Bank of America will cash checks for non-customers, but with limits and fees

Bank of America cashes checks for people who do not have an account with them, but the terms depend on the check type and the amount. Non-customers can cash personal checks, payroll checks, and government checks at any Bank of America branch, though you will pay a fee and the teller may ask for identification. The fee for non-customers is typically $6 to $10 per check, though this varies by location and check amount. Some branches may refuse to cash very large checks or checks they cannot verify quickly.

If you have a Bank of America account, check cashing is free and faster. The bank processes checks at the teller window, through mobile deposit, or at an ATM depending on the check type and your account features. Without an account, your only option is to visit a branch in person during business hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Non-customers pay a fee (usually $6 to $10) to cash checks at Bank of America branches, while account holders cash checks for free.
  • You must bring a valid government-issued ID to cash a check as a non-customer, and the teller may contact the check issuer to verify funds.
  • Bank of America branches are not required to cash checks for non-customers, so some may decline based on the check amount or type.
  • Personal checks, payroll checks, and government checks are the most commonly cashed types; cashier's checks and traveler's checks may have different rules.

What identification and information you need to bring

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will record your ID number and may ask for your address or phone number. If the check is made out to someone other than you, the teller will likely refuse to cash it, even if that person signs the back.

Have the check itself and know who issued it. The teller may call the issuer's bank to verify that the account has enough money to cover the check. This verification can take several minutes, so plan for a longer wait than you would have if you had an account.

Fees and limits that apply to non-customers

The standard non-customer check-cashing fee at Bank of America is $6 for checks under $5,000 and $10 for checks $5,000 and above, though individual branches may set different amounts. Some branches may also refuse to cash checks over a certain amount — often $10,000 or higher — without manager approval or additional verification.

These fees are set by the branch, not by Bank of America's national policy, so calling ahead to confirm the exact fee at your nearest location is worth the time. The fee is deducted from the check amount, so if you cash a $500 check, you receive $494 (minus the $6 fee).

When Bank of America branches may refuse to cash your check

A Bank of America teller can decline to cash a check if they cannot verify funds quickly, if the check is post-dated (dated in the future), if it is damaged or illegible, or if the amount is unusually large for that branch. Checks with alterations, erasures, or unclear signatures are also common reasons for refusal.

If a branch refuses, you can try another Bank of America location, but you may face the same issue. Your other options are to deposit the check into your own bank account (if you have one), take it to the bank that issued the check, or use a check-cashing service or payday lender — though those typically charge higher fees.

How to find a Bank of America branch near you

Use the Bank of America branch locator on their website or search "Bank of America near me" in Google Maps. The locator shows hours, which branches offer Saturday service, and whether a location has a drive-through. Call the branch before you go to confirm they will cash your specific check type and to ask about their current non-customer fee.

Not all Bank of America locations are full-service branches — some are smaller kiosks or in-store locations with limited services. A full-service branch is more likely to cash checks for non-customers without hesitation.

Alternatives if Bank of America will not cash your check

If the branch refuses or the fee is too high, take the check to the bank that issued it. If your paycheck is from your employer's bank, that bank will cash it for free or for a lower fee than Bank of America charges. Government checks (tax refunds, Social Security) can be cashed at most banks, including credit unions, often for free or a small fee.

Check-cashing stores and payday lenders will also cash checks, but they typically charge 2 to 5 percent of the check amount — much higher than Bank of America's flat fee. If you have a bank account elsewhere, mobile deposit or ATM deposit is the cheapest option and requires no visit to a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Bank of America account to cash a check there?

No. Non-customers can cash checks at any Bank of America branch, but you will pay a fee and must bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Account holders cash checks for free.

What if the check is made out to someone else?

Bank of America will not cash a check made out to another person, even if they sign the back. The check must be made out to you or have your name on it as a co-payee.

Can I cash a check at a Bank of America ATM without an account?

No. ATM check deposit is only for account holders. Non-customers must go inside a branch and speak to a teller.

How long does it take to cash a check at Bank of America as a non-customer?

It typically takes 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how quickly the teller can verify funds with the issuing bank. Bring your ID and be prepared to wait longer than an account holder would.

What if my check is post-dated?

Bank of America will not cash a post-dated check (one dated in the future). You must wait until the date on the check arrives, then return to the branch.