skip navigation linksBank of AmericaAlaska Airlines
Contact Us


Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Bank of America credit cards.

Credit cards

Credit card payments and statements

Credit card security

Cardholder Security Plan€

Automatic Bill Payment




Credit cards

Can I access my Bank of America credit card account information online?
Yes, at no additional charge. With this service, you can:

  • Get a summary of your current account status, including balance, available credit and information on when your next payment is due
  • Request up to five months of detailed account information
  • Download transactions for use with financial management software
  • Make a payment online
  • Contact customer service

Back to top Back to top

How can I find out the status of my credit card application?
If you applied for a Bank of America credit card online, check your application status online.
You can also check the status of your application by calling us at 1.800.242.5722.

Back to top Back to top

When will I receive my card?
You'll receive your card within 10 business days upon approval.

Back to top Back to top

What's an annual percentage rate (APR)?
The APR is the cost of credit on a yearly basis expressed as a percentage. It reflects interest rate plus any finance charges.

Back to top Back to top

What's a periodic rate?
The periodic rate is a rate of finance charge that is or may be imposed by a creditor on a balance for a day, week, month or any subdivision of a year.

Back to top Back to top

What's a prime rate?
The prime rate is a fluctuating rate of interest determined by an individual bank to be its "prime rate". The Wall Street Journal's published prime rate is often used as the index in a variable credit line.

Back to top Back to top

Can I activate my new credit card online?
Yes. Activate your new card now.

Back to top Back to top

Who's authorized to activate my new credit card online?
Only the primary cardholder can activate the card online. The primary cardholder is the person whose name appears first on the account.

Back to top Back to top

What's the Mini Card?
The Mini Card is a durable 1 1/2" X 2 1/2" companion card to your full-size Bank of America credit card. It works just like your full-size card and has the same account number, expiration date and benefits as your full-size card. The Mini Card attaches easily to your key ring or anywhere that is most convenient to you.

Back to top Back to top

Is the Mini Card feature available with every Bank of America credit card?
The Mini Card feature is available on most Bank of America credit cards. The Mini Card feature is currently not available with Anne Geddes Visa Gold, Hawaiian Airlines Visa and Asiana Visa credit cards. The Mini Card feature will be added to these cards soon.

Back to top Back to top

How can I get the Mini Card?
If you already have a Bank of America credit card, call 1.800.432.1000 to request or to learn more about the Mini Card. When you're approved for a Bank of America credit card, you'll automatically receive a Mini Card unless you choose not to. Apply for a credit card now.

Back to top Back to top

Where can I use my Mini Card?
You can use your Mini Card in most card-swipe readers at your favorite shopping locations wherever Visa credit cards are accepted. It's a good idea, however, to carry your full-size card as well for ATMs or gas pumps that require full card insertion.

Back to top Back to top

Will my Mini Card earn mileage or rewards points?
If your full-size card earns mileage or rewards points, so will your Mini Card.

Back to top Back to top

What if I lose my Mini Card?
Your Mini Card carries all the same benefits as your full-size card, including Total Security Protection. You'll have full protection against unauthorized use if your card is ever lost or stolen.

Back to top Back to top

How can I request a Mini Card cover?
Visit www.bankofamerica.com/minicover to request a complimentary leather card cover, specifically designed to hold your Mini Card. You will be asked to enter a valid Bank of America Credit Card or Check Card account number and your mailing address.

Back to top Back to top

How long will it take for my Mini Card cover to arrive?
You should receive your Mini Card cover within 2 - 3 weeks.

Back to top Back to top

Credit card payments and statements

How can I make a payment to my credit card?
You have several options to make a payment to your credit card bill:

  • Online Banking. If you have a Bank of America checking and/or savings account, you can log in to Online Banking to make a single payment. Online Banking also allows you to set up automatic payments.
  • Credit Card Access. If you have a personal Bank of America credit card and don't have a Bank of America checking or savings account, you can view and pay your credit card bill online through Credit Card Access. You can make a single payment from any regular checking account or a money market account with check-writing privileges.
  • U.S. Mail. You can mail your payment to:

           Bank of America
           PO Box 53132
           Phoenix, AZ 85072

  • Express/Overnight U.S. Mail. You can mail your payment to:

           Bank of America
           5029 E Sunrise Drive
           Suite #101
           Phoenix, AZ 85044

  • Banking center. You can make payments at any Bank of America banking center.

Back to top Back to top

How can I get a copy of my credit card statement?
Much of the information contained on your statement is available online in a printable version. You can also call us at 1.800.432.1000 to request a copy of your statement.

Back to top Back to top

How can I check my credit card account balance?
For fast and convenient self-service, view your account balance online at no additional charge. With this service, you can:

  • Get a summary of your current account status, including balance, available credit and information on when your next payment is due
  • Request up to five months of detailed account information
  • Download transactions for use with financial management software
  • Make a payment online
  • Contact customer service

You can also call us at 1.800.432.1000 .

