What a voided check is and why you need one

A voided check is a check from your account that you have marked as invalid by writing "VOID" across the front. Banks and businesses ask for voided checks to set up direct deposit, automatic bill payments, or ACH transfers because the check carries your routing number and account number in machine-readable form at the bottom. Those numbers are what actually move money, not the check itself — the voided check just proves you own the account and have authorized the use of those numbers.

Bank of America can provide you with a voided check in three ways: you can void one yourself from your checkbook, you can request one from the bank, or you can print one from your online banking portal. Each method takes a different amount of time and requires different steps.

Key Takeaways

  • The fastest way to get a voided check is to void one yourself from your checkbook by writing "VOID" across the front in large letters, then providing it to the business that requested it.
  • If you do not have checks, you can request a voided check from Bank of America by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or using your online banking account.
  • Bank of America's online banking portal lets you print a voided check directly from your computer without waiting for mail delivery.
  • A voided check must show your full routing number and account number clearly at the bottom; if either is missing or illegible, the business will reject it.
  • Voiding a check does not affect your account balance or create any charge — it straightforward marks the check as unusable for payment.

Voiding a check from your own checkbook

If you have a checkbook from Bank of America, the simplest method is to void a check yourself. Take any unused check, write "VOID" in large letters across the front using a pen, and make sure the writing covers the payee line, the amount box, and the signature line. The goal is to make it obvious that the check cannot be cashed or deposited.

Do not use markers, highlighters, or anything that bleeds through to the back. Pen is clearest and most professional. Once you have voided the check, tear it carefully along the perforation so you have the check portion (the part with the routing and account numbers printed at the bottom) separate from the stub. Provide the check portion to whoever requested it — your employer's payroll department, your utility company, or your mortgage servicer.

This method works when ready and costs nothing. The only requirement is that you have at least one unused check in your checkbook.

Requesting a voided check through Bank of America's website or app

Bank of America's online banking portal includes a feature to print a voided check directly from your computer. Log into your Bank of America account on the website or mobile app, navigate to the account you need the check for, and look for an option labeled "Print Checks" or "Order Checks." Some versions of the site call this "Statements & Documents."

Select the option to print a voided check (not to order new checks for delivery). The system will generate a PDF that you can print when ready on your home printer. The PDF includes your routing number, account number, and the word "VOID" printed across it. Print it on regular white paper, and you have a usable voided check within minutes.

This method works if you have online banking set up and access to a printer. It avoids any wait time and does not require a trip to a branch.

Requesting a voided check at a Bank of America branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID and ask a teller for a voided check. Tell them which account you need it for if you have multiple accounts. The teller will either print one on the spot or provide you with one from a template. In most cases you will have the check in hand within five to ten minutes.

Bring your ID — a driver's license or state ID card — because the bank will not provide account information to someone who cannot prove they own the account. If you do not have your ID with you, you can still call ahead to confirm the branch has what you need, but you will have to return with identification to pick it up.

This method works during branch hours, which vary by location. Bank of America branches are typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. Check your local branch's hours on the Bank of America website before you go.

Requesting a voided check by phone

Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and ask to speak with someone who can help you get a voided check. You will need to verify your identity by providing your account number, Social Security number, or other information the bank uses to confirm you own the account.

The representative can mail a voided check to the address on file for your account, but this usually takes five to seven business days. Ask the representative if they can email or fax a voided check instead, which is faster in some cases — though not all Bank of America locations offer this option. If you need the check urgently, this method is slower than visiting a branch or printing one online.

What information must appear on the voided check

The voided check you provide must show three things clearly: your name, your routing number, and your account number. All three appear on the bottom of a real check in a specific order: the routing number (nine digits) comes first on the left, then your account number (usually ten to twelve digits) in the middle, and a check number on the right.

The business requesting the check will scan or read these numbers to set up the transfer. If the routing number or account number is missing, illegible, or cut off, they will reject the check and ask you to provide another one. Make sure whatever you print or void is clear enough to read without squinting, and do not fold or crease it in a way that covers the numbers at the bottom.

Common reasons a voided check gets rejected

A business may reject your voided check if the routing number or account number is not fully visible, if the check is creased or damaged, or if it is a duplicate of one you already submitted. Some businesses also reject checks that are printed on colored paper or that have been photocopied rather than printed from the original source.

If your voided check is rejected, ask the business why. If they say the numbers are unclear, print or void a new one and make sure the bottom is clean and readable. If they say they already have one from you, ask them to confirm they have the correct account number — you may have submitted a check from a different account by mistake. If you are still having trouble, contact Bank of America and ask them to print a fresh voided check for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does voiding a check cost money?

No. Voiding a check from your own checkbook costs nothing. Requesting a voided check from Bank of America also costs nothing, whether you print it online, pick it up at a branch, or have it mailed to you.

Can I use a voided check more than once?

Yes. A voided check is not consumed when you use it — you can provide the same voided check to multiple businesses or organizations. The word "VOID" makes it clear the check cannot be cashed, so there is no risk of it being deposited twice.

What if I do not have a checkbook?

You can print a voided check from your Bank of America online account, request one at a branch, or call customer service to have one mailed to you. You do not need to order a new checkbook.

How long does it take to get a voided check from Bank of America?

If you print one online or pick one up at a branch, you have it when ready. If you request one by mail, it typically arrives in five to seven business days. If you call customer service, they may be able to email or fax one the same day, depending on your location.

Can I void a check that has already been printed with my name on it?

Yes. Any check from your account can be voided, whether it is blank or has been filled out. Write "VOID" across the front and provide it to whoever needs it. The routing and account numbers at the bottom are what matter — the voiding just prevents the check from being cashed.