Ever found yourself staring at your Bank of America statement, wondering, "Is this a checking account or a savings account, and what kind of checking account is it?" You're not alone! Knowing your account type is crucial for understanding fees, interest earnings, and the features available to you. Let's embark on a clear, step-by-step journey to uncover your Bank of America account type.
How to Know Your Bank of America Account Type: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding your Bank of America account type is easier than you might think. Whether you're trying to avoid monthly fees, maximize interest, or simply need to confirm details for a financial application, this guide will walk you through all the methods.
Step 1: Let's Start with the Most Convenient Option - Online Banking!
Are you already an online banking user with Bank of America? If so, this is by far the quickest and most detailed way to discover your account type. If not, don't worry, we'll cover other options too!
Sub-heading 1.1: Logging into Your Online Banking Account
- Open your web browser and navigate to the official Bank of America website (bankofamerica.com).
- Locate the "Log In" section, usually found at the top right of the homepage.
- Enter your User ID and Password and click "Log In." You might be prompted for a security verification, such as a one-time passcode sent to your phone or email.
Sub-heading 1.2: Navigating to Your Account Details
Once logged in, you'll typically see an "Accounts Overview" page.
- Click on the specific account you want to identify. This will take you to a detailed view of that account's activity.
- Look for a tab or section often labeled "Information & Services", "Account Details", or similar. Clicking on this will reveal crucial information.
- Within this section, you should find your account type clearly stated. It might say "Advantage Plus Banking," "Advantage SafeBalance Banking," "Advantage Relationship Banking" for checking accounts, or "Advantage Savings" or "Money Market Savings" for savings accounts. You might also see terms like "Certificate of Deposit (CD)" or "IRA."
Pro Tip: You can also find your full account number in this section by clicking a "Show" link next to the masked number.
Step 2: Utilizing the Power of the Bank of America Mobile App
For those who prefer managing their finances on the go, the Bank of America mobile app is an excellent tool.
Sub-heading 2.1: Accessing Your Accounts via the Mobile App
- Open the Bank of America Mobile Banking app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log in using your User ID and Password, or via biometric authentication (fingerprint, face ID) if enabled.
Sub-heading 2.2: Finding Account Type in the App
- From the app's main screen, you'll see a list of your accounts.
- Tap on the account whose type you wish to determine.
- Similar to online banking, look for a section with account details or information. The account type will be displayed there. You might also find it by exploring options like "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets" for checking accounts, as it often lists the account type.
Step 3: Deciphering Your Monthly Bank Statement
Your physical or electronic bank statements are a treasure trove of information about your account.
Sub-heading 3.1: Locating Your Statement
- Paper Statements: If you receive paper statements, simply find your most recent one.
- Electronic Statements (eStatements): If you've gone paperless, you can access your eStatements through your Online Banking account (as described in Step 1) under the "Statements & Documents" section. Bank of America typically keeps up to 18 months of statements available online.
Sub-heading 3.2: Identifying the Account Type on the Statement
On your statement, usually near the top or within the account summary section, you will find the account name and type clearly printed. For example, it might say "Bank of America Advantage Plus Checking" or "Bank of America Advantage Savings." This is a definitive way to confirm your account's classification.
Step 4: The Old-Fashioned Way: Visiting a Financial Center
Sometimes, a face-to-face conversation is the best way to get answers.
Sub-heading 4.1: Preparing for Your Visit
- Find a nearby Bank of America financial center using their website's branch locator.
- Bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or state ID, and your account number (even if you only have the last four digits). This helps the bank representative verify your identity.
Sub-heading 4.2: Speaking with a Bank Specialist
Upon arrival, inform a bank associate that you need to confirm your account type. They can look up your account details and provide you with all the necessary information. This is also a great opportunity to ask any other questions you might have about your account's features, fees, or even explore other account options.
Step 5: Connecting with Customer Service via Phone
If visiting a branch isn't convenient, a phone call can provide the answers you need.
Sub-heading 5.1: Gathering Necessary Information
- Have your account number ready.
- Be prepared to verify your identity with personal information like your Social Security Number, date of birth, or answers to security questions.
Sub-heading 5.2: Calling Bank of America Customer Service
Dial Bank of America's customer service number. For general inquiries about checking and savings accounts, you can typically call 1-800-432-1000. When prompted, navigate the automated system or ask to speak to a representative who can assist with account inquiries. Clearly state that you wish to know the specific type of your Bank of America account.
Common Bank of America Account Types You Might Encounter:
- Checking Accounts:
- Advantage SafeBalance Banking®: Often a good choice for those who prefer to avoid overdraft fees, as it doesn't allow overdrafts.
- Advantage Plus Banking®: A more traditional checking account with options to waive the monthly maintenance fee.
- Advantage Relationship Banking®: Designed for clients who maintain higher balances across their Bank of America accounts, offering more benefits and fee waivers.
- Savings Accounts:
- Advantage Savings: A basic savings account that earns interest.
- Money Market Savings: Typically offers higher interest rates than standard savings accounts, but may have higher minimum balance requirements and limited transactions.
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Time deposits that offer a fixed interest rate for a specified period.
- Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): Accounts designed for retirement savings.
By using one or more of these methods, you'll quickly and accurately identify your Bank of America account type, empowering you to better manage your finances!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Bank of America account balance?
You can check your Bank of America account balance instantly through Online Banking, the Mobile Banking app, by calling customer service, or at any Bank of America ATM.
How to find my Bank of America account number?
You can find your full Bank of America account number by logging into Online Banking and navigating to the Information & Services tab for your selected account, or through the Mobile Banking app in the account details section. It's also printed on your monthly statements and checks.
How to avoid monthly fees on Bank of America checking accounts?
Monthly fees on Bank of America checking accounts can often be waived by maintaining a minimum daily balance, having qualifying direct deposits, being a member of the Preferred Rewards program, or meeting age/student criteria. Specific requirements vary by account type.
How to open a new Bank of America account?
You can open a new Bank of America account online through their website, by visiting a financial center, or by calling their new account services line.
How to set up direct deposit with Bank of America?
To set up direct deposit, you'll need your Bank of America account number and the Bank of America routing number. You then provide this information to your employer or the payer. You can find these details in your Online Banking account or on a check.
How to transfer money between Bank of America accounts?
You can transfer money between your Bank of America accounts easily using Online Banking or the Mobile Banking app. Simply select the accounts for the transfer and the amount.
How to order new checks for my Bank of America account?
You can order new checks for your Bank of America checking account through Online Banking, the Mobile Banking app (under "Order Checks & Deposit Tickets"), or by contacting customer service.
How to dispute a charge on my Bank of America debit or credit card?
To dispute a charge, you can log in to Online Banking or the Mobile Banking app, navigate to the transaction, and follow the dispute process, or call customer service.
How to enroll in Bank of America Online Banking?
You can enroll in Bank of America Online Banking directly on the Bank of America website by clicking the "Enroll now" link in the login section. You'll need your account information and personal details to complete the enrollment.
How to find a Bank of America ATM or financial center near me?
You can find the nearest Bank of America ATM or financial center by using the "Find a financial center" or "ATM & financial center locator" tool on the Bank of America website or within the Mobile Banking app.
