The fastest way to pay is through the Bank of America website or mobile app
You can pay your Bank of America credit card balance online in minutes, either through your computer or phone. Log into your Bank of America account, find your credit card, and select "Make a Payment." You'll choose how much to pay, what date the payment should arrive, and which account to pull the money from — usually a checking account at Bank of America or another bank.
The payment typically posts to your credit card within one business day if you pay before the cutoff time (usually 8 p.m. Eastern). If you pay after that time or on a weekend, it may take until the next business day. Bank of America does not charge a fee for online payments made this way.
You can also set up automatic payments so your bill is paid on a date you choose each month — for example, the day after you get paid. This removes the risk of forgetting and helps you avoid late fees.
Key Takeaways
- Online and mobile app payments are free and usually post within one business day.
- You can pay the full balance, the minimum payment, or any amount in between.
- Automatic payments can be set up to pay on the same date each month.
- Phone and mail payments are also available if you prefer not to use the website or app.
- Payments made after 8 p.m. Eastern or on weekends post the next business day.
Paying by phone or mail if you don't use online banking
If you prefer to pay by phone, call the number on the back of your credit card. A representative will ask for your account number and the amount you want to pay, then confirm the payment date. Phone payments are also free and post within one business day.
You can also mail a check or money order to the address shown on your monthly statement. Write your account number on the check. Mail payments take longer — typically five to seven business days to arrive and post — so send them early if your due date is coming up soon.
Understanding your due date and what happens if you miss it
Your due date is printed on your monthly statement and is usually the same date each month. This is the date by which Bank of America must receive your payment to avoid a late fee. If you pay after this date, you'll typically be charged a late fee (the amount varies based on your account terms) and your interest rate may increase.
If you miss a payment by 30 days or more, Bank of America will report it to credit bureaus, which can lower your credit score. If you realize you'll miss a due date, call the number on your card right away — sometimes the bank can work with you on timing or fees, especially if this is your first late payment.
Paying more than the minimum to reduce interest charges
Your statement shows a minimum payment (usually 1 to 3 percent of your balance) and your full balance. The minimum keeps your account in good standing, but paying only the minimum means you'll pay interest on the remaining balance. The higher your balance and the longer you carry it, the more interest you'll pay overall.
Paying more than the minimum — or paying the full balance — reduces the amount of interest you owe. For example, if you have a $2,000 balance and pay only the minimum each month, you'll pay interest for many months. If you pay $500 a month instead, you'll be debt-free in four months and pay much less in interest.
You can pay any amount between the minimum and the full balance. Many people find it helpful to pay what they can afford each month, as long as it's more than the minimum.
Setting up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates
Automatic payments take the guesswork out of remembering when to pay. Log into your Bank of America account, go to "Payments," and select "Set Up Automatic Payments." You'll choose the amount (minimum, full balance, or a fixed dollar amount), the date each month, and which account to pull the money from.
If you set up automatic payments for the full balance, your card will be paid in full each month and you'll avoid interest charges. If you set it up for a fixed amount like $300 a month, the payment will go out on that date regardless of your balance. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your account.
One thing to watch: if you set automatic payments for a fixed amount and your balance grows larger, you may not pay it off as quickly. Review your statement each month to make sure the automatic payment is working the way you intended.
What to do if you can't pay your full balance right now
If you're struggling to pay, contact Bank of America before your due date. Explain your situation — job loss, medical emergency, unexpected expense — and ask what options might be available. The bank may be able to lower your interest rate temporarily, set up a payment plan, or discuss other arrangements.
Paying something, even if it's less than the full balance, is better than paying nothing. A partial payment keeps your account in better standing than a missed payment and shows the bank you're trying to manage the debt. If you miss a payment, the sooner you catch up, the less damage it does to your credit score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Bank of America credit card with a debit card?
No, you cannot pay a credit card with another credit card. You can pay with a debit card, a checking or savings account, or cash (at a Bank of America branch). Paying with a debit card or bank account is the most common method and is free.
What time does my payment need to arrive to count toward this month's due date?
Payments made online or by phone before 8 p.m. Eastern on the due date count as on-time. Payments made after 8 p.m. or on weekends post the next business day. Mail payments must arrive by the due date, so send them at least five to seven days early.
Will paying my credit card early hurt my credit score?
No. Paying early or paying more than the minimum does not hurt your credit. In fact, paying more than the minimum reduces your credit utilization (the amount of your credit limit you're using), which can help your credit score over time.
Can I pay my credit card at a Bank of America ATM?
Some Bank of America ATMs allow you to make payments, but not all. The easiest and most reliable way is through the website, app, or by phone. If you want to pay in person, you can visit a Bank of America branch and speak to a representative.
What happens if I pay too much by accident?
If you overpay, the extra amount becomes a credit on your account. You can use it toward future purchases, or contact Bank of America to request a refund of the overpayment.