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Wells Fargo vs Bank of America

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

Wells Fargo vs Bank of America

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.