How To Bypass Bank Of America's Phone Tree
Anyone that has had to deal with Bank of America in general knows it can quickly become frustrating. Whether it is their crazy billing practices that we have covered, or as I recently found out, the phone tree from hell. After recently going through this, I thought I would share what I learned, including the good stuff when the representative says, “I probably shouldn't share this with you, but I am going to”. Hopefully these tips on how to bypass Bank of America's phone tree can save you some time.
The First Phone Call(s)
I needed to follow up on a missing rewards check from my Customized Cash Business card and decided to give a call. I started with the number on the back of my card, which is 1-800-673-1044.
You go through some initial verification via the automated system, such as last 4 and billing zip code etc. After that it is a complete mess. I chose rewards, and got the balance, but Bank of America offered no option to talk to anyone. I started saying things like agent, representative, etc. You know the drill. Finally I got the “In order to help serve you better, let us know what the phone call is about” line from the system. I practically screamed rewards out of frustration! You'll never guessed what happened, it took me right back to the automated rewards section where I could not get an agent. Shocking, I know. I tried getting through Bank of America's phone tree multiple times and variations after that without success.
The First Human
Somehow, I was finally able to select another option which gave me a human. To be honest, I do not even know how I did it. The agent was nice and and made it all seem easy by giving me the “Rewards Number” which was 888-888-7937. He even offered to transfer me to the appropriate department. Spoiler alert, he just dumped me right back into the Bank of America phone tree from hell. After I did this a few more times, I gave up for the day.
A Real Human with Real Information
I decided to start fresh with a clear mind and two coffees deep, just to try and make sense of all of this. I called the number on the back of my card (sound familiar), and decided a different approach this time. I decided to try every option that I thought would give me a human again. Making a payment seems like a good one since they want their money. I finally got a lovely lady from the great state of Texas.
I knew things were off to a good start when I mentioned my excitement at speaking with a human after the Bank of America phone tree of death. She immediately apologized and acknowledged it's awful. She then said, as soon as I take care of what you called about, I am going to help you bypass that the next time. The issue was easily resolved (so I thought) when I found out that somehow Bank of America had my current address for my “cards” but not my account. Again, another weird Bank of America thing. Still no reward check, so more calls are coming using what I learned.
How To Bypass Bank of America's Phone Tree
Then we got to the good stuff when the rep said, “okay, so i am going to tell you this and I probably shouldn't.” She reiterated that she understands how frustrating it all is. She then lamented how she sits there all day waiting for phone calls and knows people can't get through. Here is what she said on how to bypass Bank of America's phone tree:
- Call the number on the back of your card
- Choose Report Lost or Stolen Card
- Get a human
That simple! She said when you choose that we have no idea what option you actually chose. That will get you to us right away to help with anything.
How To Bypass Bank Of America's Phone Tree: ToP Thoughts
Dealing with bank of America can be frustrating on many levels. However, if you need a human representative hopefully this tip on how to bypass Bank of America’s phone tree will help you. A few simple steps will save you lots of the frustration I endured trying to do this.
Have you had to call Bank of America and experience the never ending phone tree? Come over to our Facebook group and lets discuss.
