Rewards & next steps

How to Apply for the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Card

★Here's how to get the most from this card. Follow the steps below, then apply on the issuer's official site.

Applying for the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card is done entirely online and typically takes a few minutes if you have your personal and financial information on hand. Below is a general walkthrough of what to expect — always complete the actual application on Bank of America's official site rather than a third-party page.

Before you start, it helps to know roughly where your credit stands, since approval odds improve substantially with good to excellent credit, and to think ahead about which bonus category you'd choose first, since you'll be asked to set one shortly after opening the account.

Step by step

1. Check your credit standing: Review your credit score and report before applying. This card is generally targeted at applicants with good to excellent credit, so knowing where you stand helps set realistic expectations.
2. Gather your information: Have your Social Security number, income, employment details, and current address ready, since the online application will ask for all of them in one sitting.
3. Submit the application on Bank of America's site: Go to Bank of America's official card page, complete the application form, and review the current annual fee, APR, and bonus terms shown at the time you apply, since offers can change.
4. Choose your bonus category: After approval, log into your account to select your 3% (6% in year one) bonus category — pick the one that matches where you spend the most right now.
5. Enroll in Preferred Rewards if eligible: If you already bank with Bank of America or Merrill, check whether you qualify for Preferred Rewards, which can boost your cash-back rate above the standard tier.

Tips & mistakes to avoid

• Match your bonus category to your single biggest recurring expense (gas, online shopping, or dining, for example) rather than switching it every month, since consistency is easier to track against the quarterly cap.
• Pay your statement balance in full each month — the intro 0% APR is useful for a large purchase or balance transfer, but the variable APR that follows can erode the value of the cash back if a balance carries over.
• Keep an eye on your quarterly spending in the bonus category and groceries so you know when you'll hit the $2,500 combined cap and drop to the 1% base rate.
• If you already have a Bank of America checking or savings relationship, look into Preferred Rewards enrollment before applying, since it can materially raise your effective cash-back rate.

FAQ

Will applying for this card hurt my credit score?

Yes, in the short term — a credit card application typically triggers a hard inquiry, which can cause a small, temporary dip in your credit score, similar to most other credit card applications.

How long does it take to get a decision?

Many applicants receive an instant decision online, though some applications require additional review and can take longer, generally within a few business days.

Can I switch my bonus category after I've already picked one?

Yes, Bank of America allows you to change your chosen 3% category once per calendar month through your online account.

Advertiser disclosure: general information only, not financial advice. We are an independent publisher, not a card issuer or lender. Confirm current terms on the issuer's official site.