Rewards & next steps

How to Apply for the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card

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

If the flat-rate, no-fee structure fits how you spend and travel, applying is a straightforward online process — but it's worth reviewing your own credit profile first, since this card's approval odds lean toward applicants with excellent credit. Below is a general outline of what the application process typically involves; the exact steps and current offer terms should always be confirmed on Bank of America's own site before you apply.

Because welcome bonuses, APR ranges, and even the annual fee structure can change, treat the numbers cited in this guide as a snapshot verified for 2025-2026 rather than a permanent guarantee. Cross-check the live offer on the issuer's page at the time you actually submit an application.

Step by step

1. Check your credit profile first: Since approval tends to favor applicants with excellent credit (around 750+), pull your current score before applying. A hard inquiry from a denied application can ding your score without the payoff of a new card.
2. Compare the current offer against alternatives: Confirm the live welcome bonus, APR, and any Preferred Rewards eligibility on Bank of America's own product page, and weigh it against other no-annual-fee travel cards you may qualify for.
3. Complete the online application: The application asks for standard identity, income, and employment information. Have your Social Security number, annual income, and housing payment details on hand to speed up the process.
4. Meet the minimum spend for the welcome bonus: If approved, plan your spending so you hit the required purchase threshold within the first 90 days — missing the window means forfeiting the bonus entirely.

Tips & mistakes to avoid

• Enroll in Bank of America Preferred Rewards if you already bank with Bank of America or Merrill; the points boost (25%-75%) is free and meaningfully increases your effective earn rate.
• Don't apply just for the welcome bonus if your credit is borderline — a denial still shows up as a hard inquiry, and this card's approval bar skews toward excellent credit.
• Use the card for everyday spending you'd make anyway rather than trying to hit the bonus threshold with unnecessary purchases, since the flat 1.5x rate rewards consistent use over time.
• Redeem points as a statement credit against travel or dining purchases you've already made for the best value (about 1 cent per point) rather than letting them sit unused.

FAQ

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Yes, typically a small, temporary amount. Applying triggers a hard inquiry, which can cause a minor, short-term dip in your credit score regardless of whether you're approved.

Can I get approved with good (not excellent) credit?

It's possible, since income, debt levels, and overall credit history also matter, but published data suggests approval is far more likely for applicants with scores around 750 or higher.

How long does the application decision take?

Many online applications return an instant decision, though some applications require additional review and can take longer. Check the issuer's site for the most current process details.

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.