Bank of America offers free online banking to most account holders

Yes. If you have a Bank of America checking or savings account, you can use their website and mobile app to check balances, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks at no extra charge. This is included with your account — you do not pay a separate fee to use online banking itself.

What you pay for depends on which account you have. Bank of America has several checking accounts with different monthly fees, and some waive those fees if you meet certain conditions. Online banking is free regardless of which account you choose, but the account itself may or may not be.

Key Takeaways

  • Online banking through Bank of America's website and mobile app is free for all account holders and included with your account.
  • Monthly account fees vary by account type and range from zero to around $12, depending on your account and whether you meet fee-waiver requirements.
  • Bank of America waives monthly fees on most checking accounts if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
  • Some services within online banking, like wire transfers or expedited bill payments, may carry separate charges.

Which Bank of America accounts include free online banking

All Bank of America checking and savings accounts come with free online banking access. This includes their most common accounts: Advantage SafePass Checking, Advantage Plus Checking, and Preferred Rewards Checking. You get the same online tools regardless of which account you open.

The difference between accounts is the monthly maintenance fee and what you need to do to waive it. For example, Advantage SafePass Checking has a $12 monthly fee, but Bank of America waives it if you keep a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Other accounts have lower fees or different waiver conditions.

What you can do for free in online banking

Bank of America's free online banking includes the basics: viewing your balance and transaction history, transferring money between your own accounts, and paying bills to people or businesses you set up in the system. You can also deposit checks by taking a photo with the mobile app, and you can set up alerts when your balance drops below a certain amount.

You can also use online banking to manage your debit card — freeze or unfreeze it, change your PIN, and report it lost or stolen. If you have a credit card through Bank of America, you can view statements and make payments through the same login.

Services that may cost extra

Most online banking is free, but a few services carry separate charges. Wire transfers — sending money to another bank — typically cost $15 to $30 depending on whether it goes domestically or internationally. Expedited bill payments, where you pay a bill the same day instead of waiting a few business days, may also have a fee.

Some services are free but only if you meet account requirements. For instance, Bank of America does not charge to use their ATM network, but if you use an out-of-network ATM, the other bank may charge you a fee. Bank of America reimburses some of those fees depending on your account type and Preferred Rewards status.

How to set up Bank of America online banking

If you already have a Bank of America account, you can set up online banking by visiting bankofamerica.com and clicking "Log In" or "Register." You will need your account number and Social Security number to register. Bank of America will send you a temporary password by mail or email, which you use to create your own password.

Once you are registered, you can read the Bank of America mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play and log in with the same username and password. The app and website have the same features, so you can use whichever is more convenient.

Keeping your online banking find

Bank of America uses encryption to protect your login information and account details when you use their website or app. They also offer optional security features like SafePass, which sends you a code by text or email when you log in from a new device.

You are responsible for keeping your password private and logging out when you use a shared computer. If you notice suspicious activity in your account, contact Bank of America right away — they have fraud protection, but reporting quickly helps protect you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use online banking?

No. You can manage your account through a Bank of America branch, by phone, or by mail. Online banking is optional. However, some account fee waivers require direct deposit, which typically goes through online banking or payroll setup.

Can I pay anyone through online bill pay, or only certain businesses?

You can pay most businesses and individuals. Bank of America's bill pay system lets you set up payees and schedule payments. Some very small businesses or individuals may not be in their system, in which case you can request a check be mailed instead.

What happens if I forget my password?

You can reset it on the Bank of America login page by clicking "Forgot Password?" You will need to verify your identity using your account number, Social Security number, and other information. Bank of America will send you a reset link by email.

Is the mobile app the same as the website?

The app and website have the same core features — checking balances, transferring money, paying bills, and depositing checks. The app is designed for phones, so it may be faster for quick tasks, but both work equally well.