Back to top Back to top

How can I change my address or phone number?
You can change your address, phone number and e-mail address online through the customer service menu in Online Banking. To change your address, phone number and e-mail address by mail, follow the instructions on the back of your statement.

Back to top Back to top

When can I expect my address or phone number to be updated?
Generally, you can expect to have your information updated within 24 hours from the time you submit your request.

Back to top Back to top

If I make my payment online, when will my credit card payment post to my account?

  • If you have a Bank of America checking and/or savings account, funds transferred as a payment to a personal credit card account before 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, including weekends and holidays, will be credited with the date the payment is made. However, updates to account balances and funds availability may take up to two bank business days.
  • If you have a personal Bank of America credit card and don't have a checking or savings account, your payment will be requested as an electronic transfer within 24 hours from the time you submit it online. A debit will appear on your checking account and on your credit card statement online within two business days.

Back to top Back to top

What are e-Bills?
e-Bills are electronic versions of your paper bills you can receive through Online Banking.

Back to top Back to top

Can I stop receiving my paper statement?
Yes. If you're enrolled in Online Banking and have chosen to receive an e-Bill for your credit card account, the e-Bill will present simple instructions on how to stop receiving paper statements by mail.

Back to top Back to top

When will my paper statements stop coming in the mail?
Once you agree to stop receiving your paper statements, two more statements will be sent to you in the mail.

Back to top Back to top

How will I know my e-Bill is ready for viewing?
Every time an e-Bill is presented on your account, you'll receive an e-mail notice that your e-Bill is available to view online. The notice will be sent to the external e-mail address you provided during enrollment and includes a "Sign In to Online Banking" button. After clicking that button, enter your ID and passcode to view and pay your bill online.

Back to top Back to top

How long will my statement be available for viewing?
You can view e-Bill statements in Online Banking for six months.

Back to top Back to top

How can I cancel my e-Bill and start receiving paper statements again?
Sign in to Online Banking and follow the instructions to cancel e-Bill service. You can also contact customer service at one of the numbers below.

  • Within the U.S., call 1.800.432.1000
  • If you're calling from outside the U.S., dial the AT&T Direct access code for the country you're in and dial 1.888.801.3723. You can also call us collect at 1.757.677.4701.

Back to top Back to top

If I've chosen to receive e-Bills, how can I get convenience checks?
Sign in to Online Banking and choose the Customer Service tab to order convenience checks.

Back to top Back to top

Credit card security

Is my credit card information safe and secure on the Internet?
Yes. Learn more about security.

Back to top Back to top

Can anyone else see my account information?
No. Only you can access it using your personal ID and passcode. Unless you share your ID and password, no one can access your account information online.

It's extremely important that you treat your online passcode as you treat your ATM PIN. Do not share your passcode with anyone unless you want them to have access to your accounts. Memorize it. Don't write it down.

Back to top Back to top

What can I do to protect my account information?
Protect your ID and passcode. Make sure no one can see your passcode as you sign on and sign off. Total Security Protection™ represents a new standard in credit and Check Card security. Verified by Visa™ gives you added security for your online purchases by allowing you to passcode-protect any Bank of America Visa credit card. Also, you can request a Photo Security Check Card or Photo Security Credit Card.

These few tips can help ensure the privacy of your account information:

  • Do not write your ID or passcode in the same place or leave those numbers where someone sitting at your computer can see them.
  • You should never reveal your online Passcode to anyone. No Bank of America representative will ever ask you for your online passcode.
  • Notify Bank of America immediately if you notice any unusual account activity.
  • Keep all documents that include your account information in a secure location, including monthly account statements and especially your online passcode.

Back to top Back to top

What if I think my credit card number is being fraudulently used?
Many times a single unauthorized charge is found to be a merchant error. Simply contacting the merchant might resolve the error quickly. However, if you think your credit card number is being fraudulently used, call customer service at 1.800.848.6090 as soon as possible. If you're calling from outside the U.S., call us collect at 1.757.677.4701. We'll cancel your card and issue a replacement immediately. You won't be liable for any unauthorized purchases or withdrawals from your account when you notify us promptly. If it's found that previous transactions were also fraudulent, you will not be liable for any of those purchases.

Back to top Back to top

What's the claims process for fraudulent or unauthorized use?
In order to preserve your rights, we must receive a written notification from you within 60 days after Bank of America mailed you the first bill containing the error. This written request must include your signature. In your letter to us, document your contact with the merchant and include your name, address, account number, a description of the unauthorized charge(s) and copies of any documents supporting your position. Fax us at 1.800.290.9217 or mail your request to:

Bank of America
Consumer Claims Department
PO Box 1390
Norfolk, VA. 23501-1390

Back to top Back to top

What do I do if I don't recognize the merchant listed on my statement?
Some merchants may bill under a name other than their operating name or in a different state. A copy of the sales slip may assist you in recognizing the charge as one that you authorized. If you still have questions about the transaction, please contact the merchant directly.

