AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Checking accounts: U.S. Bank Smartly Checking vs. Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking

Quick Verdict

U.S. Bank Smartly Checking is better for users who want to earn a small amount of interest and potentially access direct deposits early. Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking is better for users who prioritize a large ATM network and potentially lower overdraft fees.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeU.S. Bank Smartly CheckingBank of America Advantage Plus Banking
Monthly maintenance fee$12$12
Fee waiver optionsThe monthly fee can be waived by meeting one of the following requirements: Combined monthly direct deposits totaling $1,500 or more; Maintaining an average account balance of $1,500 or greater; Being an account owner of an eligible U.S. Bank small business checking account; Qualifying for Smart Rewards Gold Tier or above; Being a member of a customer group such as youth, young adult, senior, or military.Make at least one qualifying direct deposit of $250 or more per statement cycle, Maintain a minimum daily balance of $1,500 or more, Enroll in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program (minimum balance of at least $20,000 across your BofA accounts for three months)
Minimum opening deposit$25$100
Overdraft fee$36 per transaction if the overdrawn balance is more than $50. There's no overdraft fee if the balance is overdrawn by $50 or less.$10 per item, limited to a maximum of two overdraft fees per day. No overdraft fee is charged if the account is overdrawn by $1 or less.
ATM network sizeU.S. Bank has over 4,500 ATMs. It also partners with the MoneyPass ATM network.Approximately 15,000 ATMs
Mobile banking app rating (iOS)The mobile banking apps receive good reviews.Not available
Mobile banking app rating (Android)The mobile banking apps receive good reviews.Not available
Interest-bearing?Yes. The interest rate is 0.005%.No
Early direct deposit?Yes, U.S. Bank may make funds from qualifying direct deposits available up to 2 days early.Not available
Bill pay featuresYes. You can manage and track bills, and schedule payments through the U.S. Bank mobile app or online.Yes, through the mobile app and online banking
FDIC insured?Yes, U.S. Bank is FDIC insured up to $250,000 per depositor.Yes
Availability of Zelle?Yes.Yes, Zelle is integrated into the Bank of America mobile app

Overall Comparison

U.S. Bank Smartly Checking offers interest and early direct deposit, while Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking boasts a larger ATM network.

Pros and Cons

U.S. Bank Smartly Checking

Pros:
  • Large ATM network
  • Various features
  • Overdraft protection options
  • Opportunities to earn rewards
  • User-friendly mobile app
  • Real-time transaction tracking
  • Early direct deposit
  • Mobile check deposit
  • 24/7 customer support via phone
Cons:
  • Monthly maintenance fee (can be waived)
  • Fees for out-of-network ATM usage
  • Fees for wire transfers
  • Fees for stop payments
  • Fees for paper statements

Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking

Pros:
  • Large branch and ATM network
  • Mobile app offers features such as mobile check deposit, Zelle transfers, and debit card controls
  • Relatively easy to waive the monthly fee
Cons:
  • Monthly maintenance fee if requirements are not met
  • Potential overdraft fees
  • Other fees may apply, such as for non-Bank of America ATM usage or international transactions
  • May not be the best value if you cannot waive the monthly fee

User Experiences and Feedback