You can change your checking account type by calling Bank of America, visiting a branch, or using their online banking portal
Bank of America offers several checking account types — Advantage, Advantage Plus, and Preferred Rewards are the most common — and you can move between them without closing your account or losing your account number. The process takes a few minutes and can happen over the phone, in person, or through your online dashboard. Your new account type takes effect when ready or within one business day, depending on which method you use.
The reason to switch is usually because your banking habits have changed. You might want lower monthly fees, higher interest rates, or different perks. Some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet certain conditions — like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit — so moving to an account with lower requirements can save you money.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your account type by phone, in a branch, or through your online banking portal 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.
- Different account types have different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and interest rates, so compare them before you switch.
- The change usually takes effect the same day or within one business day, depending on which method you use.
- If you are not sure which account type fits your needs, a Bank of America representative can walk you through the differences.
Switching through your online banking portal
Log into your Bank of America online account and go to the Settings or Account Services section — the exact location varies slightly depending on whether you use the website or the mobile app. Look for an option labeled "Change Account Type" or "Manage Accounts." Select your checking account from the list, then choose the new account type you want from the available options.
The portal will show you a side-by-side comparison of the account types, including monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and any interest rates. Review these details before you confirm the change. Once you submit, the switch usually takes effect when ready, though it may take until the next business day to show in all parts of your account.
Switching by phone or in a branch
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 differences between the account types available to you, answer questions about fees and requirements, and process the change while you are on the phone.
If you prefer to do this in person, visit any Bank of America branch with your ID and ask to speak with someone about changing your account type. Bring your debit card or account number so the representative can pull up your account quickly. This method is useful if you have questions about which account fits your situation or if you want to understand the fees in detail before you decide.
What happens to your account number and automatic payments
Your account number and routing number do not change when you switch account types. This means you do not need to update direct deposit instructions with your employer, change automatic bill payments, or notify anyone who sends you money. Everything connected to your account continues to work exactly as it did before.
The only thing that changes is the account type itself — the fees, interest rate, and any perks or requirements tied to that specific account. Your transaction history, balance, and all your existing transfers and payments stay in place.
Understanding the main Bank of America checking account types
Bank of America's Advantage Checking account has a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet one of several conditions: keep a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance. This account does not earn interest on your checking balance.
Advantage Plus Checking has a higher monthly maintenance fee but offers more perks, including interest on your checking balance (though the rate is typically very low). It also waives the fee if you meet higher balance or direct deposit requirements. This account is designed for people who keep larger balances or want the interest feature.
Preferred Rewards Checking is available only to customers enrolled in Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program, which is based on how much money you have across all your Bank of America accounts. This account typically has no monthly fee and may offer a higher interest rate than other checking accounts.
When to switch and what to consider
Switch to a lower-fee account if you are paying a monthly maintenance fee and do not meet the conditions to waive it. For example, if you do not have direct deposit and cannot keep the minimum balance, moving to an account with lower requirements saves you money each month.
Switch to an account with interest if you keep a large balance in your checking account and want to earn a small amount of interest on it. The rates are usually very low — often less than one percent — but if you have thousands of dollars sitting in checking, even a small rate adds up over time.
Before you switch, compare the monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, direct deposit requirements, and interest rates of each account type. Bank of America's website lists these details, or you can ask a representative to walk you through them. The goal is to find the account type that costs you the least money based on how you actually use your account.
What to do if you change your mind
If you switch to a new account type and decide it is not right for you, you can change back to your previous account type using the same methods — online, by phone, or in a branch. There is no penalty for switching, and you can do it as many times as you need to find the account that works best for your situation.
Keep in mind that if you switch back and forth frequently, you may want to spend time understanding which account type actually fits your banking habits. A representative can help you figure out which account will cost you the least money based on your balance, direct deposit, and how often you use your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will switching account types affect my debit card or online banking access?
No. Your debit card, online banking login, and mobile app access all stay the same. You can use them when ready after you switch, with no interruption to your service.
Can I switch back to my old account type if I do not like the new one?
Yes. You can switch back using the same methods — online, by phone, or in a branch. There is no fee or penalty for changing your account type, and you can do it as often as you need.
Do I need to visit a branch to change my account type, or can I do it online?
You can do it online through your banking portal, by phone, or in a branch. The online method is usually the fastest if you are comfortable navigating your account settings. Calling or visiting a branch is helpful if you have questions about which account type is right for you.
What if my account does not show all the account types as options?
Some account types have may be able to access requirements based on your balance, direct deposit status, or enrollment in Preferred Rewards. If an account type does not appear as an option, a Bank of America representative can tell you what you need to do to become may be able to access for it.
How long does it take for the account type change to show up in my account?
If you change it online or by phone, the switch usually takes effect the same day. If you change it in a branch, it may take until the next business day. Either way, your account number and all your transactions stay the same.