Back to top Back to top

What's a credit card dispute?
A credit card dispute occurs when you question a particular transaction that you may believe is an error. Examples may include:

  • Charges that list the wrong date or amount
  • Duplicate charges
  • Charges for goods and services you didn't accept or weren't delivered as agreed
  • Failure to post credits, such as returns
  • Charges for which you ask for an explanation or written proof of purchase

You can submit a credit card dispute to us online. We'll research the transaction and contact you with a resolution. When you dispute a credit card transaction, no fees or interest will be incurred on the item. If a transaction has been posted to your account in error, we'll correct your account. If the transaction has not been posted in error, we'll inform you and any interest or fees occurring during the period will be charged to your account.

Note: Unauthorized transactions cannot be processed over the phone or online. We must have your signature before processing. See the process for claiming fraudulent or unauthorized use of your card.

Back to top Back to top

What if my credit card is lost or stolen?
If your card is lost or stolen, you should immediately report this to Bank of America and notify all of the participating merchants with whom you've set up automatic bill payments. Once Bank of America issues you a new card, you'll need to reestablish automatic bill payments with your new card at the participating merchants.

  • Credit cards. Please call us at 1.800.848.6090 as soon as you discover your credit card is missing. If you're calling from outside the U.S., call us collect at 1.757.677.4701. We'll cancel your card and issue a replacement immediately. You won't be liable for any unauthorized purchases or withdrawals from your account when you notify us promptly.


  • Check Cards. Please call the number for your area below as soon as you discover your Check Card is missing:

           California: 1.800.622.8731
           Idaho/Washington: 1.800.442.6680
           Oregon: 1.800.933.6262
           All other states: 1.800.432.1000

Back to top Back to top

How can I prevent unauthorized use of my card on the Internet?
Verified by Visa provides a way to password-protect credit card and Check Card usage on the Internet. Simply register your Bank of America credit card or Check Card and choose a password. Your password will then be required when you use your card to make Internet purchases at participating merchants. The password requirement prevents unauthorized usage of your credit card or Check Card on the Internet, giving you more confidence about making secure purchases online.

Back to top Back to top

What's Total Security Protection?
Total Security Protection™ represents a new standard in credit and Check Card security, giving you greater defense against theft, loss or unauthorized use, even if you use your card online. It's automatically available for free on all Bank of America consumer credit and Check Cards.

Back to top Back to top

If my card is lost or stolen, am I responsible for $50 of the unauthorized charges?
No. Bank of America offers Zero Liability if your card is ever lost or stolen. You may not be responsible for unauthorized card transactions if they're reported promptly.

Back to top Back to top

How long must I wait for reimbursement of unauthorized charges?
If your card is lost or stolen, we guarantee credit to your account for unauthorized transactions by the end of the next business day (claim is subject to verification and dollar limit).

Back to top Back to top

Do I need to sign up for Total Security Protection? Is there a charge for this service?
No. Total Security Protection is automatic and free on all Bank of America consumer credit and Check Cards.

Back to top Back to top

When I use my credit card online, am I still covered by Total Security Protection?
Yes. Total Security Protection covers all Bank of America consumer credit and Check Cards, even if you're using your card online.

Back to top Back to top

Cardholder Security Plan

What's the Cardholder Security Plan?
The Cardholder Security Plan is an optional plan that can credit the minimum payment due on your credit card account when you are unable to.

Back to top Back to top

Am I already enrolled in the Cardholder Security Plan?
To find out if you're already enrolled in the Cardholder Security Plan, call us toll free at 1.888.668.6938 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time.

Back to top Back to top

If I already have a card, can I still sign up for the Cardholder Security Plan?
Yes. To enroll, call us at 1.888.668.6938 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time.

Back to top Back to top

How do I activate a benefit under the Cardholder Security Plan?
To activate a benefit, call us at 1.888.668.6938 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Within 15 days of your request, we'll send you your activation forms requesting proof of the loss. Upon receipt of the proof-of-loss form(s), we'll notify you of your eligibility and when benefits will begin.

Back to top Back to top

What information do I need to provide when I call to activate a benefit?
When calling to activate a benefit, have the following information available:

  • Personal information including your name, address, telephone number;
  • Your protected credit card account number;
  • The nature of your loss and a brief description of how it occurred; and,
  • The date the loss occurred.

