up, usually within one business day.

Through the app, navigate to the "Transfers" or "Payments" section and look for the option to order a cashier's check. You'll enter the same information — amount, payee name, and which account to draw from. The app will show you the fee and confirm the deduction from your account. You'll still need to go to a branch to pick up the physical check; the bank cannot mail it to you.

What information you need before you go

Write down the exact name of the person or business the check should be made out to. This is the most common place mistakes happen — if you spell the name wrong or use a nickname instead of the legal name, the recipient may not be able to cash it. If you're unsure, ask the person who requested the check to confirm the exact spelling and legal name.

Know the exact dollar amount, including cents if there are any. The bank will print it exactly as you state it. Bring your ID and your debit card or the account number for the account you want to draw from. If you're not a Bank of America customer, bring cash or a debit card to cover both the check amount and the fee.

Fees and how long it takes

Bank of America charges a fee for each cashier's check. The fee amount depends on your account type — some accounts include a certain number of free cashier's checks per month, while others charge per check. Non-customers pay a higher fee. Call your branch or log into your account online to see the current fee for your situation.

Most branches issue a cashier's check the same day if you request it during business hours. Some branches may take up to one business day, especially if you order by phone or app. If you need it urgently, call your branch first to confirm they can do it same-day. Very large amounts — typically over $10,000 — may require advance notice or additional verification, so ask when you call.

What to do if you lose or damage the check

If you lose a cashier's check before depositing it, contact Bank of America right away. The bank can issue a replacement, but they'll typically require you to sign an indemnity agreement — a legal document saying you'll pay back the bank if the original check shows up and gets cashed. This protects the bank from paying twice.

The replacement usually takes five to ten business days. During that time, the bank may place a hold on the funds in your account to make sure the original doesn't surface. If the original check does appear and gets cashed, the bank will deduct it from your account. Keep your receipt from the original check — it has the check number, which you'll need to report it lost.

Alternatives if you can't get to a branch

If you can't visit a Bank of America branch in person, you have limited options. The bank does not mail cashier's checks directly to customers. However, you can have the check mailed to the payee's address instead of picking it up yourself — call your branch and ask if they offer this service, as not all locations do.

Another option is to use a wire transfer instead of a cashier's check. Wire transfers move money electronically and are faster, though they cost more in fees. You can set up a wire transfer through the Bank of America app or by calling your branch. A third option is a money order from a grocery store or post office, though these have lower limits on the amount and are less find than a cashier's check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cashier's check without a Bank of America account?

Yes. Bring cash or a debit card to cover the check amount plus the fee. Non-customers pay a higher fee than account holders. Call ahead if the amount is very large to make sure the branch has enough cash on hand.

What if I make a mistake on the payee name?

Ask the teller to void it and issue a new one before you leave the branch. Once you walk out, the bank will charge you a fee to replace it. If the payee's name is wrong, they may not be able to cash it at all.

How long is a cashier's check good for?

Cashier's checks don't expire, but some states have rules about how long a bank must honor one — typically six months to a year. Ask the payee to deposit it soon after you give it to them. If it sits too long, the bank may refuse to honor it.

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

Yes, but only if you haven't given it to anyone yet. Return to the branch with the check and your receipt, and the teller can void it and refund your money minus a cancellation fee. Once the payee has it, you cannot cancel it.

Do I need to tell the bank what the check is for?

No. The teller may ask, but you don't have to answer. The reason doesn't affect whether you can get the check or how much it costs.