The best Bank of America credit cards in April 2024

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Featured Offer

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Welcome Bonus

60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

60,000 points

Regular APR

20.24% – 27.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Annual Fee

$95

Credit Score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent, Good

Apply Now

On Bank of America's Website

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Best Bank of America credit card

Key takeaways

60K

Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

2X

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Points

If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.

4.4/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best Bank of America credit card

Apply Now

On Bank of America’s Secure Website

Welcome bonus

60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

60,000 points

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

20.24% – 27.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent

Why we picked it

The Bank of America Premium Rewards is an excellent all-purpose card with a hefty welcome bonus: 60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s worth $600 in cash back, gift cards or travel booked through the Bank of America Travel Center. It also offers benefits that make it easy to justify its $95 annual fee, including broad travel and purchase protections you won’t find on many mid-tier credit cards.

+ Pros

• Up to $100 in annual airline incidental fee credits
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Strong travel protections including emergency evacuation and transportation coverage

– Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Requires at least good credit to be considered

Highlights

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 – 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

Best for flat-rate cash back

Key takeaways

1.5%

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases

$200

$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

3.1/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for flat-rate cash back

Apply Now

On Bank of America’s Secure Website

Welcome bonus

$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

$200

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent

Why we picked it

If you prefer the simplicity of one rewards rate on all purchases, the Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards is worth considering. Card holders earn 1.5% cash back everywhere, with no bonus categories to keep track of. For a $0-annual-fee card, it comes with a respectable welcome bonus of $200 after you spend at least $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. New card holders can also take advantage of a 0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (then an 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR).

+ Pros

• Decent welcome bonus and intro APR offer
• $0 annual fee
• No complicated bonus categories to remember

– Cons

• Charges a foreign transaction fee
• No opportunities to earn more rewards with bonus categories
• Must be a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member to maximize rewards

Highlights

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 1.87%-2.62% cash back on every purchase with Preferred Rewards.
• No annual fee.
• No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% – 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Best for choosing your own bonus category

Key takeaways

$200

$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

3%

Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice – now with expanded categories, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

3.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for choosing your own bonus category

Apply Now

On Bank of America’s Secure Website

Welcome bonus

$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

$200

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent

Why we picked it

The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards is a solid option for maximizing rewards if you don’t mind a more hands-on approach. You’ll earn 3% cash back in an eligible category of your choice and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs on up to $2,500 in combined spending per quarter (then you’ll earn 1% back in all categories). Choice categories cover a range of spending types: gas and EV charging stations, online shopping (including cable, internet, phone plans and streaming), dining, travel, drug stores and pharmacies, and home improvement and furnishings. You can change your 3% category each month, so you might select home improvement and furnishings when you’re redoing your kitchen, but switch to travel before you book a summer trip. The card also boasts a welcome bonus of $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening and a 0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (then an 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR). .

+ Pros

• Decent welcome bonus and intro APR offer
• No annual fee
• Ability to earn up to 3% cash back in an eligible category you choose

– Cons

• Charges a foreign transaction fee
• 3% and 2% bonus categories are capped
• Must be a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member to maximize rewards

Highlights

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
• Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishing purchases.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
• No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% – 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Best for travel

Key takeaways

1.5x

Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire.

25K

25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

4/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for travel

Apply Now

On Bank of America’s Secure Website

Welcome bonus

25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

25,000 points

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good/Excellent

Why we picked it

With no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, the Bank of America Travel Rewards is an affordable choice if you want to earn rewards to use for travel or dining. It offers 25,000 online bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. New card holders can save money with a 0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (after the intro APR offer ends, an 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR will apply).

+ Pros

• Welcome bonus worth $250 in travel or dining
• Lengthy 0% intro APR period (then a 18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers)
• No cap on rewards

– Cons

• Must be a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member to maximize rewards
• Redemptions outside of travel or dining offer a poor rate of return

Highlights

• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% – 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card

*

The information for the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best for luxury travel perks

Key takeaways

2X

2X points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases.

1.5X

1.5X points per dollar on all other purchases.

