Bank of America credit cards offer solid options for cash back, travel rewards, and building credit.
Whether you’re a student, a frequent traveler, or want simple rewards, there’s a card that can match your spending habits.
This guide will show you how to apply, explore the best Bank of America credit cards, and maximize their perks.
Benefits of Choosing Bank of America
Bank of America credit cards come with more than just rewards—they’re designed to work smoothly with your everyday banking.
If you already have a BofA account, using their credit cards can help you earn more and manage your finances in one place. Here are the key benefits:
- Preferred Rewards Program: If you have a qualifying Bank of America account with enough balance, you can earn up to 75% more rewards.
- Strong Mobile App and Online Tools allow you to track spending, pay bills, redeem rewards, and manage your card easily.
- Account Integration: You can view and manage your credit card alongside your Bank of America checking, savings, or Merrill investment accounts.
- Customized Rewards Categories: Choose your 3% cash back category based on your top spending, like gas, dining, or online shopping.
- No Penalty APR on Some Cards: Avoid interest rate hikes after a late payment on select cards.
- Reliable Fraud Protection: Get real-time alerts and zero liability for unauthorized transactions.
- Wide Acceptance and Local Support: Use your card anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted and get in-person help at local branches.
How to Apply
Applying for a Bank of America credit card is simple and takes a few minutes if you’re prepared.
Whether you apply online or at a branch, meet the basic requirements and have your info ready. Here’s what you need to know:
- Check Your Eligibility: Depending on the card, you should have a steady income and a fair to good credit score.
- Gather Your Information: Be ready to provide your name, address, Social Security number, income, and employment details.
- Choose the Right Card: Choose the card that fits your spending habits—cash back, travel, student, or balance transfer.
- Apply Online: Go to the Bank of America website, select your card, and complete the application form.
- Apply in Person: If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local Bank of America branch.
- Wait for Approval: Some applications get instant approval, while others may take a few days for review.
- Check Your Mail or Email: If approved, your card should arrive within 7–10 business days.
Best Bank of America Credit Cards
Bank of America offers a variety of credit cards tailored to different needs.
Whether you want cash back, travel rewards, or a way to build credit, here are the top options worth considering:
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
- 3% cash back in a category of your choice (gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement)
- 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on the first $2,500 combined each quarter)
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Option to change your 3% category each month
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
- Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Points can be redeemed for travel-related purchases, including flights, hotels, and car rentals
BankAmericard® Credit Card
- 0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made in the first 60 days
- No annual fee
- No rewards program
- Ideal for large purchases or consolidating high-interest debt
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
- 2 points per $1 on travel and dining
- 1.5 points per $1 on all other purchases
- Up to $100 airline incidental credit annually
- Up to $100 TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry fee credit
- $95 annual fee
- Includes travel insurance and purchase protection
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card
- 3 miles per $1 spent on Alaska Airlines purchases
- 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Free checked bag for you and up to 6 companions on Alaska Airlines flights
- Annual Companion Fare starting at $122 ($99 fare + taxes/fees)
- $95 annual fee
How to Maximize Your Rewards
Once you get your Bank of America credit card, using it strategically can help you earn and save more. Here’s how to make the most of your rewards:
- Join the Preferred Rewards Program: Earn 25%–75% more rewards with a qualifying BofA or Merrill account.
- Use the Right Card for the Right Purchase: Spend in reward categories like gas, dining, or travel to maximize earnings.
- Change Your 3% Category: Update your top cash back category monthly on the Customized Cash Rewards card.
- Redeem Points Strategically: Use rewards for travel, gift cards, or statement credits to get the best value.
- Pay Your Balance in Full: Avoid interest charges to keep your rewards intact.
- Take Advantage of Bonus Offers: Look for limited-time reward boosts in your account or app.
- Use Online Shopping Portals: Earn extra rewards through Bank of America’s portal.
Common Fees and How to Avoid Them
Bank of America credit cards offer useful rewards, but you should be aware of the fees that can reduce your savings.
Here are the most common ones to watch out for:
Common Fees
- Annual Fee: Charged on some cards, especially premium rewards cards.
- Late Payment Fee: Applied when you miss your payment due date.
- Balance Transfer Fee: Usually 3% to 5% of the amount transferred.
- Cash Advance Fee: Charged when you use your card to get cash from an ATM.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: Typically around 3% on international purchases.
- Interest Charges: Added when you don’t pay your balance in full.
How to Avoid These Fees
- Annual Fee: Choose a card with no annual fee if you don’t need extra perks.
- Late Payment Fee: Set up autopay or calendar reminders to pay on time.
- Balance Transfer Fee: Only transfer balances when the savings outweigh the fee.
- Cash Advance Fee: Avoid using your card to withdraw cash.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: Use a card with no foreign transaction fees abroad.
- Interest Charges: Always try to pay your entire balance each month.
Contact Information
You can reach them by phone, online, or by mail if you need help with your credit card or any Bank of America service. Here are the main contact details:
- General Account Services: 800.432.1000
- Credit Card Services: 800.421.2110
- TTY/TDD (Hearing Impaired): 800.288.4408
- Mailing Address: Bank of America, PO Box 25118, Tampa, FL 33622-5118
- Corporate Headquarters: Bank of America Corporate Center, 100 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28255
To Conclude
Bank of America credit cards offer a range of options to fit your spending needs, from cash back to travel rewards.
Knowing how to apply, pick the right card, and use it wisely can help you get the most value.
Take the next step by exploring your options and applying for the card that fits you best.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Terms, fees, and offers may change; always check the official Bank of America website for the most up-to-date information.
