Merrill Help & Support: Customer Service Resources & FAQs (2024)

Table of Contents
Move money Manage Accounts Additional resources See trending topics "How do I transfer an account or assets from another firm to Merrill?" Transfer cash Transfer securities Transfer an account "Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts?" Do more with banking and investing connected "How do I roll over a 401(k), IRA or assets from my company or another firm to Merrill?" What you'll need: "Why should I invest with Merrill? Explore ways to invest Discover powerful tools Access how-to videos Choose a mobile platform you can trust Get rewarded for your combined balances Move money Manage Accounts Additional resources See trending topics "How do I reset my user ID or password?" "Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts?" Do more with banking and investing connected "How do I deposit money into my Merrill account?" From Bank of America to Merrill From another financial Institution to Merrill Depositing a check How do I find the ACH routing number and checking account number associated with my account?" Search questions by category How do I reset my User ID and Password? Can my Merrill account be linked to my Bank of America account? How long will it take to deposit money into my account? How do I check the status of my transfer? Where can I find tax information and forms? It was requested that I update my information. Why is this important? Can I opt out of sharing my personal information with Merrill? What should I do with an old 401(k)/retirement account? How do I submit documents/paperwork? What are the different ways I can invest with Merrill? Do you provide help in Spanish? Is my account insured? How do I deposit money into my Merrill account? When will my mobile check deposit be available? How long does it take for my check deposit to clear? How can I determine if my money is available? How do I find the ACH routing number and checking account number associated with my account? How do I link an account? How do I withdraw money from my Merrill Edge Self-Directed account? Is my account insured? Do my Merrill Lynch® Wealth Management brokerage accounts qualify for $0 online stock and ETF trades? Are there any other brokerage fees that apply to $0 online stock, ETF and option trades? When can I place trades during extended hours trading? Can I trade on margin? On what exchange does Merrill execute orders? What types of mutual funds can I trade online? Can I demo Merrill Edge MarketPro®? Why did I get a trading violation? Where can I find information on order types? How can I download the Merrill Edge mobile app? What is the cost to use the Merrill Edge mobile app? How secure is the Merrill Edge mobile app? Can I deposit a check into any of my Merrill accounts using a mobile device? Where can I learn about online security? What security features does Merrill offer? How does Merrill protect my personal information? How do I change my login password? How do I update my privacy choices? How does Merrill keep my account safe? How can I prevent fraud on my account? How can I protect myself against scams? How can I reduce my chances of being a victim of identity theft? How do I report fraud or a suspicious email? Where can I learn about web accessibility? Can I chat with customer service online instead of calling? How can I get help with an employer sponsored 401(k) managed by Merrill? Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts? What types of transfers can I make online? What types of accounts can I transfer to Merrill? When my debit card or checks have been lost or stolen, what should I do? How can I order checks? What is a trusted contact person? How can I add a trusted contact person? Why would I need a trusted contact? What limitations are placed on a trusted contact person? Who should have a trusted contact person? Help when you need it. How you want it. Call us Set up a meeting

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"How do I transfer an account or assets from another firm to Merrill?"

Transfer cash

To transfer cash, including money markets funds held at a financial institution other than Bank of America, use our

transfer Assets Online (login required) tool to make the transfer. When this process is complete, you will be able to set up recurring deposits and wire funds without delays or fees.

Transfer securities

To transfer securities or an account from another financial firm, use our Transfer Assets Online (login required) tool to make the transfer. Start with this tool to transfer some assets or complete accounts held somewhere else.

Transfer an account

If you are transferring an account that is changing in account ownership from a custodial account to a joint account, the minor must have attained the age of majority. If the change in ownership is to a joint account, the minor must be one of the joint owners. The custodian of the account must sign the transfer form.

You will need an account with the same type and ownership at Merrill that matches the account you want to transfer. For example, you can transfer assets from an individual Roth IRA to another individual Roth IRA with the same owner. Have a copy of your most recent statement from the account you want to transfer to Merrill.

Medallion signature guarantees will be required for all signatures in the Special Authorization section of the Account Transfer form. A medallion signature guarantee is a special financially-backed signature guarantee for the transfer of securities. Please check with your bank or security firm to find out if they can provide medallion signature guarantees.

Please contact us to assist you at any time while you are transferring your account.

Get startedwith Merrill

"Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts?"

