Bank of America provides free checks to most 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 checking account. After that, the bank covers the cost of standard checks for most account holders — you pay nothing out of pocket. The catch: you have to order them through Bank of America's official channels, and the timeline matters if you need them quickly.

If you are an existing customer and your checks have run out, you can order more at no cost through your online banking portal, the mobile app, or by calling the bank directly. The free option takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive. If you need checks faster, Bank of America offers expedited shipping, but that service costs money.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America provides free standard checks to checking account holders; the first order is free when you open the account, and replacements are free thereafter.
  • You order free checks through your online banking account, the mobile app, or by phone at 1-800-432-1000; do not order through third-party check printing websites.
  • Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days; expedited options cost extra and are not necessary unless you have an when ready need.
  • Some premium account tiers, like Preferred Rewards, may include additional perks, but the base checking account always includes free checks.

Ordering checks through your online banking account

Log into your Bank of America online banking portal using your username and password. Once you are logged in, look for the "Manage Accounts" or "Account Services" section — the exact label varies slightly depending on your account setup. From there, select the checking account you want to order checks for.

Find the option labeled "Order Checks" or "Reorder Checks." Bank of America will show you a preview of what your checks will look like, including your name, account number, and routing number. You can choose from a few standard designs, but the options are limited compared to third-party printers. Confirm your mailing address, review the order, and submit. You will receive a confirmation email with an order number.

This method is free and takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit the order. Bank of America does not charge a processing fee or a shipping fee for standard delivery.

Ordering checks through the mobile app

Open the Bank of America mobile app and sign in. Tap "Accounts" at the bottom of the screen, then select the checking account you need checks for. Scroll down until you see "Order Checks" or a similar option — it may be under "Services" or "Account Services" depending on your app version.

The process mirrors the online portal: you will see a preview of your check design, confirm your address, and submit the order. The app will send you a confirmation. Delivery time is the same as the online method — 7 to 10 business days.

Ordering checks by phone

Call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number and a form of identification ready. A representative will walk you through the check order process over the phone. They will confirm your address, ask which design you prefer (if options are available), and process the order when ready.

Phone orders are also free and arrive in 7 to 10 business days. This method is useful if you are not comfortable with online banking or if you have questions about your order before submitting it.

Why third-party check printers are not the free option

You may see advertisements for third-party check printing services that claim to offer "free" checks. These companies — such as Costco Checks, Deluxe, or other independent printers — do charge money, even if the first order appears discounted. Bank of America does not partner with these services to provide free checks to its customers.

Ordering checks from a third party works technically — your checks will function normally at any bank — but you are paying for something Bank of America already covers. Stick with Bank of America's own ordering system to avoid unnecessary charges.

What happens if you need checks faster than 7 to 10 days

Bank of America offers expedited shipping options for checks, but these cost money. Expedited delivery typically arrives in 3 to 5 business days and carries a fee that varies based on how fast you need them. The bank will show you the cost before you confirm the order.

If you need a check when ready — for example, to pay rent or a bill today — expedited shipping will not solve the problem because even the fastest option takes several days. In that case, consider asking your bank for a cashier's check, which you can obtain in person at a branch the same day. Cashier's checks are not free, but they are faster than any mailed check order.

Replacing lost, stolen, or damaged checks

If your checks were lost, stolen, or damaged, you can still order a replacement set for free using the same methods above. Bank of America will not charge you for the replacement. However, if you believe checks were used fraudulently, contact the bank when ready at 1-800-432-1000 to report the issue and freeze your account if necessary.

When you report lost or stolen checks, the bank may ask you to file a claim or provide documentation. Keep your confirmation number from the original order and any evidence of the loss. The replacement checks will arrive in the standard 7 to 10 business days unless you pay for expedited shipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay for checks if I have a Bank of America savings account instead of checking?

Checks are only issued on checking accounts, not savings accounts. If you have a savings account, you cannot order checks. You would need to transfer money to a checking account or open one if you do not already have one.

What if my address changes after I order checks?

If your address changes before the checks arrive, contact Bank of America when ready. Call 1-800-432-1000 and ask to update your mailing address on the pending order. The bank may be able to redirect the shipment or cancel and reissue the order to your new address. If the checks arrive at your old address, you can request a replacement order to be sent to your new address.

Can I order checks with a different design or custom printing?

Bank of America offers a limited selection of standard check designs through its ordering system. If you want custom designs, logos, or special printing, you will need to use a third-party check printer, which will cost money. The free checks from Bank of America come in standard formats only.

How many checks can I order for free at one time?

Bank of America does not publicly limit the number of checks you can order in a single order. You can typically order multiple boxes in one transaction. If you need an unusually large quantity, call the bank to confirm before ordering.

What if I never received my free checks?

If your checks did not arrive within 10 business days, contact Bank of America with your order confirmation number. The bank will investigate the shipment and either resend the checks or issue a replacement order. Keep your confirmation email until the checks arrive.