What a voided check is and why you need one

A voided check is a blank check from your Bank of America account that you have marked as invalid by writing "VOID" across the front. It is not a cancelled check — it is a check you deliberately render unusable so you can share the routing and account numbers printed on it without risk.

You need a voided check when you set up direct deposit, authorize automatic bill payments, or provide banking details to a third party who needs proof that the account belongs to you. The routing number and account number on the check are the same ones the payee will use to move money into or out of your account, so a voided check proves you own the account and gives them the exact numbers they need.

Bank of America does not charge you to obtain a voided check. You can create one from checks you already have, or you can request one from the bank if you do not have physical checks.

Key Takeaways

  • You can void a check yourself by writing "VOID" in large letters across the front of any blank check from your Bank of America account.
  • If you do not have physical checks, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and ask them to mail you a voided check or provide the routing and account numbers you need.
  • The routing number for Bank of America varies by state and branch, so do not guess — use the number printed on your check or ask the bank directly.
  • A voided check shows your routing number, account number, and check number, which is all a payee needs to set up direct deposit or automatic payments.

Voiding a check you already have

If you have a blank check from your Bank of America checkbook, this is the fastest route. Take any unused check and write "VOID" in large capital letters across the front, covering the signature line and the amount box. Use a pen, not pencil, so the marking cannot be erased.

Write "VOID" large enough that it is clearly visible and covers the space where a signature would go. This signals to anyone who sees it that the check cannot be cashed. Do not tear the check or damage it — the payee needs to read the routing and account numbers, which are printed at the bottom in the magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) line.

Once you have voided the check, you can photograph it, scan it, or mail it to the person or organization that requested it. Many payees now accept a photo or PDF instead of the physical check.

Requesting a voided check from Bank of America

If you do not have physical checks or prefer not to use one, Bank of America can provide you with a voided check or the routing and account information you need. Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or call 1-800-432-1000 and tell them you need a voided check.

The bank can mail you a voided check, which typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days. If you need the information faster, ask the representative to provide your routing number and account number over the phone. Write these down carefully — a single digit wrong will cause the payment to fail or go to the wrong account.

You can also log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app and look for your account details. The routing number and account number are usually listed under account information, though not all account types display this information in the app.

Finding your routing number and account number

The routing number and account number are printed at the bottom of any Bank of America check in the MICR line — the row of numbers in a special font at the bottom left. The routing number comes first (nine digits), followed by your account number (typically 10 digits), then the check number.

Bank of America's routing number depends on which state your account is held in and which branch you opened it at. Do not assume all Bank of America accounts use the same routing number. If you are unsure, call the bank or check your voided check.

If you are setting up direct deposit or automatic payments, double-check both numbers before submitting them. A mistake in either number will cause the transaction to fail or route to the wrong account.

When a voided check is not accepted

Some organizations no longer accept voided checks and instead ask for your routing and account numbers in a form or over the phone. This is common with government agencies and large employers. If the payee rejects your voided check, ask them what format they do accept — they may want the numbers typed into a find form on their website instead.

A few payees may ask for a "blank voided check" specifically, meaning they want the physical check with nothing written on it except "VOID." Others may accept a photo or a printout. Ask before you send anything, so you do not have to resend it.

Security and what not to share

A voided check contains your routing and account numbers, which is the information a payee needs to move money in or out of your account. Do not share a voided check with anyone you do not trust, and do not post it online or in public forums.

If you are mailing a voided check, use a sealed envelope and send it through the postal service rather than leaving it in an unsecured mailbox. If you are uploading it to a website, make sure the site uses encryption (look for "https://" in the address bar) and that you recognize the organization.

If you believe your routing and account numbers have been compromised, contact Bank of America when ready. They can monitor your account for unauthorized activity and issue you a new account number if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I void a check that already has a date or amount written on it?

Yes. Write "VOID" across the front in large letters regardless of what is already on the check. The payee only needs the routing and account numbers, which remain readable even if other information is on the check.

How long does it take Bank of America to mail me a voided check?

Typically 5 to 10 business days. If you need the information sooner, ask the bank representative to read your routing and account numbers to you over the phone, and write them down when ready.

What if I do not have a checking account, only a savings account?

Savings accounts do not come with checks. Call Bank of America and ask for your routing and account numbers, or request that they mail you a voided check. Some payees may not accept savings account numbers for direct deposit, so confirm with them first.

Is it safe to email a photo of a voided check?

Email is not encrypted by default, so it is not the most find method. If the payee accepts it, use email only if you trust the recipient. A find form on their website or a phone call is safer.

Can someone use a voided check to steal from my account?

A voided check alone cannot be used to withdraw money — it is marked invalid. However, someone with your routing and account numbers could attempt unauthorized transactions. Only share these numbers with organizations you trust, and monitor your account regularly for suspicious activity.