Wells Fargo vs Bank of America: Which One is Better For You?
Contents
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overview
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Checking Accounts
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Comparison of Savings Accounts
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: CDs
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overdraft Fees and Penalties
- Pros and Cons of Bank of America
- Pros and Cons of Wells Fargo
- Conclusion
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overview
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Checking Accounts
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Comparison of Savings Accounts
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: CDs
- Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overdraft Fees and Penalties
- Pros and Cons of Bank of America
- Pros and Cons of Wells Fargo
- Conclusion

Bank of America and Wells Fargo are two of the largest and most well-known financial institutions in the United States. Both banks offer customer-focused services, competitive rates, and reasonable fees. However, there are some distinct differences between them.
Which bank is better—Bank of America or Wells Fargo? Let’s dive deeper into this comparison to find the answer.
Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overview
The general characteristics of these financial institutions will be a solid foundation for analysis and determining a champion.
Wells Fargo
A trailblazer in the US financial sector, with a history spanning nearly two centuries.
Assets | $244.98 trillion |
---|---|
Year of Foundation | 1852 |
Branches | Nearly 4,300 |
ATMs | 12,000 |
Customer Service | 24/7 online |
Better Business Bureau Rating | F |
A reliable financial institution with numerous programs catering to diverse user needs, from regular depositors to businesses. However, there are somewhat better alternatives for businesses in some cases.
Bank of America
A powerful player in the U.S. financial sector that has consistently strengthened its market position over time, creating new and valuable offerings for diverse audiences. Here are some interesting facts about the institution:
Assets | $3.324 trillion |
---|---|
Year of Foundation | 1904 |
Branches | 3,800 |
ATMs | Approximately 15,000 |
Customer Service | Weekdays: 8 a.m.–11 p.m. ET; Saturdays: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET; Sundays: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET |
Better Business Bureau Rating | A |
A versatile financial institution capable of meeting the needs of all customer categories. Is it better than Wells Fargo? The next sections of the comparison reveal the answer.
Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Checking Accounts
Let’s start the comparison of Bank of America vs. Wells Fargo with checking accounts, which are essential for all types of customers. Here’s how the available offerings from both banks look:
Feature | Bank of America | Wells Fargo |
---|---|---|
Monthly Maintenance Fee | $0 for eligible students under 25 | $10, with options to waive |
Minimum Balance | None | $500 daily deposit balance, which helps avoid the monthly maintenance fee |
Free ATM Network | 15,000 ATMs | 12,000 ATMs |
Overdraft Fee | None | $35 (max of 3 per day) |
Minimum Deposit to Opening | $25 | $25 |
Annual Percentage Yield (APY) | None | N/A |
Certain offers may be subject to varying terms, rates, and fees. The table above provides a general overview.
Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Comparison of Savings Accounts
Here is a brief summary and comparison to help you determine which bank is better for saving money: Bank of America or Wells Fargo:
Feature | Wells Fargo | Bank of America |
---|---|---|
Annual Percentage Yield (APY) | 0.01% APY | 0.01% in the standard package |
Monthly Fee | $5 per month, with options to waive | $8 per month, with options to waive |
Excessive Transactions Fee | Max of six withdrawals per month without incurring a fee. | $10 for exceeding six withdrawals |
Offer a checking account? | Yes | Yes |
Minimum Balance to Open | $25 | $100 |
Maximum Transactions | Limit of 6 transactions without fees | Limit of 6 transactions without fees |
Overdraft Fees | Available but requires linking the savings account to a checking account | Available but requires linking the savings account to a checking account |
Offer an ATM credit card? | Yes, if you hold a Wells Fargo/Bank of America checking plus account | Yes, if you hold a Wells Fargo/Bank of America checking plus account |
Certain offers may be subject to varying terms, rates, and fees. The table provides a general overview.
Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: CDs
Wells Fargo or Bank of America for CDs? Let’s compare the offerings of both financial institutions:
Feature | Bank of America | Wells Fargo |
---|---|---|
Annual Percentage Yield (APY) | From 0.03% to 4.35% APY | From 1.50% to 4.75% |
Minimum Balance | $1,000 | $2,500 |
Early Withdrawal Penalty Fee | The availability and terms depend on the deposit conditions | The availability and terms depend on the deposit conditions |
Terms | From 7 months to 10 years | From 3 months to 1 year |
Monthly Fee | None | None |
Some offers may have different terms, rates, and fees. The table above offers a general summary.
Wells Fargo vs. Bank of America: Overdraft Fees and Penalties
In any case, clients can expect certain extra charges, including:
Feature | Wells Fargo | Bank of America |
---|---|---|
Overdraft Fee | $35 (maximum 3 per day) | $10 (maximum 2 per day) |
Overdraft Fee Waiver | Purchases of $5 or less, or purchases exceeding balance by $5 or less | Purchases of $1 or less, or purchases exceeding balance by $1 or less |
Out-of-Network ATM Fee | $2.50 (US), $5 (abroad) | $2.50 (US), $5 (abroad) |
Wire Transfer Fee | $15–45 | $15–45 |
The table provides a general overview.
Pros and Cons of Bank of America
Here are some generalized Pros and Cons associated with Bank of America:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Strong ATM network | High monthly maintenance fees |
Award-winning mobile banking app | High interest rates |
Strong home loan options | High interest rates |
Pros and Cons of Wells Fargo
Here are some generalized Pros and Cons associated with Wells Fargo:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Strong branch network | Low interest rates |
Solid checking account options | Overdraft fees |
Easier to waive monthly service fees | Overdraft fees |

Conclusion
Most Wells Fargo and Bank of America customers remain loyal to the financial institutions despite their shortcomings. In fact, each bank is designed for a particular audience, so neither can be considered universally perfect.
Yes, Bank of America may be a better choice for businesses, while Wells Fargo will offer more appealing solutions for regular depositors and those who prefer a wider branch network. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and depends on your individual requirements.