You can change your Bank of America checking account type, but the process and options depend on which account you have now and which one you want
Bank of America offers several checking account types — Advantage SafePass, Advantage Plus, Advantage Relationship Banking, and Interest Checking — each with different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and features. You can move between most of them without closing your account, though some switches require a phone call or branch visit rather than online action.
The fastest way to change is through your Bank of America online account or mobile app. If that option is not available for your specific switch, you will need to call customer service at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person. The change usually takes effect within one to three business days.
Key Takeaways
- Most Bank of America checking account switches can be done online through your account settings, though some require a phone call to customer service.
- Changing account types does not close your existing account or affect your routing number, debit card, or direct deposits.
- Some account types have monthly maintenance fees that vary based on your balance or linked accounts, so compare fees before you switch.
- If you downgrade to a lower-tier account, any perks tied to your old account — like waived fees or higher interest rates — will stop once the change takes effect.
How to change your account type online
Log into your Bank of America account on the website or app and navigate to your checking account settings. Look for an option labeled "Account Type," "Change Account," or "Manage Account." Click through to see which account types are available to you based on your current balance and account history.
Select the new account type you want and review the fee structure and requirements. Bank of America will show you a side-by-side comparison of your current account and the new one, including monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance thresholds, and any benefits that will change. Confirm the switch, and the change will process within one to three business days.
Not all account switches are available online. If you do not see a "Change Account" option in your settings, or if the system tells you that switch is not available, you will need to call customer service or visit a branch.
Switching by phone or in person
Call Bank of America customer service 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 confirm your identity, explain the fees and features of your new account type, and process the change on the call.
If you prefer to switch in person, visit any Bank of America branch with your ID and debit card. A banker can walk you through the account types available to you, answer questions about fees and features, and make the change immediately. This option is useful if you have questions about which account fits your banking habits or if you want to discuss other account changes at the same time.
What happens to your account when you switch
Your account number, routing number, and debit card stay the same when you change account types. Direct deposits, automatic bill payments, and any scheduled transfers will continue without interruption. You do not need to notify your employer, creditors, or anyone else who sends money to your account.
If you are switching to an account with a higher monthly fee, that fee will start on your next billing cycle. If you are switching to an account with a lower fee or no fee, the old fee will stop. Any promotional offers tied to your old account — such as waived fees for a certain period or a higher interest rate — will end once the switch takes effect, so read the terms carefully before you confirm.
Comparing Bank of America checking account types
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advantage SafePass | $0 with direct deposit or $12 | None | No overdraft fees if you link a savings account; mobile check deposit |
| Advantage Plus | $0 with $1,500 balance or $12 | $1,500 | Overdraft protection; higher interest rate on linked savings |
| Advantage Relationship Banking | $0 with $2,500 balance or $20 | $2,500 | Waived fees on multiple services; priority customer service |
| Interest Checking | $0 with $10,000 balance or $25 | $10,000 | Interest earned on balance; waived ATM fees worldwide |
The account type that makes sense for you depends on how much money you typically keep in checking and what features matter most. If you do not maintain a high balance, Advantage SafePass is the easiest way to avoid monthly fees — you just need a direct deposit. If you want overdraft protection or a slightly higher interest rate, Advantage Plus requires a $1,500 minimum. The higher-tier accounts are worth it only if you can meet their balance requirements or if you use enough of their perks to justify the fee.
What to do if you cannot switch online
Some account switches are blocked if you have a negative balance, an outstanding dispute, or a hold on your account. If the online system will not let you switch, call customer service to find out why. The representative can often override the block or explain what you need to do first — such as bringing your balance positive — before you can change account types.
If you are switching from a specialty account (such as a student or senior account) to a standard checking account, you may need to call or visit a branch because those switches are not always available online. The same applies if you are trying to switch to an account type that is not currently offered in your state or region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will switching account types affect my credit score?
No. Changing your checking account type does not trigger a credit inquiry or appear on your credit report. It is an internal change to your existing account and has no impact on your credit.
Can I switch back to my old account type later?
Yes. You can switch back to your previous account type at any time using the same method you used to switch the first time — online, by phone, or in person. There is no penalty or waiting period for switching back and forth.
What if I have a promotional rate or waived fees on my current account?
Promotional offers end when you switch account types. Before you change, check the terms of your current account to see what perks you will lose. Some promotions are tied to the account type itself, so switching will end them even if you switch back later.
Do I need to update my direct deposit information after I switch?
No. Your account number and routing number stay the same, so your employer and any other sources of direct deposit will continue to work without any changes on your end.
Can I have multiple checking account types at Bank of America?
Yes. You can open a second checking account with a different account type if you want to keep both. Each account will have its own monthly fee (if applicable) and its own balance requirements, so you would pay fees on both unless each one meets the criteria to waive the fee.