Yes, you can change most Bank of America account types online through your profile settings
Bank of America lets you switch between most of their checking and savings account types without closing your account or visiting a branch. You do this through your online banking dashboard under account settings. The process takes a few minutes, though some account changes require a phone call to confirm.
Not every account type can be changed online. If you hold a specialty account—like a CDs, money market account, or investment account—you will need to call Bank of America directly or visit a branch. The same applies if you want to downgrade to a basic account from a premium one; Bank of America sometimes requires that conversation to happen over the phone to make sure you understand what you are losing.
Key Takeaways
- Most checking and savings account switches happen online through your Bank of America profile, under account settings or account management.
- Premium accounts (like Preferred Rewards tiers) and specialty products like CDs require a phone call to Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to change.
- Your account number, routing number, and linked payments stay the same when you change account types, so you do not need to update automatic bill pay.
- The change takes effect immediately or within one business day depending on the account type, and you will receive a confirmation email.
- If you downgrade from a premium account, any monthly fees tied to that tier will stop, but you may lose perks like fee waivers or higher interest rates.
How to change your account type through online banking
Log into your Bank of America account at bankofamerica.com or through the mobile app. On the dashboard, look for "Account Settings" or "Manage Accounts"—the exact label depends on whether you are using the website or app, but it is usually in the top right corner or in a menu labeled with three horizontal lines.
Select the account you want to change. You will see options for that account, including account type. Click on the account type field, and Bank of America will show you which other account types you can switch to. Choose the one you want and confirm. You will get an on-screen confirmation and an email receipt within a few minutes.
If the account type you want does not appear as an option, that means Bank of America does not allow that switch online. Stop there and call 1-800-432-1000 instead. Do not try to work around it by closing and reopening an account—that creates a new account number and can break automatic payments.
When you have to call instead of using online banking
Bank of America requires a phone call for downgrades from premium accounts, changes involving CDs or money market accounts, and switches to or from investment accounts. They also require a call if you are moving to an account type that has different minimum balance requirements and your current balance falls short.
Call 1-800-432-1000 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern). Have your account number and Social Security number ready. The representative will confirm the change, explain any fee or feature differences, and process it on the call. The change usually takes effect the same day or by the next business day.
What stays the same when you change account types
Your account number and routing number do not change. This means any automatic bill payments, direct deposits, or transfers you have set up will keep working without interruption. You do not need to contact your employer, creditors, or any other organization to update your banking information.
Your transaction history and account balance stay exactly as they are. Changing account type is not the same as transferring money or closing an account—it is just changing the terms and features attached to the same account.
What changes when you switch account types
Monthly fees may go up or down depending on which account you are switching to. Some Bank of America accounts have no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit; others charge a flat fee regardless. Check the fee schedule for the new account type before you confirm the switch.
Interest rates on savings balances can change. If you are moving from a savings account to a checking account, you will lose interest earnings. If you are moving from a lower-tier savings account to a higher-tier one, your rate may improve. Bank of America publishes current rates on their website, though they vary by region and account tier.
Perks and waivers tied to premium accounts disappear when you downgrade. This includes overdraft fee waivers, ATM fee reimbursements, and higher interest rates. If you are downgrading because of fees, make sure the new account type actually costs less once you factor in the perks you are losing.
If the change does not go through
If you see an error message or the account type you want does not show up as an option, the most common reason is that your account does not meet the requirements for that type. For example, some accounts require a minimum opening deposit or a minimum balance to maintain. If your balance is too low, you will need to deposit money first or call to discuss alternatives.
Another reason the switch might be blocked is if you have a hold on your account—usually because of a dispute, fraud investigation, or unpaid fees. Bank of America will not let you change account types while a hold is active. Call 1-800-432-1000 to learn about a hold exists and what you need to do to clear it.
If you changed your account type but the change did not take effect after one business day, check your email for a confirmation message. If you did not receive one, log back into your account and verify the change went through. If it did not, call Bank of America to confirm the request was processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my account type affect my credit score?
No. Changing account types is an internal change to your existing account and does not trigger a credit inquiry or appear on your credit report. Your credit score is not affected.
Can I change my account type if I have a negative balance or owe fees?
Bank of America will usually block account type changes if your balance is negative or you have unpaid fees. Pay the balance or fees first, then try the change again. If you cannot pay immediately, call 1-800-432-1000 to discuss payment options.
What happens to my debit card when I change account types?
Your debit card stays active and works the same way. You do not need a new card, and the card number does not change. If your new account type has different spending limits or features, those take effect immediately, but the physical card itself remains valid.
Can I change my account type back if I change my mind?
Yes. You can switch back to your previous account type using the same online process or by calling. There is no penalty for changing account types multiple times, though Bank of America may flag your account if you change very frequently in a short period.
How long does it take for the change to show up in my account?
Online changes usually take effect immediately or within one business day. Phone changes typically take effect the same day you call. You will receive an email confirmation either way. Check your account settings the next day to confirm the new account type is showing.