You can change your Wells Fargo checking account type online, by phone, or in person at a branch
Wells Fargo lets you move between checking account types without closing your account or starting over with a new one. The process takes a few minutes if you do it online through your account settings, or you can call customer service or visit a branch. Your account number stays the same, your existing balance transfers automatically, and any scheduled payments or direct deposits keep working.
The account types available depend on whether you bank online or in person, and what features matter to you. Wells Fargo offers accounts with different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and perks like ATM fee reimbursement or interest on your balance. You can switch as many times as you need — there is no limit on how often you change account types.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your account type online through Wells Fargo's website, by calling 1-800-869-3557, or by visiting a branch in person.
- Your account number, balance, and all linked payments and deposits stay exactly the same when you switch account types.
- Wells Fargo offers several checking types with different fees and features — compare them before switching to make sure the new account fits your needs.
- If you switch to an account with a higher minimum balance requirement, you must meet that requirement within a set timeframe or pay a monthly fee.
Switching your account online through Wells Fargo's website
Log into your Wells Fargo account on their website or mobile app. Go to the account settings or account details section — the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but look for a link that says "Account Information" or "Manage Account." From there, you should see an option to change your account type or upgrade your account.
Click on the account you want to change, then select the new account type from the list of available options. Wells Fargo will show you the monthly fee, minimum balance requirement, and key features of each type so you can compare before you confirm. Once you select the new type and confirm, the change takes effect when ready. You will receive a confirmation email with your new account details.
If you do not see the option to change your account type online, it may mean your account is not may be able to access for that change through the website — this sometimes happens with older accounts or accounts with certain restrictions. In that case, call customer service or visit a branch.
Changing your account type by phone
Call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557. Tell the representative you want to change your checking account type and have your account number ready. They will walk you through the available options, explain the fees and features of each one, and ask which type you want to switch to.
The representative will confirm the change on the call and send you a confirmation email afterward. The switch happens right away, and your account number does not change. This route is useful if you have questions about which account type fits your situation, because the representative can explain the differences in real time.
Changing your account type at a Wells Fargo branch
Visit any Wells Fargo branch with your ID and ask to speak with someone about changing your account type. Bring your debit card or account number so they can pull up your account quickly. The banker will show you the available account types, explain what each one costs and what it includes, and process the change while you are there.
This is the slowest route if you are in a hurry, because you have to travel to a branch and wait for an available banker. However, it is useful if you want to ask detailed questions about your options or if you have had trouble making the change online or by phone.
What happens to your money and payments when you switch
Your account number stays the same, so your balance transfers automatically and you do not have to do anything. Any direct deposits set up to go into your account will keep arriving on schedule. Any automatic bill payments or transfers you have set up will keep working without interruption.
If you switch to an account type with a higher minimum balance requirement, you will need to meet that requirement within a certain timeframe — usually 30 to 60 days, depending on the account type. If you do not meet the minimum by the important date, Wells Fargo will charge you the monthly maintenance fee. Check the account details when you switch to see what the minimum is and when you need to meet it.
Understanding Wells Fargo checking account types and their costs
Wells Fargo offers several checking account types, and the ones available to you depend on how you bank and what your account history looks like. The most common types are Everyday Checking, Preferred Checking, and Platinum Checking, though Wells Fargo changes its product lineup periodically.
Each account type has a different monthly fee (or no fee if you meet certain conditions), a minimum balance requirement, and different perks. For example, one type might waive the monthly fee if you keep a certain balance, while another might waive it if you set up direct deposit. Some accounts offer ATM fee reimbursement or a small amount of interest on your balance. Before you switch, compare the monthly cost of each type based on how you actually use your account — what matters is not the features you might use, but the ones you will actually use.
What to do if you cannot change your account type online
If the option to change your account type does not appear in your online account settings, try calling customer service first. They can tell you whether your account is may be able to access to change types and why the online option might not be showing up. Some accounts have restrictions that prevent online changes, but customer service can usually process the change over the phone instead.
If customer service says your account cannot be changed to the type you want, ask what your options are. Sometimes you can open a new account of the desired type and transfer your balance, though this gives you a new account number and requires you to update any direct deposits or automatic payments. In other cases, Wells Fargo may offer you a different account type that is close to what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my account type affect my debit card or online banking?
No. Your debit card keeps working, your online banking login stays the same, and all your account information remains the same except for the account type itself. You do not need to order a new card or reset your password.
Can I change my account type if I have a negative balance or owe Wells Fargo money?
You may not be able to change your account type if your account is overdrawn or if you owe fees. Contact customer service to find out whether your account is may be able to access. If it is not, you will need to bring your balance to zero or pay what you owe before you can switch.
What if I change my account type and then want to change back?
You can switch back to your original account type or to any other available type at any time using the same methods — online, by phone, or in person. There is no penalty for switching account types, and you can do it as often as you need to.
How long does it take for the change to show up in my account?
The change takes effect when ready when you confirm it online or when the representative processes it over the phone or in person. You should see the new account type reflected in your account settings right away, and you will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes.
Do I need to close my old account when I switch to a new account type?
No. Changing your account type is not the same as closing your account. You are keeping the same account — you are just changing what type it is. Your account number, balance, and all your account history stay exactly the same.