Yes. One of the greatest benefits of linking your accounts is the ability to transfer money easily between your eligible Bank of America banking and Merrill investing accounts. You can make an immediate, one-time transfer between accounts, schedule transfers in the future and set up recurring transfers. Please note that you can only transfer money between your brokerage accounts on the Merrill Edge website. And, if you want to transfer money from a Bank of America account to another person's Bank of America account, you must do so through Online Banking.

To transfer cash between your Bank of America banking and Merrill investing accounts, link your accounts, and then use our online tool to make a transfer.

Get startedwith Merrill

Do more with banking and investing connected

With your Merrill investing and Bank of America banking accounts connected through a single login, it's never been easier to manage your finances. Get a complete picture of your financial situation, bank and invest anytime, anywhere with our secure mobile app and act quickly on financial decisions with instant transfers between eligible accounts.

Please contact us to assist you at any time while you are transferring your account.

Learn about our connected experiencesat Merrill

"How do I roll over a 401(k), IRA or assets from my company or another firm to Merrill?"

It's easy to roll over your assets to a Merrill IRA. If you already have the appropriate account type open, you can use our online transfer tool. Otherwise, call us at 888.637.3343 to get started.Footnote1

Visit our Rollover Page to learn more about the options you have with your old 401(k).Footnote2

Get startedwith Merrill

What you'll need:

It takes just minutes to open your account online. Here's what you'll need:

  • Social Security number and date of birth
  • A valid mailing and email address
  • Employment information (such as annual income and household net worth)
  • Names and dates of birth for any beneficiaries

Have questions? Call Merrill at 888.637.3343.

"Why should I invest with Merrill?

Explore ways to invest

Learn about all the investment and account choices available at Merrill and find the options that work best for you.

Discover powerful tools

Search for investing ideas with Idea Builder, a powerful tool that helps you explore investments by theme.

Explore Idea Builderat Merrill

Access how-to videos

Watch videos to learn how to make the most of your Merrill account. We'll guide you through choosing and opening an account, getting it funded, building a portfolio and more.

Access videosat Merrill

Choose a mobile platform you can trust

Merrill's secure mobile app lets you invest with confidence and manage your finances from the convenience of your mobile device.

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Get rewarded for your combined balances

Maximize your rewards with the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, which takes into account your combined Merrill investing and Bank of America deposit balances.

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Move money

Fund an accountat Merrill popupTransfer accountat MerrillTransfer cashat MerrillIssue a checkat MerrillWire fundsat MerrillAccess bill payat Merrill

Manage Accounts

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Additional resources

Forgot password/user IDat MerrillView pricing and feesat MerrillView statementsat MerrillTax centerat MerrillLoss of a loved one at Merrill

Open a new accountwith Merrill

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Find answers to all your questions about transferring funds, opening an account and investing at Merrill.

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"How do I reset my user ID or password?"

Existing clients can change their login password by using our Password Reset tool. Forgot User ID and Password Reset.

"Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts?"

Yes. One of the greatest benefits of linking your accounts is the ability to transfer money easily between your eligible Bank of America banking and Merrill investing accounts. You can make an immediate, one-time transfer between accounts, schedule transfers in the future and set up recurring transfers. Please note that you can only transfer money between your brokerage accounts on the Merrill Edge website. And, if you want to transfer money from a Bank of America account to another person's Bank of America account, you must do so through Online Banking.

To transfer cash between your Bank of America banking and Merrill investing accounts, link your accounts, and then use our online tool to make a transfer.

Get startedwith Merrill

Do more with banking and investing connected

With your Merrill investing and Bank of America banking accounts connected through a single login, it's never been easier to manage your finances. Get a complete picture of your financial situation, bank and invest anytime, anywhere with our secure mobile app and act quickly on financial decisions with instant transfers between eligible accounts.

Please contact us to assist you at any time while you are transferring your account.

Learn about our connected experiencesat Merrill

"How do I deposit money into my Merrill account?"

From Bank of America to Merrill

To transfer cash from a Bank of America or Merrill account, link your accounts, and then use our online tool to make an immediate transfer.Footnote3

Log in to get startedwith Merrill

From another financial Institution to Merrill

To transfer cash or securities from an account held at another financial institution, use our

transfer Assets Online (login required) tool to make the transfer. When that process is completed, you will be able to see that account in our online tool and will be able to transfer funds and set up one-time and recurring deposits.

Depositing a check

To deposit a check, please write your Merrill account number in the memo field of your endorsed check and deposit via the mobile app or mail it to one of the addresses below:

Regular mail
Merrill
P.O. Box 962
Newark, NJ 07101-0962

Overnight mail
Merrill
FL9-802-03-06
4803 Deer Lake Drive East
Jacksonville, FL 32246
877.653.4732

How do I find the ACH routing number and checking account number associated with my account?"

