Bank of America offers two main mobile apps for different account types

Bank of America has a mobile banking app for standard checking and savings accounts, and a separate Merrill Edge app for investment accounts. The standard BofA app is available on iOS and Android. Both apps let you check balances, transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and send money to other people through Zelle.

The apps are free to read. You log in with your existing Bank of America username and password — the same credentials you use for online banking on a computer. If you don't have online banking set up yet, you can create login credentials through the app itself.

Bank of America also offers a Business Mobile Banking app if you have a business checking account. The features are similar to the consumer app but include tools for managing employee cards and viewing transaction details relevant to business accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's main mobile app works on both iPhone and Android and is free to read from the App Store or Google Play.
  • You can check balances, transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and send money to other people through the app.
  • Login uses your existing Bank of America online banking username and password.
  • If you have investment accounts, Merrill Edge is a separate app designed specifically for trading and portfolio management.
  • Business accounts have their own dedicated app with features tailored to business banking needs.

What you can do in the standard Bank of America app

The app shows your account balances and recent transactions in real time. You can set up alerts to notify you when your balance drops below a certain amount, when a large transaction posts, or when a bill payment is due.

Money movement happens through several routes. You can transfer between your own Bank of America accounts when ready. You can pay bills to companies and individuals through the app — the payment goes out on the date you choose, and most payments arrive within one to three business days. You can also send money to people at other banks using Zelle, which typically delivers the money within minutes if the recipient is already enrolled, or within one business day if they need to sign up first.

Mobile check deposit lets you photograph the front and back of a check and deposit it without visiting a branch. The app walks you through the process and tells you the deposit amount and expected posting date. Deposits made before 9 p.m. ET on a business day usually post the next day.

How to read and set up the app

Search for "Bank of America" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The official app has the Bank of America logo and is published by "Bank of America Corporation." read and open it.

On first launch, you can either log in with existing online banking credentials or enroll in online banking through the app. If you're enrolling for the first time, you'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and account number (found on your debit card or bank statements). The enrollment process takes a few minutes and generates a username and password you'll use for both the app and online banking.

Once logged in, the app asks whether you want to set up biometric login — fingerprint or face recognition. This is optional but makes future logins faster. You can also choose to stay logged in on your device, though Bank of America recommends logging out on shared devices.

Security features in the mobile app

Bank of America uses encryption to protect data sent between your phone and their servers. The app also supports two-factor authentication, which sends a code to your phone or email when you log in from a new device or browser.

If your phone is lost or stolen, you can remotely log out of the app through your online banking account on a computer. This prevents someone else from accessing your accounts through the app on that device. You should also contact Bank of America directly to report the loss and discuss whether to freeze or cancel your debit card.

The app does not store your full account numbers or Social Security number on your phone. It also does not allow you to change your password through the app — you must do that through online banking on a computer, which adds a layer of protection against unauthorized password changes.

Differences between the mobile app and online banking on a computer

The mobile app and online banking show the same account information and let you do most of the same tasks. The main differences are in what's practical on a small screen. The app is designed for quick checks and straightforward transactions. Online banking on a computer gives you more detailed views of your accounts, more filtering and sorting options, and easier access to statements and tax documents.

Some features are only on the computer version. You cannot open a new account through the app — you must do that online or in a branch. You also cannot change your online banking password, set up bill pay to new companies for the first time, or access certain account settings through the app.

For most daily banking — checking your balance, transferring money, paying bills to companies you've already set up, and depositing checks — the app is faster and more convenient than logging into a computer.

What to do if the app crashes or won't log in

If the app won't open or keeps crashing, try closing it completely and reopening it. If that doesn't work, restart your phone. Then try logging in again.

If you still can't log in, check whether you're using the correct username and password. Bank of America usernames are case-sensitive. If you've forgotten your password, tap "Forgot username or password?" on the login screen. You'll be asked to verify your identity using your Social Security number and other information, and then you can create a new password.

If the app still won't work after restarting your phone and resetting your password, uninstall the app, restart your phone again, and reinstall it from the App Store or Google Play. This clears out any corrupted files. If problems continue, contact Bank of America customer service through online banking on a computer, by phone, or by visiting a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a new Bank of America account through the mobile app?

No. You can open accounts through online banking on a computer or in a Bank of America branch, but not through the mobile app. The app is designed for managing existing accounts, not opening new ones.

Is the Bank of America mobile app the same as the Merrill Edge app?

No. The Bank of America app is for checking, savings, and credit card accounts. Merrill Edge is a separate app for investment and brokerage accounts. If you have both types of accounts, you'll need both apps.

Can I pay credit card bills from other banks through the Bank of America app?

Yes. You can set up bill payments to any company or person, including credit card issuers. The payment goes out on the date you choose, and most payments arrive within one to three business days. You'll need the company's mailing address or account number to set up the first payment.

What happens if I don't use the app for a long time?

Bank of America will not delete your account or close it for inactivity through the app. However, if your overall account shows no activity for a long period, the bank may close it under its account maintenance policies. Check your account regularly through the app or online banking to keep it active.

Can I use the Bank of America app outside the United States?

Yes. The app works internationally as long as you have internet access. However, if you're traveling, contact Bank of America before you leave to let them know. They may flag foreign transactions as fraud otherwise, which could temporarily block your card or account access.