Cost Of Checks At Bank Of America
Quick answer
- Bank of America’s check costs vary significantly based on the type of check, account package, and whether you order through a branch, online, or by phone.
- Basic personal checks can range from around $10 to $30 or more for a box of 100-200.
- Specialty or custom checks with logos or unique designs will generally cost more.
- Some checking accounts may include a limited number of free checks, or offer discounts on check orders.
- Ordering checks directly through Bank of America is typically more expensive than using third-party check printers.
- Always verify current pricing with Bank of America or your chosen check provider before placing an order.
Who this is for
- Bank of America checking account holders who need to order new checks.
- Individuals looking to understand the potential expenses associated with obtaining physical checks.
- Customers who want to compare the cost of ordering checks directly versus through other vendors.
What to check first (before you act)
Your account type and any included benefits
Some Bank of America checking accounts may come with a certain number of free checks per year or offer discounted pricing on check orders. Understanding your specific account package is the first step to determining your out-of-pocket cost. Check your account agreement or log into your online banking portal to see if any check benefits apply to you.
Your specific check needs
Are you looking for basic, unlined checks, or do you need specialty checks with your business logo, a specific design, or security features? The complexity and design of your checks will directly impact the price. Basic, standard checks are the most economical option.
Your ordering method
Bank of America offers several ways to order checks: online, by phone, or in a branch. Each method might have slightly different pricing structures or associated fees. Third-party check printers also offer an alternative, which can sometimes be more cost-effective but may require more effort to ensure compatibility and quality.
Step-by-step (simple workflow)
1. Identify your account type: Log in to your Bank of America online banking or review your account statements.
- What “good” looks like: You clearly know the name of your checking account (e.g., “Advantage Plus Banking,” “Preferred Rewards”).
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming all accounts are the same. Avoid this by specifically looking up your account tier and its associated benefits.
2. Check for included check benefits: Look for mentions of free checks, discounts, or ordering allowances within your account’s terms and conditions.
- What “good” looks like: You’ve found information stating you get a certain number of free checks or a discount code.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Missing a limited-time offer or a specific condition for the benefit. Avoid this by reading the fine print carefully or calling customer service.
3. Determine the type of checks you need: Decide if you require standard personal checks, business checks, or custom-designed checks.
- What “good” looks like: You have a clear idea of whether you need basic or specialized checks.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Ordering the wrong type of check, leading to unnecessary costs or reordering. Avoid this by visualizing how you’ll use the checks.
4. Visit the Bank of America online ordering portal: Navigate to the official Bank of America website and find the section for ordering checks.
- What “good” looks like: You are on the secure Bank of America check ordering page.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Landing on a third-party site that looks official but isn’t. Avoid this by ensuring the URL is correct and starting from your logged-in banking session.
5. Select your check design and quantity: Browse the available options and choose the style and number of checks you wish to order.
- What “good” looks like: You’ve selected a design and quantity that meets your needs and budget.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Choosing a more expensive design without realizing it. Avoid this by comparing prices of different designs before committing.
6. Enter your account and shipping information: Provide the necessary details for processing your order and delivery.
- What “good” looks like: All required fields are accurately filled out.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Typographical errors in your account number or shipping address. Avoid this by double-checking all entries before submission.
7. Review the total cost: Before finalizing, carefully examine the subtotal, any applicable taxes, shipping fees, and discounts.
- What “good” looks like: You understand the final price and it aligns with your expectations.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Overlooking hidden fees or shipping charges. Avoid this by scrutinizing every line item on the order summary.
8. Place your order: Confirm all details and submit your check order.
- What “good” looks like: You receive an order confirmation number.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Accidental duplicate orders. Avoid this by ensuring you only click the submit button once.
9. Consider third-party vendors (optional comparison): If Bank of America’s price seems high, visit reputable third-party check printing websites to compare costs.
- What “good” looks like: You have a clear price comparison from another vendor.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Ordering from an unreputable vendor. Avoid this by sticking to well-known, secure third-party printers with good reviews.
10. Wait for delivery: Allow the specified time for your checks to be printed and mailed to you.
- What “good” looks like: Your checks arrive within the estimated delivery window.
- Common mistake and how to avoid it: Running out of checks before the new ones arrive. Avoid this by ordering well in advance of needing them.
Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)
| Mistake | What it causes | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Not checking account benefits | Paying full price for checks when free or discounted ones are available. | Always review your account details or call customer service to confirm any check-related benefits before ordering. |
| Ordering specialty checks unnecessarily | Higher costs for checks that serve the same basic function as standard ones. | Stick to basic check designs unless a specific feature (like a business logo) is essential for your needs. |
| Using the wrong ordering method | Potentially paying more than necessary due to different pricing structures. | Compare prices for online, phone, and in-branch ordering, and consider reputable third-party vendors. |
| Incorrectly entering account numbers | Order rejection, delays, or checks printed with the wrong account information. | Double-check your routing and account numbers on your current checks or bank statements before submitting the order. |
| Not ordering enough checks | Running out of checks, leading to missed payments or reliance on more expensive methods. | Order a larger quantity than you think you need, especially if you use checks frequently, to avoid frequent reordering fees. |
| Ignoring delivery times | Disruptions in bill payment and cash flow management. | Factor in printing and shipping times when ordering; order at least 2-3 weeks before you anticipate needing them. |
| Not comparing third-party prices | Overpaying for checks by sticking solely with the bank’s direct offering. | Obtain quotes from at least one reputable third-party check printer to see if they offer significant savings. |
| Ordering from unverified sources | Risk of identity theft, poor quality checks, or non-delivery of checks. | Only use the official Bank of America ordering portal or well-established, reputable third-party check printers. |
| Forgetting to reorder | Running out of checks unexpectedly, causing financial inconvenience. | Set a reminder or calendar notification to reorder checks when your supply reaches a certain low point (e.g., 1/4 box left). |
Decision rules (simple if/then)
- If your checking account offers free checks, then use that benefit first because it’s the most cost-effective option.
- If you need checks for business purposes and require a logo, then expect to pay more because custom designs add to the cost.
- If you only use checks occasionally for infrequent payments, then ordering a smaller quantity of basic checks is likely sufficient because it minimizes upfront cost.
- If you find Bank of America’s direct ordering prices to be high, then compare quotes from reputable third-party check printers because they often offer more competitive pricing.
- If you prioritize convenience and security, then ordering directly through your Bank of America online portal is a good choice because it’s a trusted and streamlined process.
- If you are concerned about potential errors, then double-checking your account and routing numbers against a current check or your bank statement is crucial because mistakes can lead to significant problems.
- If you have a special design in mind that Bank of America doesn’t offer, then explore third-party vendors because they often have a wider selection of designs.
- If you need checks immediately, then ordering through the bank might be faster than some third-party options, but check estimated delivery times for both.
- If you are ordering a large quantity of checks, then the per-check cost may decrease, so consider if a larger order is more economical in the long run.
- If you have a specific deadline for needing checks, then factor in both printing and shipping times, and consider expedited shipping if necessary, because delays can cause issues.
FAQ
How much do basic personal checks cost at Bank of America?
The cost for a box of basic personal checks can vary, but generally falls in the range of $10 to $30 or more for 100-200 checks, depending on the account package and ordering method.
Are there ways to get free checks from Bank of America?
Some Bank of America checking accounts, particularly higher-tier or relationship-based accounts, may include a limited number of free checks per year. You should check your specific account benefits.
Is it cheaper to order checks directly from Bank of America or a third-party vendor?
Often, reputable third-party check printers can offer more competitive pricing than ordering directly through the bank. It’s advisable to compare prices.
What information do I need to order checks from Bank of America?
You will typically need your Bank of America checking account number, your bank’s routing number, and your current address for shipping.
Can I order custom checks with my own design at Bank of America?
Bank of America offers various designs, and some may allow for customization like adding a logo. However, highly custom designs might be more readily available and potentially more affordable through specialized third-party printers.
How long does it take to receive checks ordered from Bank of America?
Standard processing and shipping times can range from 7 to 14 business days, but this can vary. Always check the estimated delivery time when placing your order.
What happens if I order checks with the wrong account number?
If you enter an incorrect account number, the order may be rejected, or worse, checks could be printed with the wrong information, rendering them unusable and potentially causing financial issues.
What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)
- Specific pricing for international customers or non-US dollar accounts.
- Detailed comparisons of every third-party check printer’s offerings and reliability.
- Guidance on using digital payment methods as alternatives to checks.
Next steps could include exploring different checking account options, learning about electronic bill payment services, or researching mobile check deposit features.