If you ordered checks for your account, you can find the routing and account numbers along the bottom left side of the check. The Merrill routing number is the first nine digits (084301767), and the account number is the second nine digits. The last four numbers indicate the check number.

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How do I reset my User ID and Password?

Our online password reset makes it easy for you to retrieve your User ID and reset your password.

Can my Merrill account be linked to my Bank of America account?

Yes, you can link your accounts by logging in and visiting the Link Accounts page.

How long will it take to deposit money into my account?

There are several different timeframes depending on the method of transfer.

Transfer cash

  • Real-time or up to 3 business days
  • Transfer instantly from your eligible linked Bank of America or Merrill account or within a few days from a linked account at another financial institution.

Wire transfer

  • Same day
  • Wire funds electronically from another financial institution.

Write a check

  • 3-5 business days
  • Transfer to your account by mailing a personal, cashier's or bank check or depositing checks via the mobile app.

Transfer accounts or securities

  • 8+ business days
  • Transfer an existing brokerage account, IRA account, or securities from another financial institution. You can also transfer securities instantly between your Merrill accounts.

Rollover into an IRA

  • 10+ business days
  • Consolidate your retirement assets by rolling over accounts held in former employers 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plans into a Merrill IRA.

How do I check the status of my transfer?

You can view the status of your transfer online by accessing View in-process transfers. You can also sign into your Merrill account and check the balances and positions in your account.

Note: You may need to adjust the account filters to see the status of your in-process transfers.

Where can I find tax information and forms?

Visit our Tax Center for all your tax information needs.

It was requested that I update my information. Why is this important?

We are required to ensure that all our client information remains up to date. In an effort to confirm your information and make the process as easy as possible, we have created this online pop up to request your review. You may see it periodically after logging in. Please note that this is not intended for marketing purposes rather to comply with regulatory rules.

Can I opt out of sharing my personal information with Merrill?

As a firm, we have a responsibility to obtain this information. Unfortunately, we do not offer an opt out at this time. These are industry wide regulations; other firms require similar information from their clients.

What should I do with an old 401(k)/retirement account?

Visit our Rollover Page to learn more about the options you have with your old 401(k).

How do I submit documents/paperwork?

For the fastest receipt of your documents, please use our document upload tool available through the Secure Inbox once you have logged into your account at merrilledge.com.

OR

If you complete a Merrill document, please return the document as per the instructions on the form. If you would like to provide general documents, you can do so by fax at 866.994.7807. Mail a copy of the document to:

Regular mail
Merrill Document Processing Center
P.O. Box 29002
Hot Springs, AR 71903-9002

Overnight mail
Merrill Document Processing Center
3315 Central Avenue
Hot Springs, AR 71913

What are the different ways I can invest with Merrill?

We offer Self-Directed Investing, Merrill Guided Investing, and Merrill Guided Investing with an advisor. With a full suite of investment solutions and tools, we can assist you in pursuing your investment goals with confidence, convenience, and control. Learn more about choosing and opening an account.

Do you provide help in Spanish?

For help in Spanish, including opening an account, please call 855.309.7382

Is my account insured?

Your brokerage accounts are not FDIC insured, but rather accounts held with Merrill are SIPC insured. SIPC insurance covers your account up to $500,000 in equity with up to $250,000 in cash. Coverage above SIPC limits is covered by Lloyd's of London. Customers who have exceeded the full SIPC limits have further protection provided by the Lloyd's policy, subject to an aggregate loss limit of $1 billion for all customer claims and includes up to $1.9 million cash per customer (excluding any FDIC eligible products within the account). Learn more at SIPCpopup.

How do I deposit money into my Merrill account?

To transfer cash from a Bank of America or Merrill account, link your accounts, and then use our online transfer service.

To transfer cash or securities from an account held at another financial institution, please complete our

Funds Transfer Service form (PDF). When this process is completed, you will be able to see your external account in our online tool and be able to transfer funds and set up both one-time and recurring deposits. To deposit a check, please write your Merrill account number in the memo field of your endorsed check and deposit via the mobile app or mail it to one of the addresses below:

Regular mail
Merrill
P.O. Box 962
Newark, NJ 07101-0962

Overnight mail
Merrill
FL9-802-03-06
4803 Deer Lake Drive East
Jacksonville, FL 32246
877.653.4732

When will my mobile check deposit be available?