Back to top Back to top

How long do benefits last?
The maximum number of months for disability, involuntary unemployment or unpaid family leave of absence benefits is 12. To continue your benefits, each month you'll be required to provide us with completed proof-of-loss forms and to meet the qualifications outlined in the enclosed addendum to your cardholder agreement.

Back to top Back to top

Can I still use my Bank of America credit card while I'm receiving benefits?
Yes. You may continue to use your Bank of America credit card, up to your credit limit, while you're receiving benefits. However, charges added to your account after your date of loss will not be included in the monthly benefit amount.

While we review your request for benefit activation and during the time you're completing the required forms, you must continue to pay at least the minimum payment due on your protected account. We'll notify you when your benefits are activated by mail and will make them retroactive to your date of loss. If the benefit amount is less than the new balance on your protected account statement, the payment of the excess minimum monthly payment due will be your responsibility.

Back to top Back to top

What's the cost of the Cardholder Security Plan?
The fee for the Cardholder Security Plan is stated in your certificate of enrollment. If the fee changes, we'll give you at least 45 days' advance notice. When you have no outstanding monthly balance, there's no charge.

Back to top Back to top

Who do I contact for questions or to activate a benefit?
For questions or benefit activation, please call us toll free at 1.888.668.6938 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time.

Back to top Back to top

What if I decide I don't want the Cardholder Security Plan?
This plan includes a 30-day review period. If, upon receiving your certificate of enrollment, you decide that you don't want to keep the protection, you may return the certificate of enrollment within 30 days for a full refund of any program fees billed to your protected account.

Back to top Back to top

When does my protection begin?
Your protection begins on the effective date shown on the certificate of enrollment. Please read the enclosed addendum to your cardholder agreement for complete information about your protection and keep it in a safe place with your other important papers.

Back to top Back to top

Automatic Bill Payment

How is Automatic Bill Payment different from paying with direct debit?
With direct debit you provide merchants with your checking account number and authorize them to directly access and take money out of your checking account. With Automatic Bill Payment, you provide merchants with your credit card account number or your Check Card number. By using your Bank of America credit card or Check Card, you authorize merchants to charge your account at agreed-upon intervals. Similar to making purchases at retail stores, you receive the same protection from fraudulent usage. If an unauthorized charge appears on your statement, you aren't liable as long as you notify us promptly.

Back to top Back to top

Are only new Bank of America credit cards or Check Cards eligible for this service?
No. Your current Bank of America-issued credit card or Check Card is eligible for this service.

Back to top Back to top

How much does Automatic Bill Payment cost?
Neither Bank of America nor most merchants with whom you're arranging Automatic Bill Payment charge a fee for this service. However, you'll need to review the terms and conditions of each merchant's site to determine if there are any fees or restrictions associated with setting up Automatic Bill Payment.

Back to top Back to top

What information will the merchant request?
The merchant will need your account number from the front of your Bank of America credit card or Check Card. They'll also need the expiration date, the dollar amount they're authorized to automatically charge, and the specific date you wish to be charged. Some merchants require additional information, such as a signature. Contact participating merchants for further information on individual requirements.

Back to top Back to top

What obligation do I have when I set up Automatic Bill Payment?
When you set up an Automatic Bill Payment account with a participating merchant, the agreement is between you and the merchant. You'll need to communicate card number changes, expiration date changes and account closures to the merchants with whom you have Automatic Bill Payment established.

Back to top Back to top

When will payment charges appear on my account?
Payment charges will appear on your monthly credit card or checking account statement. If you use Bank of America Online Banking, payment charges will appear there as well. Also, many merchants allow you to view your transaction history on their Web sites. You'll need to check with your service provider to see if they offer this service.

Back to top Back to top

Who do I call if I have questions about a payment?
If you have questions about a payment, please contact the participating merchant. You and the merchant schedule charges to occur at a predetermined time when you establish Automatic Bill Payment. If a payment was made without your authorization, or for a different amount, it's important that you also contact us to preserve your rights.

Back to top Back to top

How can I cancel Automatic Bill Payment?
If you want to cancel your service, please contact the participating merchant and follow the instructions provided on the merchant Web site or contact the merchant by phone.

Back to top Back to top

Can I place a stop payment on my card?
You may stop a payment by contacting the participating merchant and by contacting us at the telephone number shown on your periodic statement. To make sure we have time to process your request, you should contact us at least three business days before the scheduled date of the payment.

Back to top Back to top

What happens when my Bank of America credit card or Check Card expires?
If your card expires, in order to avoid interruption of Automatic Bill Payment, you'll need to provide the new expiration date to participating merchants with whom you have set up the service. In many cases, the merchant may proactively prompt you for the information.

Back to top Back to top

What happens if I cancel my Bank of America credit card or Check Card and get a new one with a different number?
Upon receiving your new card, you must contact each merchant with whom you have an Automatic Bill Payment relationship to update your service.

Back to top Back to top