You can change your Bank of America checking account type online, by phone, or in person at a branch
Bank of America offers several checking account types—including Advantage SafePass, Advantage Plus, and Premium Rewards—each with different fees, minimum balances, and benefits. If you opened one type and now want a different one, you can switch without closing your account or losing your account number. The process takes minutes if you do it online, or you can call or visit a branch if you prefer to speak with someone.
Your existing account history, debit card, and direct deposits stay the same. The change typically takes effect immediately, though it may take a business day for all features to update in your online banking.
Key Takeaways
- You can switch checking account types through Bank of America's website, mobile app, phone line, or a local branch without closing your account.
- Your account number, routing number, and existing debit card remain unchanged when you switch account types.
- Different account types have different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and rewards—review the terms before switching to avoid unexpected charges.
- If you switch to an account type with a higher minimum balance requirement, you may face a monthly fee if you fall below it.
Switching online or through the mobile app
Log into your Bank of America online banking account or open the mobile app. Navigate to your checking account and look for a menu option labeled "Account Services," "Manage Account," or "Account Settings"—the exact label varies depending on which device or browser you use. Select the option to change your account type or view account options.
Bank of America will show you the account types available to you and their features side by side. Review the monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, overdraft protection options, and any rewards or benefits. Once you choose the account type you want, confirm the change. You should see a confirmation message immediately, and the change takes effect right away in most cases.
Changing your account type by phone
Call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000 (the number for checking account questions). Have your account number or the phone number associated with your account ready. Tell the representative you want to change your checking account type and describe which type you want to switch to.
The representative will confirm the features and fees of your new account type, verify that you meet any minimum balance requirements, and process the change. They will give you a confirmation number. The change usually takes effect the same day, though it may take until the next business day for all online banking features to reflect the new account type.
Switching in person at a Bank of America branch
Visit any Bank of America branch with your debit card or ID. Tell a teller or personal banker that you want to change your checking account type. They will show you the options available, explain the differences in fees and benefits, and process the change on the spot.
This is the best option if you have questions about which account type fits your banking habits, or if you want to understand how the minimum balance requirement works. The teller will give you a receipt confirming the change.
What happens to your existing account when you switch
Your account number and routing number do not change. Any automatic payments, direct deposits, or standing transfers linked to your account will continue without interruption. Your existing debit card remains active and will work immediately with your new account type.
Your account history—all past transactions, statements, and balances—stays with your account. You do not lose access to any of it. If you have linked your checking account to savings accounts, credit cards, or other Bank of America products, those links remain active.
Understanding fees and minimum balance requirements for each account type
Bank of America's checking account types vary in their monthly maintenance fees and minimum balance thresholds. Advantage SafePass typically has a lower minimum balance requirement but may charge a monthly fee if you do not meet it. Advantage Plus requires a higher minimum balance but waives the fee if you maintain it. Premium Rewards has the highest minimum balance requirement but offers cash back on debit card purchases and other perks.
Before you switch, check whether your typical account balance meets the minimum for your new account type. If you usually carry a balance below the minimum, you will pay a monthly fee—often $12 to $25, depending on the account type. Some accounts waive the fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance.
Switching back to your original account type
If you switch to a new account type and then decide it is not right for you, you can switch back using the same methods: online, by phone, or in person. Bank of America does not charge a fee to change account types, and there is no waiting period. You can switch as many times as you need to find the account that works best for your situation.
Keep in mind that if you switch to an account type with a higher monthly fee and then switch away from it, you will still owe any fees that were charged while you held that account type. Review your statements after you switch to confirm the new fee structure is correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will switching account types affect my credit score?
No. Changing your checking account type is an internal account change and does not appear on your credit report or affect your credit score. Bank of America does not run a credit check when you switch account types.
Can I switch account types if I have a negative balance or pending overdraft?
Yes, you can usually switch even if your account is overdrawn. However, you remain responsible for paying back the negative balance regardless of which account type you hold. If your new account type has different overdraft protection settings, those will take effect once the switch is complete.
How long does it take for my new account type to show up in online banking?
The change usually appears immediately if you switch online or by phone. If you switch in person at a branch, it may take until the next business day for your online banking to reflect the new account type. Your debit card and account number work with the new type right away.
What if I do not meet the minimum balance for my new account type?
You will be charged the monthly maintenance fee for that account type. You can avoid the fee by maintaining the minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or switching to a different account type with a lower minimum. Some accounts also waive the fee if you link a savings account with a certain balance.
Do I need to update my direct deposit or automatic payments when I switch?
No. Your account number and routing number stay the same, so all direct deposits and automatic payments continue without any changes on your end. You do not need to contact your employer or any companies you pay automatically.