3.3/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for luxury travel perks

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

75,000 points

Annual fee

$550

Regular APR

20.24% – 27.24% variable

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent

Why we picked it

Travelers looking for an upscale credit card should consider the Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite. Yes, it has a premium annual fee of $550. But in return, you’ll get up to $300 in airline incidental fee credits and $150 in lifestyle credits toward video streaming services, food delivery, fitness subscriptions and rideshare services each year. Card holders also receive unlimited Priority Pass airport lounge access, travel protections and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit. The welcome bonus is substantial, too: 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

+ Pros

• Generous welcome bonus of 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
• Priority Pass airport lounge access
• Get up to $550 in travel and lifestyle statement credits

– Cons

• $550 annual fee
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Must be a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member to maximize rewards

Highlights

• Receive 75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Earn up to $300 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually on qualifying transactions and TSA Pre✓®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years
• Earn up to $150 in lifestyle statement credits annually on qualifying rideshare, food delivery, streaming service and fitness transactions at select merchants
• Receive 20% off the cost of airfare when redeeming points through the Bank of America Travel Center
• Enrolled cardholders receive 12-month Priority Pass Select membership to access airport VIP lounges worldwide

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

*

The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best airline card

Key takeaways

3X

Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases.

2X

Earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging, cable, streaming services and local transit including ride share purchases.

1X

Earn unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

4.7/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best airline card

Welcome bonus

Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

60,000 bonus miles

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

20.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent

Why we picked it

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® is ideal for frequent Alaska flyers, offering money-saving benefits on the airline (including a free first checked bag, priority boarding and in-flight discounts). After spending $6,000 on purchases in a card holder year, you can qualify for a companion fare, which allows you to bring a friend along on a paid round-trip Alaska coach flight for $99 (plus taxes and fees from $23). Plus, new card holders can earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days account opening. Plus, an additional 2,500 bonus miles after adding a cardholder as an authorized user in the first 90 days of account opening.

+ Pros

• Free checked bag and priority boarding on Alaska Airlines flights
• 10% rewards bonus with an eligible Bank of America account
• Annual Companion Fare (after meeting spending requirement)

– Cons

• Charges a $95 annual fee
• Flight benefits are only valid on Alaska Airlines
• No 0% introductory APR and may charge an above-average APR

Highlights

• LIMITED TIME ONLINE OFFER—60,000 Bonus Miles!
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now

Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® credit card

Best small-business card

Key takeaways

1.5X

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all purchases everywhere, every time-no matter how much you spend.

4.3/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best small-business card

Apply Now

On Bank of America Small Business New Account’s Secure Website

Welcome bonus

Earn 30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening which can be redeemed for a $300 statement credit towards travel or dining purchases.

30,000 points

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.49% – 28.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent

Why we picked it

The Bank of America Business Advantage Travel Rewards doesn’t charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for budget-conscious business owners who like earning travel rewards. Along with a welcome bonus of 30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening, new card holders qualify for a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first nine billing cycles; after the intro APR offer ends, a variable APR that’s currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.

+ Pros

• $0 annual fee
• Strong welcome bonus offer
• No foreign transaction fees

– Cons

• Intro APR offer is shorter than personal version of the card
• Must be a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member to maximize rewards
• No bonus rewards categories

Highlights

• Earn 30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening which can be redeemed for a $300 statement credit towards travel or dining purchases.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent, or join Preferred Rewards for Business for no fee, and earn up to an unlimited 2.62 points for every $1 spent on all purchases if you have a Bank of America® business checking account and qualify for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors tier.
• No limit to the amount of points you can earn and points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• No annual fee and no international transaction fees.
• Choose how to redeem points for a statement credit to offset travel and dining purchases, travel with no blackout dates at the Bank of America® Travel Center, for cash back or gift cards.
• 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
• Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card

*

The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best small-business airline card

Key takeaways

3X

Earn 3 miles for every dollar spent directly on Alaska Airlines purchases

2X

Earn 2 miles for every dollar spent on eligible gas, shipping and local transit including rideshare purchases

1X

Earn 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases

5/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best small-business airline card

Welcome bonus

Earn 50,000 bonus miles + Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

50,000 bonus miles + Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™

Annual fee

$70 for the company and $25 per card

Regular APR

21.24% – 29.24% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent Credit

Why we picked it

Small-business owners who prefer Alaska Airlines can save money and earn miles from their business expenses with the Alaska Airlines Visa Business. You’ll get a free first checked bag, priority boarding and in-flight discounts. You earn miles on all purchases, and you’ll get a 10% rewards boost if your company has an eligible Bank of America small business account. Frequent flyers who want airport lounge access can use their card to get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership, too.

