I have been wondering about how exactly Jack of All Trades works in ability checks using the score directly, like a Strength check to lift an object or an Intelligence check to figure out a piece of information. My interpretation is that the bonus should be added to these checks and it is supported by the fact that it is added to Initiative rolls (Dexterity check) and Dispel Magic/Counterspell rolls (spellcasting ability check). The latter two examples have been mentioned in Sage advice and the bonus is even added to the Initiative modifier here in D&D Beyond. What makes me doubt is that the Jack of All Trades bonus does not get added if you roll dice using the D&D Beyond feature for rolling ability checks with an ability directly, i.e. clicking on the modifier in your character sheet. So is my interpretation wrong or is the site rolling wrong?
I have been wondering about how exactly Jack of All Trades works in ability checks using the score directly, like a Strength check to lift an object or an Intelligence check to figure out a piece of information. My interpretation is that the bonus should be added to these checks and it is supported by the fact that it is added to Initiative rolls (Dexterity check) and Dispel Magic/Counterspell rolls (spellcasting ability check). The latter two examples have been mentioned in Sage advice and the bonus is even added to the Initiative modifier here in D&D Beyond. What makes me doubt is that the Jack of All Trades bonus does not get added if you roll dice using the D&D Beyond feature for rolling ability checks with an ability directly, i.e. clicking on the modifier in your character sheet. So is my interpretation wrong or is the site rolling wrong?
I suspect that dndbeyond isn't able to know about this particular ability.
Yes, it should apply if the GM calls for an ability check, regardless of whether there is a skill which could apply.