The time it takes for mobile check deposits to clear will vary depending on when the deposit is made and other factors. The status of each deposit will be listed as:

  • Pending – We have received your deposit.
  • Completed – The deposit has been processed; however, the funds may not yet be available to you. To determine when a deposit you make with a mobile device is available for withdrawal, please check the available balance in your account. Once the deposited funds are available for your use, you must keep the check for an additional 14 days before you destroy it to ensure the issuing party or institution has honored the check.
  • Rejected – Either the check images submitted were unacceptable or there were connection or other issues. Please note that we may reject a deposit after it's been submitted. If that is the case, you will receive an email or letter that describes why we were unable to accept the deposit. Also, the status will be updated to "Rejected" in View Status.

How long does it take for my check deposit to clear?

Deposits by check may take up to 15 days to clear and are subject to applicable laws and regulations.

How can I determine if my money is available?

To determine when funds are available, access Balances from the Accounts menu and view 'Cash available to invest' and 'Cash available to withdraw.'

How do I find the ACH routing number and checking account number associated with my account?

If you ordered checks for your account, you can find the routing and account numbers along the bottom left side of the check. The Merrill routing number is the first nine digits (084301767), and the account number is the second nine digits. The last four numbers indicate the check number.

If you have not ordered checks for your account, you still have a checking account number assigned to your account. Once your account is opened you can call our Investment Center at 877.653.4732 to retrieve your account number.

How do I link an account?

You can add new individual accounts to your online portfolio view using a simple three-step process. To link an individual account, it must have the same name, Social Security Number and zip code as your User ID. You cannot link a joint account (i.e., one shared with a family member) online. To link an account, access Link Accounts under the Account tab. If you have questions or would like us to add a joint account or remove an account from your online portfolio view, please contact us at 888.637.3343.

How do I withdraw money from my Merrill Edge Self-Directed account?

Log in to your account and select under the Accounts tab. From there, you can select the withdrawal method and follow the on-screen instructions.

Is my account insured?

Your brokerage accounts are not FDIC insured, but rather accounts held with Merrill are SIPC insured. SIPC insurance covers your account up to $500,000 in equity with up to $250,000 in cash. Coverage above SIPC limits is covered by Lloyd's of London. Customers who have exceeded the full SIPC limits have further protection provided by the Lloyd's policy, subject to an aggregate loss limit of $1 billion for all customer claims, and includes up to $1.9 million cash per customer (excluding any FDIC eligible products within the account). Learn more at SIPCpopup.

Do my Merrill Lynch® Wealth Management brokerage accounts qualify for $0 online stock and ETF trades?

Only Merrill Edge® Self-Directed accounts are eligible for $0 online stock and ETF trades.Footnote4 Footnote*Options contract and other fees may apply.

Are there any other brokerage fees that apply to $0 online stock, ETF and option trades?

The commission fee for online stock, ETF and optionFootnote* trades is waived for Merrill Edge® Self-Directed accounts. Other brokerage fees continue to apply (for example, SEC transaction fees, per contract charges).

Footnote*$0 option trades are subject to a $0.65 per-contract fee.

Account maintenance fees also still apply as do commission charges for trades that are not $0 online stock, ETF, or option transactions. If you trade on margin, you will still accrue margin interest based on your debit balance. Brokerage fees associated with, but not limited to, option trading, special stock registration/gifting, account transfer and processing and termination also apply. To learn more about Merrill pricing, visit our pricing page.

When can I place trades during extended hours trading?

Pre-market and after-hours trading is available Monday through Friday on days when the market is open. Pre-market trading is available from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. ET. After-hours trading is from 4:01 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

On any day, extended-hours trading may be unavailable, delayed, interrupted or terminated early without prior notice. Extended-hours trading is not available on days the market is closed, preceding a market holiday or if the market is closed due to an emergency. This service is not available for clients using a 10-digit User ID.

Can I trade on margin?

Yes, you can trade on margin by using the Margin Lending Program. During the account opening process, you have the ability to opt-in and sign the margin agreement. If you do not accept the agreement during account opening, you subsequently may submit a margin agreement form to gain access. As a Merrill client, you can access credit based on the value of the margin-eligible securities in your Merrill account. Learn more about margin lending, including the potential advantages and risks.

On what exchange does Merrill execute orders?

Merrill trades on all major domestic exchanges.

What types of mutual funds can I trade online?

Start your search for mutual funds that may be right for you with Merrill Edge Select® Funds pre-screened by professionals at Merrill Lynch® Wealth Management. Our mutual funds screener can help you find the funds that best match your investment goals.

Can I demo Merrill Edge MarketPro®?