+ Pros

• Welcome bonus of 50,000 bonus miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
• Free checked bag and priority boarding on Alaska Airlines flights
• Bonus miles on eligible Alaska Airlines, gas, EV charging station, shipping and local transit (including rideshare) purchases

– Cons

• Annual fee of $70 for the company and $25 per card
• Annual companion fare requires spending $6,000 in an anniversary year
• No free airport lounge access

Highlights

• Get 50,000 bonus miles + Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Earn another Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Each year on your credit card account anniversary you’ll receive a companion fare which allows you to book a companion flight from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $6,000 or more on purchases within the anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn 3 miles for every $1 spent directly on Alaska Airlines purchases and 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Save with a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six other guests on the same reservation.
• 20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases when you pay with your card.
• Earn unlimited miles and travel with no blackout dates and no foreign transaction fees.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

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The information for the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best for students

Key takeaways

1.5X

Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases everywhere, every time and no expiration on points.

25,000

25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

3.7/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for students

Welcome bonus

25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

25,000 bonus points

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good/Excellent

Why we picked it

College students who already have a good credit score could do very well with the no annual fee Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students. You can earn a 25,000-point welcome offer after making at least $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening. The welcome offer is worth $250 in statement credits toward travel or dining purchases. The card also doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for students who plan to vacation or study abroad.

+ Pros

• Unlimited rewards
• Welcome bonus
• No annual fee

– Cons

• Requires good credit
• No travel protections
• Redemptions outside of travel or dining offer a poor rate of return

Highlights

• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% – 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
• Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

*

The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best secured card

Key takeaways

3%

Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores or home improvement and furnishings.

2%

Earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs; Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

3%

You’ll earn 3% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter, then earn 1%.

3.1/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best secured card

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

28.24% variable

Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

New to Credit

Why we picked it

The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card offers the opportunity to earn cash back on purchases while you’re working on building your credit. It doesn’t come with a welcome bonus and requires a minimum $200 security deposit, but you’ll earn 3% cash back in one eligible category you choose and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs on up to $2,500 in combined spending per quarter (then you’ll earn 1% back in all categories). Category choices are gas and EV charging stations; online shopping, including cable, internet, phone plans and streaming; dining; travel; drug stores and pharmacies; or home improvement and furnishings. And with responsible use, you could increase your credit score over time.

+ Pros

• Ability to qualify with less-than-good credit
• Earn up to 3% cash back in an eligible category you choose
• $0 annual fee

– Cons

• No welcome bonus or intro APR offer
• Charges a foreign transaction fee
• Requires a security deposit of at least $200

Highlights

• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement & furnishings
• Earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
• Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
• You’ll earn 3% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter, then earn 1%
• A minimum refundable security deposit of $200 (maximum of $5,000) is required to open this account
• Now, you can access your FICO® Score updated monthly for free, within your Mobile Banking app or in Online Banking
• No annual fee

Our picks at a glance

	Annual fee	Welcome bonus	Best for	Notable benefit
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card	$95	60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening	Overall Bank of America credit card	Up to $100 in airline incidental fee statement credits each year
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card	$0	$200 after you spend at least $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening	Flat-rate cash back	0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (then an 18.24% - 28.24% variable APR)
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card	$0	$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening	Choosing your own bonus category	Up to 3% cash back in eligible category you choose
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card	$0	25,000 online bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening	Travel	No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card * The information for the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	$550	75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening	Luxury travel perks	Airport lounge access and travel statement credits
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card * The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	$95	60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days account opening. Plus, an additional 2,500 bonus miles after adding a cardholder as an authorized user in the first 90 days of account opening	Airlines	Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Alaska flights
Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® credit card	$0	30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening	Small businesses	Travel protections with no annual fee
Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card * The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	$70 for the company and $25 per card	50,000 bonus miles and Alaska's Famous Companion Fare after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening	Airline card for small businesses	Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Alaska flights
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students * The information for the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	$0	25,000-point welcome offer after making at least $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening	Students	No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card * The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	$0	None	Secured card	You choose your own eligible 3% bonus category

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Why get a Bank of America credit card?

