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How To Write A Check For Bank Of America

ByWallstreet Observer

Quick Answer

  • Ensure you have sufficient funds in your Bank of America account before writing a check.
  • Use a pen with dark ink (blue or black) to fill out the check.
  • Accurately record the date, payee’s name, the written dollar amount, and the numerical dollar amount.
  • Sign the check in the designated signature line.
  • Keep a record of the check’s details in your check register or banking app.
  • Verify the payee’s name and account details for accuracy to prevent bounced checks or fraud.

Who This Is For

  • Bank of America customers who need to make payments via check.
  • Individuals who may be new to writing checks or need a refresher on the process.
  • Anyone looking to ensure their checks are filled out correctly to avoid common errors.

What to Check First (Before You Act)

Your Bank of America Account Balance:

Before writing any check, it’s crucial to know the available balance in the checking account the check will be drawn from. Overdrawing your account can lead to significant fees from Bank of America and potential issues with the payee. Check your balance online through your Bank of America account, via their mobile app, or by calling customer service.

Your Checkbook or Online Bill Pay System:

Confirm you have physical checks available. If you don’t, you’ll need to order more from Bank of America or your check printer. Alternatively, consider if Bank of America’s online bill pay service can fulfill your payment needs, which can often be more efficient and secure.

The Payee’s Information:

You need the exact legal name of the person or organization you are paying. Double-check the spelling. If you are paying a business, ensure you have the correct business name. Incorrect payee information can cause the check to be rejected or delayed.

The Amount of the Payment:

Be absolutely certain of the exact amount you need to pay. This includes both the numerical amount (e.g., $100.50) and the written amount (e.g., One Hundred and 50/100 Dollars). Discrepancies between these two can lead to the check being invalidated.

Step-by-Step: How to Write a Check for Bank of America

1. Locate a Blank Check:

  • What to do: Find an unused check from your Bank of America checkbook.
  • What “good” looks like: You have a clean, unwritten check with your Bank of America account information pre-printed on it.
  • Common mistake: Using an old or damaged check.
  • How to avoid it: Inspect the check for any tears, stains, or previous writing. Discard any compromised checks.

2. Fill in the Date:

  • What to do: In the top right corner, write the current date.
  • What “good” looks like: The date is clear and legible, usually in a Month/Day/Year format (e.g., 10/26/2023).
  • Common mistake: Writing the wrong date, especially if you intend to post-date the check.
  • How to avoid it: Always verify the current date before writing it. Bank of America, like most banks, may process post-dated checks immediately, so it’s best practice to write the correct date.

3. Write the Payee’s Name:

  • What to do: On the line that says “Pay to the Order of,” write the full legal name of the person or company you are paying.
  • What “good” looks like: The payee’s name is spelled correctly and matches their identification or the company’s official name.
  • Common mistake: Misspelling the payee’s name or writing an informal name.
  • How to avoid it: Confirm the exact spelling with the payee if you are unsure.

4. Write the Numerical Amount:

  • What to do: In the box to the right of the payee line, write the payment amount numerically (e.g., 50.00).
  • What “good” looks like: The number is clear, and the decimal point clearly separates dollars from cents. Use a trailing zero for whole dollar amounts (e.g., 100.00).
  • Common mistake: Leaving too much space between numbers, allowing for alteration.
  • How to avoid it: Write the numbers close together, starting from the left side of the box.

5. Write the Written Amount:

  • What to do: On the long line below the payee’s name, write the amount in words. Write out the dollar amount, and then write the cents as a fraction over 100 (e.g., Fifty and 00/100).
  • What “good” looks like: The written amount accurately reflects the numerical amount, with “and” separating dollars from cents, and cents written as a fraction. Draw a line from the end of the written amount to the “Dollars” line to prevent additions.
  • Common mistake: Discrepancies between the numerical and written amounts.
  • How to avoid it: Carefully transcribe the numerical amount into words. If there’s a conflict, the written amount typically governs.

6. Add a Memo (Optional but Recommended):

  • What to do: In the bottom left corner, in the “Memo” line, briefly note the purpose of the payment (e.g., “Rent – October,” “Invoice #1234”).
  • What “good” looks like: A clear, concise note that helps you and the payee identify the transaction later.
  • Common mistake: Leaving the memo blank.
  • How to avoid it: Always use the memo line for better record-keeping.

7. Sign the Check:

  • What to do: Sign your name on the signature line in the bottom right corner, exactly as your signature appears on file with Bank of America.
  • What “good” looks like: A legible signature that matches your bank’s records.
  • Common mistake: Forgetting to sign the check or signing with a different signature.
  • How to avoid it: Always sign the check before handing it over. Ensure your signature is consistent.

8. Record the Transaction:

  • What to do: Immediately record the check number, date, payee, and amount in your check register or your Bank of America online banking or budgeting app.
  • What “good” looks like: Your records are up-to-date, reflecting all cleared and pending transactions.
  • Common mistake: Forgetting to record the check.
  • How to avoid it: Make it a habit to record checks as soon as you write them.

Common Mistakes (and What Happens If You Ignore Them)

| Mistake | What it Causes | Fix

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