Bank of America offers two main mobile apps: the standard Bank of America app for everyday banking, and the Bank of America Investor app for investment and brokerage accounts
The Bank of America Mobile Banking app is the primary tool for checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, and transfers. It works on both iOS and Android devices and is free to download from the App Store or Google Play. You log in with your online banking username and password — the same credentials you use on the Bank of America website.
The Bank of America Investor app is separate and designed for customers with investment accounts, brokerage accounts, or retirement accounts through Bank of America Investments. It also runs on iOS and Android and is free.
Both apps require you to have an active Bank of America account and to be enrolled in online banking. If you have not yet set up online banking, you can do that through the Bank of America website or by calling 1-800-BANK-OF-A (1-800-226-5628).
Key Takeaways
- The Bank of America Mobile Banking app handles checking, savings, credit cards, loans, and transfers for most customers.
- The Bank of America Investor app is a separate download for customers with investment or brokerage accounts.
- Both apps are free and require your online banking login to access.
- You can set up mobile check deposit, view statements, pay bills, and transfer money between your own accounts or to other people.
- The apps work on iOS and Android devices and are updated regularly with new features and security improvements.
What you can do in the Bank of America Mobile Banking app
The main app lets you check balances and recent transactions on all your linked accounts in real time. You can view pending deposits, scheduled transfers, and upcoming bill payments. The app shows your credit card balance and available credit, and you can make payments to your credit card or other Bank of America loans from within the app.
Mobile check deposit is built into the app — you photograph the front and back of a check, enter the amount, and the deposit goes into your chosen account. Most checks clear within one business day. You can also transfer money between your own Bank of America accounts instantly, or send money to people at other banks using Bank of America's transfer service (which may take one to three business days depending on the receiving bank).
Bill pay is available through the app. You can schedule one-time or recurring payments to companies and individuals, and the app tracks payment status. You can also view and download statements, set up account alerts (for low balances, large transactions, or payment due dates), and lock or unlock your debit card if it is lost or you suspect fraud.
Security features and login options
Bank of America uses multi-factor authentication on the mobile app. After you enter your username and password, the app may ask you to verify your identity using a code sent to your phone, a security question, or biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition if your device supports it). You can choose to stay logged in on your device, but the app will still require verification for sensitive actions like changing passwords or adding new payees.
If you lose your phone or believe someone has accessed your account, you can remotely lock the app through your online banking profile or by calling Bank of America. The app also allows you to set a PIN or biometric lock so that even if someone has your phone, they cannot open the app without that additional step.
Differences between the mobile app and the website
The mobile app and the Bank of America website (bankofamerica.com) show the same account information and let you do most of the same tasks. The app is optimized for a phone screen and loads faster on mobile networks. Some features are easier to access on the website — for example, detailed investment research tools are more robust on the desktop version, and some loan applications or account changes may require the website.
If you cannot complete a task in the app, try the website or call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-BANK-OF-A. The app also sends you push notifications for alerts and transactions, which the website does not do.
Downloading and updating the apps
Search for "Bank of America" in the App Store (for iPhone) or Google Play (for Android). The official app has a blue icon with the Bank of America logo. Tap "Get" or "Install" to download it for free. Once installed, open the app and log in with your online banking username and password.
Bank of America releases updates regularly to add features, fix bugs, and improve security. Your phone can be set to update apps automatically, or you can manually check the App Store or Google Play for updates. If you have not updated the app in several months, you may see a prompt to update before you can log in — this is normal and protects your account.
If you have an older phone or an older version of iOS or Android, the latest version of the Bank of America app may not work. Check the App Store or Google Play listing to see the minimum operating system required. If your phone cannot support the current version, you can still use online banking through a web browser on your phone.
Troubleshooting common app problems
If you cannot log in, first check that you are using the correct username and password. If you have forgotten your password, tap "Forgot username or password?" on the login screen and follow the steps to reset it. You will need access to the phone number or email address associated with your account.
If the app crashes or freezes, try closing it completely and reopening it. If that does not work, restart your phone. If the problem continues, uninstall the app, restart your phone again, and reinstall it from the App Store or Google Play. If you still cannot access your account, call Bank of America at 1-800-BANK-OF-A and speak to a representative who can help troubleshoot or reset your login.
If you see an error message about your account being locked or suspended, this usually means Bank of America has detected unusual activity or you have entered your password incorrectly too many times. Call the number on the back of your debit card or credit card to unlock your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Bank of America app without a smartphone?
No, the mobile app requires iOS or Android. However, you can access your Bank of America accounts through any web browser on a computer or tablet by going to bankofamerica.com and logging in with your online banking credentials.
Is the Bank of America app safe to use on public WiFi?
Bank of America encrypts data between your phone and its servers, so your login and account information are protected even on public WiFi. However, it is still safer to use your phone's cellular data when possible. Never use public WiFi to log into sensitive accounts if you can avoid it.
Can I pay bills to anyone using the mobile app?
You can pay any company or person you set up as a payee in the bill pay system. The first time you add a new payee, Bank of America may verify the account information, which can take one business day. After that, you can schedule payments whenever you want.
What happens if I delete the Bank of America app?
Deleting the app does not close your account or delete your data. Your account remains active and you can still access it through the website or by calling Bank of America. When you reinstall the app and log in, all your information will be there.
Does the app work internationally?
Yes, you can use the Bank of America app anywhere you have an internet connection. However, if you are traveling outside the United States, tell Bank of America before you go so they do not block your card for fraud protection. Some features like mobile check deposit may not work in all countries.