• To earn a welcome bonus and rewards for everyday spending: Most of the best Bank of America credit cards offer an initial bonus for opening the card and meeting a spending requirement, plus ongoing rewards for using the card for purchases. Choosing a Bank of America card that fits your spending habits, especially if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, can put a lot of cash back, points or miles in your pocket.
• To take advantage of benefits and protections: Bank of America credit card benefits aren’t always as flashy as other issuers’, but a handful — including the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card — come with strong travel insurance and purchase coverage that can save the day if things go awry.
• To get financial breathing room with a 0% intro APR offer: Many Bank of America cards come with an introductory 0% APR on purchases, balance transfers or both. Taking advantage of these offers can help you save money on interest whether you’re looking to finance a larger purchase or consolidate high-interest debt from a different issuer’s cards.
• To build your credit score: Not all issuers offer student or secured credit cards, but Bank of America does. Whether you’re in college or rebuilding your credit, you’ve got options.

Benefits and features of Bank of America credit cards

As is common across issuers, Bank of America’s credit cards come with a $0 liability guarantee, which means you’re covered for fraudulent transactions as long as you report them promptly and haven’t shared your personal or account details with anyone. Additionally, if you have a personal Bank of America credit card, you have monthly access to a free FICO score through TransUnion.

Some Bank of America cards offer additional benefits, among them travel and purchase protections, 0% introductory APRs and welcome bonus offers. For instance, the best Bank of America credit card in our rankings is the Bank of America Premium Rewards, which is loaded with travel insurance and purchase coverage.

What credit limit can I get with a Bank of America credit card?

Your credit limit will depend on your credit score, income and other factors. Cards may have a minimum credit limit. For instance, the Bank of America Premium Rewards promises a limit of at least $1,500 to all approved applicants. With the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card, your credit limit will depend in part on your security deposit, which may range from $200 to $5,000.

Some card holders can get a credit limit increase online. Card holders who qualify will see “Request a credit line increase” as an option in the card details section of their account summary. If you don’t see this option, you can call the number on the back of your card to ask about an increase.

What are the interest rates on Bank of America credit cards?

The interest rate on your Bank of America credit card may depend on the card, your credit profile when you open your account and the prime rate. The average credit card APR for accounts with a balance was 22.75% in November 2023 according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, but your rate may be higher or lower.

How to apply for Bank of America credit cards

The simplest way to apply for a credit card with Bank of America is online, but you can also do so by phone by calling 800-932-2775 or in person by visiting a branch location. You should have your basic personal information ready, including your full name, address, phone number, email address, Social Security number, employment information and citizenship status.

Do Bank of America credit cards have good rewards?

Many Bank of America cards offer rewards with consistent values — whether it’s cash back (a certain percentage of each dollar you spend) or points that are worth 1 cent each when you redeem them for travel or dining purchases.

This is convenient if you want simple rewards, but isn’t a path to top rewards value. BoA doesn’t have airline or hotel transfer partners, so it has a disadvantage compared with cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or The Platinum Card® from American Express * The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . With those cards, you may be able to get more value from your rewards by redeeming them for reward travel.

The travel bloggers you see in Emirates first class or in overwater bungalows in the Maldives probably aren’t redeeming Bank of America points or cash back. It’s more likely they’re focusing on the likes of Chase Travel℠, American Express Membership Rewards®, Citi ThankYou® points or Capital One miles.

BoA also issues co-branded cards, such as the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature®, which earns Alaska Airlines miles that can be worth more than 1 cent each, depending on how you redeem them.

How do I redeem my Bank of America credit card rewards?

Redemption options can vary by card, so check the fine print. For example, you can redeem cash back from either the Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card or Customized Cash Rewards credit card for a statement credit, deposit into a Bank of America checking or savings account or credit to a qualifying Merrill account.

But the Unlimited Cash Rewards card also lets you redeem for Amazon and PayPal spending, while Customized Cash offers checks. With co-branded cards such as the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature®, you can redeem points or miles in accordance with the loyalty program’s rules.

Points-earning cards have a 2,500-point minimum redemption threshold, and some cash back cards have a $25 minimum for certain redemption options.

Can you combine points on Bank of America credit cards?

If you have multiple points-earning Bank of America credit cards, you can combine your points for redemption. You can also combine your cash back rewards across cash back cards. You’ll need to call the number on the back of your card to request this, and you cannot mix points and cash back, according to a Bank of America spokesperson.

How can you maximize rewards from Bank of America credit cards?

Since Bank of America doesn’t have airline or hotel transfer partners, maximizing rewards is fairly simple: use your card for purchases in bonus rewards categories.

