Yes, you can change your Bank of America checking account type, and the process takes a few minutes

Bank of America lets you switch between its checking account types without closing your account or moving your money. The change happens in your online banking portal or at a branch, and there is no fee to make the switch. You keep your same account number, routing number, and all your existing transactions — only the account features and monthly maintenance rules change.

The most common reason to switch is to avoid a monthly maintenance fee. Bank of America's basic checking account (called Checking) charges a $12 monthly fee unless you meet one of several conditions, such as keeping a $1,500 minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. If you cannot meet those conditions, switching to SafePass Checking removes the monthly fee entirely, though it comes with fewer features.

Key Takeaways

  • You can switch between Bank of America checking types online, by phone, or in person at a branch without closing your account.
  • Your account number and routing number stay the same when you switch, so you do not need to update direct deposit or automatic payments.
  • Bank of America offers three main checking types: Checking (with a monthly fee unless you meet conditions), SafePass Checking (no monthly fee, limited features), and Advantage Banking (designed for frequent transactions).
  • The switch takes effect when ready, though it may take one business day to see the change reflected in your online banking.

The three main Bank of America checking account types

Checking is the standard account. It includes a debit card, online banking, bill pay, and the ability to write checks. The $12 monthly maintenance fee goes away if you maintain a $1,500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit of any amount, or keep a linked savings account with a $500 minimum balance. Many people use this account because it offers the full range of features.

SafePass Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. It includes a debit card, online banking, and bill pay, but does not allow you to write checks. This account is designed for people who rarely use checks and want to avoid fees entirely. The tradeoff is fewer features, not lower security.

Advantage Banking is designed for people who make many transactions per month. It charges a monthly fee (the amount varies by state) but includes unlimited debit card transactions and higher ATM withdrawal limits. Most people do not need this account unless they are running a small business or managing money for others.

How to switch your account type online

Log into your Bank of America online banking account and go to the Settings section, usually found in the upper right corner or in a menu labeled "Profile" or "Account Settings." Look for an option that says "Change Account Type" or "Manage Accounts." Click on the checking account you want to change.

Bank of America will show you the account types available to you and explain the features and fees for each one. Select the account type you want to switch to and confirm your choice. The change usually takes effect when ready, though it may take until the next business day to appear in your online banking view.

If you do not see a "Change Account Type" option in your online banking, your account may have restrictions that prevent switching online. In that case, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person.

Switching your account type by phone or in person

Call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to change your checking account type. Have your account number ready. The representative will explain the features and fees of each account type available to you, answer any questions, and process the change over the phone. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

You can also visit any Bank of America branch in person. Bring your debit card or a government-issued ID. A banker will review the account types with you, explain which one fits your banking habits, and make the switch while you wait. This is a good option if you have questions about which account type makes sense for your situation.

What stays the same when you switch

Your account number and routing number do not change when you switch account types. This means you do not need to update direct deposit with your employer, change automatic bill payments, or notify anyone who sends you money. All your existing transactions, balance history, and linked accounts stay exactly as they are.

Your debit card remains active and usable during and after the switch. If your new account type does not support checks (like SafePass Checking), any checks you have already written will still clear normally. You straightforward will not be able to order new checks once the switch is complete.

When you might want to switch accounts

Switch to SafePass Checking if you are paying the $12 monthly fee on your standard Checking account and you do not write checks. This eliminates the fee without affecting your daily banking. You keep your debit card, online banking, and bill pay — the only thing you lose is the ability to write checks.

Switch to Advantage Banking if you make many debit card transactions each month and want higher ATM withdrawal limits. This account is rarely the right choice for personal banking, but it can make sense if you manage money for a business or organization.

Switch back to standard Checking if you set up direct deposit or reached the minimum balance requirement. Once you meet one of the fee-waiver conditions, the $12 monthly fee stops, and you regain the ability to write checks if you switched to SafePass.

What to do if you cannot switch online

Some accounts have restrictions that prevent online switching — for example, if your account is linked to a business account or if you have a hold on your account. Bank of America will tell you this when you try to switch online, and it will direct you to call or visit a branch.

Call 1-800-432-1000 and explain that you tried to switch online but could not. The representative can usually process the switch by phone and will explain any restrictions on your account. If there is a genuine block preventing the switch, the representative will tell you what needs to happen first — for example, resolving a dispute or removing a hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will switching account types affect my credit score?

No. Switching between Bank of America checking account types does not affect your credit score. Bank of America does not report checking account changes to credit bureaus, and the switch is not a new account — it is a change to your existing account.

Do I lose my debit card when I switch?

No. Your debit card stays active and usable. If you switch to SafePass Checking, you keep the same debit card. You will not receive a new card unless your current one is damaged or expired.

Can I switch back to my old account type if I change my mind?

Yes. You can switch between account types as many times as you want. There is no fee or penalty for switching back. If you switch to SafePass and later decide you need to write checks, you can switch back to standard Checking whenever you want.

What happens to checks I already ordered if I switch to SafePass Checking?

Any checks you have already ordered will still arrive and will still be usable. Once you switch to SafePass, you straightforward cannot order new checks. If you switch back to standard Checking later, you can order checks again.

Does the switch happen when ready?

The switch takes effect right away, though it may take until the next business day to show up in your online banking. Your account number and routing number do not change, so direct deposits and automatic payments continue without interruption.