Bank of America's Check Ordering Costs

Bank of America charges for checks when you order them, but the cost depends on the style and quantity you choose. A standard box of 100 checks typically costs between $15 and $30, though the exact price varies based on the design you select. Fancier styles—personalized checks with images, colors, or special layouts—cost more, sometimes $25 to $50 per box.

The bank does not charge a monthly fee just for having the ability to write checks. You pay only when you actually order new checks. If you already have checks and use them, there is no per-check fee from Bank of America itself.

Bank of America also offers a service called CheckSmart, which lets you order checks online through a third-party vendor. These checks are sometimes cheaper than ordering directly from the bank—sometimes $10 to $20 per box—but delivery takes longer, usually 7 to 10 business days instead of 3 to 5.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America charges $15 to $30 for a standard box of 100 checks, depending on the design you choose.
  • Personalized or specialty checks cost more, sometimes $25 to $50 per box.
  • You pay only when you order checks; there is no monthly fee for having a checking account that accepts checks.
  • CheckSmart, Bank of America's third-party ordering service, may cost less but takes longer to arrive.
  • Many checking accounts come with a small number of free checks when you open the account.

When Bank of America Gives You Free Checks

When you open a new checking account at Bank of America, the bank typically includes a small supply of free checks—usually one box of 25 checks. This covers basic needs for a few weeks or months, depending on how often you write checks.

After that initial box runs out, you pay for any additional checks you order. The free checks are a one-time offer tied to opening the account, not an ongoing benefit.

How to Order Checks from Bank of America

You can order checks in three ways: through your online banking portal, by phone, or in person at a branch. The online method is fastest—you log into your account, navigate to the checks section, choose your style, and place the order in a few minutes. Delivery usually takes 3 to 5 business days.

Ordering by phone means calling Bank of America's customer service line and speaking to a representative. They will ask which account the checks are for, what style you want, and where to send them. This method takes the same amount of time as online ordering.

Ordering in person at a branch lets you see sample check designs before you commit, but it is slower—you fill out a form and the bank processes it, which can take a week or more.

Cheaper Alternatives to Bank of America Checks

If you want to avoid Bank of America's check prices entirely, you can order checks from third-party vendors that are not affiliated with the bank. Companies like Deluxe, Costco, and Walmart all sell checks that work in any bank account. These checks are often cheaper—sometimes $5 to $15 per box—and come in more design options.

The catch is that you need your account number and routing number to order from a third party, and you have to make sure the checks are printed correctly. Bank of America checks are may provide to work because the bank prints them itself. Third-party checks are just as legal and functional, but you bear the responsibility if something goes wrong with the order.

Costco members can order checks through Costco's website or in-store, often at a significant discount compared to bank prices. Walmart offers similar pricing through its website. Both require you to provide your account details, but the process is straightforward.

Why Banks Charge for Checks at All

Check printing is not free. The bank has to pay a vendor to design, print, and ship the checks to you. That cost gets passed to the customer. Unlike a debit card, which the bank can reuse and reissue, checks are single-use items that have to be manufactured for each customer.

The fee also reflects the fact that fewer people use checks now than they did 20 years ago. Younger customers often never order checks at all, preferring digital payments. For the customers who do order them, the bank spreads the cost of the printing service across fewer orders, which keeps the per-box price relatively high.

Digital Alternatives to Writing Checks

If you are trying to avoid check fees altogether, Bank of America offers other ways to send money. Zelle, which is built into the bank's mobile app and website, lets you send money to another person's bank account in minutes, with no fee. You need the recipient's email address or phone number.

Bank of America also offers bill pay through its online banking portal. You can pay bills directly from your account without writing a check. The bank sends the payment on your behalf, either electronically or by mailing a check if the payee does not accept electronic payments. Bill pay is usually free for checking account holders.

These digital methods are faster than checks, leave a digital record, and cost nothing. They work for most payments—utilities, credit cards, rent, insurance. The main exception is when someone specifically asks for a check or when you need to give cash to someone in person.

What Happens If You Run Out of Checks

If you run out of checks and need one urgently, you have a few options. You can visit a Bank of America branch and ask if they have blank counter checks available—temporary checks that the bank can print on the spot. Not all branches keep these, and they may charge a small fee, but it solves an immediate problem.

You can also ask the person or business you need to pay whether they accept a different payment method. Most utilities, landlords, and service providers now accept electronic transfers, credit cards, or online bill pay. Explaining that you are waiting for checks to arrive often buys you a few extra days.

If you absolutely need a check within 24 hours, some third-party vendors offer expedited printing and shipping, but the cost is high—sometimes $30 to $50 for a small order. This is rarely worth it unless the situation is truly urgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bank of America charge a monthly fee for checks?

No. Bank of America charges only when you order checks, not for having a checking account that accepts them. You pay a one-time fee per box of checks you order.

Can I use checks from another bank in my Bank of America account?

No. Checks must be printed with your specific Bank of America account number and routing number. Checks from another bank will not work in your account.

How long does it take to get checks after I order them?

Standard delivery through Bank of America takes 3 to 5 business days. CheckSmart, the third-party option, takes 7 to 10 business days. Expedited shipping is sometimes available for an extra fee.

Are checks from Costco or Walmart really cheaper than Bank of America?

Yes, usually. Third-party vendors often charge $5 to $15 per box compared to Bank of America's $15 to $30. The trade-off is that you are responsible for making sure the order is correct, whereas Bank of America guarantees their checks will work.

What if I never use checks—do I still need to order them?

No. If you do not write checks, you do not need to order them. Many people use only digital payments and never order checks after their initial free box runs out.