With the Bank of America Premium Rewards, for example, this means spending on travel and dining, which earns 2 points per dollar. Then, when you redeem your rewards, be sure your redemption option gives you a value of 1 cent per point.

Where Bank of America does shine is in rewarding its most loyal customers with accelerated rewards rates. If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, the equation changes.

What is the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program?

Bank of America Preferred Rewards offers benefits and discounts to eligible customers who have money deposited with Bank of America or invested with Merrill (Bank of America’s investing and wealth management division). Program perks include reduced rates on certain loans, waived fees on eligible banking services and rewards bonuses of 25% to 75% on earnings from eligible Bank of America credit cards. Co-branded cards are not eligible for Preferred Rewards.

The credit card rewards bonus depends on your Preferred Rewards tier, which in turn, is based on your total deposits and investments with qualified Bank of America and Merrill accounts. You can qualify for Preferred Rewards if your three-month average daily balance across your eligible accounts together is at least $20,000, with tiers depending on your balance as follows:

• Gold (25% credit card rewards bonus): At least $20,000
• Platinum (50% bonus): At least $50,000
• Platinum Honors (75% bonus): At least $100,000
• Diamond (75% bonus): At least $1 million
• Diamond Honors (75% bonus): At least $10 million

For example, suppose you have the Bank of America Premium Rewards, which earns 2 points per dollar on travel and dining and 1.5 points per dollar on other purchases. If you are in the Preferred Rewards Platinum tier, you’ll earn 50% bonus rewards on your eligible credit card spending — so 3 points per dollar on travel and dining, and 2.25 points per dollar on everything else.

Bank of America offers a similar Preferred Rewards for Business program with slightly different tiers and benefits. Consumers with small-business credit cards can also earn 25% to 75% more credit card rewards depending on their tier level.

Methodology

Our money and data analytics teams evaluated over 20 Bank of America credit cards. We then narrowed down our list of the best Bank of America cards by giving them a star rating out of five, based on the following factors and our editorial judgment:

Sign-up bonus value (25%)

Many Bank of America credit cards offer bonus cash back, points or miles to consumers who spend a certain amount in their first months with the card. We calculated how much those bonuses are worth using points valuations from The Points Guy, and boosted cards that offer more value.

Rewards value (25%)

Many Bank of America credit cards earn rewards, but not all of their rewards have the same value. We used spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and estimates of rewards values from The Points Guy to determine which cards dole out the best rewards value.

Benefits (20%)

Cards that offer benefits such as purchase protection, extended warranty and a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers received a boost.

Annual fee (20%)

Credit cards with no or low annual fees received a boost compared to cards that charge higher annual fees.

Foreign transaction fee (5%)

Cards with no foreign transaction fee received the largest advantage.

Annual credits/bonuses (5%)

Credit cards that come with credits and bonuses for spending in certain categories received a boost.

What didn’t make the cut

The best Bank of America credit cards that made our list all excel in certain categories, but they’re not the only cards available from the issuer. The cards mentioned below are also solid options for some other types of consumers or situations, but fell a bit short compared to our top picks:

• Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card: This card offers up to 3% cash back, plus a strong welcome bonus with no annual fee. But the Bank of America Business Advantage Travel Rewards won out for not charging foreign transaction fees.
• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students: This card also offers up to 3% cash back and a substantial welcome bonus for a student credit card, but it lost points for having a foreign transaction fee.
• Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card: This card’s straightforward earning structure of 1.5% cash back on all purchases is appealing to small-business owners who prefer simplicity. But it’s not a good card to use for international purchases due to its foreign transaction fee.
• BankAmericard® credit card * The information for the BankAmericard® credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : If saving money on interest is your top priority, it’s hard to go wrong with this card’s introductory APR offer: 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days of opening your account; after the intro APR offer ends, a variable APR that's currently 16.24% - 26.24% will apply. However, it doesn’t earn rewards.
• Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® Secured Credit Card * The information for the Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : If you’re a small business owner looking to build your business credit, this card is worth considering. It earns 1.5% cash back on all purchases, but the minimum security deposit of $1,000 is higher than what’s required on Bank of America’s personal secured cards.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by CNN Underscored Money: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card * The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card * The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card * The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card * The information for the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , The Platinum Card® from American Express * The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students, BankAmericard® credit card * The information for the BankAmericard® credit card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. and Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® Secured Credit Card * The information for the Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.