Merrill Edge Market Pro® is only available to clients with an account. Learn more about Merrill Edge MarketPro®.

Why did I get a trading violation?

Learn more about trading violations, how they occur, and how they can be avoided.

Where can I find information on order types?

Information on order types can be easily accessed when placing a trade online; simply select the help icon located just above the Order Type drop-down menu.

How can I download the Merrill Edge mobile app?

You will need an iPad®. iPhone® or Android™ device. Once you download the app, you will use the same User ID and Password you use to log on to merrilledge.com. Learn more about our mobile investing options

popuppopup

What is the cost to use the Merrill Edge mobile app?

There is no charge to download and use the mobile app. Depending on your device, you may be charged access fees by your wireless service provider. Please check with your provider for details.

How secure is the Merrill Edge mobile app?

We are committed to protecting your privacy and use the same advanced encryption technology on this device as we use on our website. Learn more about our Privacy policy.

Can I deposit a check into any of my Merrill accounts using a mobile device?

You can use a mobile device to deposit checks into any of the following accounts:

  • Cash Management Account® (CMA®)
  • Cash Management Sub Account®
  • CMA® for Trust Account (as allowed by the trust)
  • CMA for Trust Sub Account® (as allowed by the trust)
  • Roth and Traditional IRAs
  • SEP (as IRA contributions only, no employer contributions)
  • Loan Management Account® (LMA®)
  • Working Capital Management Account® (WCMA® – Business)
  • Working Capital Management Account® Sub Account
  • Endowment Management Account
  • Medical Savings Account
  • Business Investor Account

Footnote* Mobile check deposit is limited to current and prior year personal contributions. Rollovers and employer contributions must be mailed in with a deposit slip indicating contribution type (i.e. indirect rollover, transfer, employer contribution).

Where can I learn about online security?

Your online security is extremely important to us. To learn more about our security procedures, please visit our Security Center.

What security features does Merrill offer?

Merrill is committed to your security because the protection and trust of our clients is essential to our business. Here are some of the ways we protect you:

  • Authentication – Our highly trained associates follow strict guidelines to validate your identity and ensure your confidential information stays safe when you call, visit us online or at a branch.
  • Security Technology – We offer banking safeguards through powerful security tools, such as early fraud warnings, state-of-the-art encryption, login authorization codes, and much more. For example, IBM® Security Trusteer Rapport™ is online fraud protection software — free for Merrill Edge® Self-Directed or Bank of America clients — which delivers extra security while you're signed into your account. Rapport works alongside your existing anti-virus software and firewall to prevent fraudulent websites from stealing your online ID, password and other sensitive information. Please visit Trusteer's websitepopup to learn more about Rapport and download their software.
  • Fraud Protection – Merrill's Fraud Protection Guarantee will reimburse you for losses that occur due to unauthorized third-party activity.
  • Merrill offers an optional authorization code that you may establish to provide an added level of security. Once you enable this service online via the Security Center, we'll send you a one-time code based on your receipt preference.

How does Merrill protect my personal information?

The privacy of your personal information is important to us. We conduct regular reviews and abide by rigorous privacy standards to ensure personal information we collect. use and share is protected. To learn how Merrill protects the privacy of your personal information, visit our Privacy page.

How do I change my login password?

Our online password reset makes it easy for you to retrieve your User ID and reset your password. You can also change your password in the Merrill Edge mobile app; just click Forgot ID/Password and follow the steps on screen.

How do I update my privacy choices?

Merrill, a Bank of America company, takes the protection of your personal information very seriously. We operate under a detailed, rigorous information security policy and program designed to protect the security and confidentiality of all our clients' information. Set your privacy choices by completing this brief questionnaire.

How does Merrill keep my account safe?

Merrill is committed to ensuring the safety of your account. Visit our Security Center to see how you can protect yourself, and how to stay safe online.

How can I prevent fraud on my account?

Review our Fraud Prevention Checklist to increase your security and help protect yourself against fraud and identity theft.

How can I protect myself against scams?

Identifying scams can be difficult. As a result, we've created a few tips that may help you identify potential scams. Learn about how to protect yourself.

How can I reduce my chances of being a victim of identity theft?

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of ID theft such as keeping your personal information secure, protecting your devices, and controlling access to your accounts. Learn more about how to protect yourself against identify theft.

How do I report fraud or a suspicious email?

If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, contact us immediately for further assistance.

Where can I learn about web accessibility?

To learn more about our web accessibility, please view our Accessible Services.

Can I chat with customer service online instead of calling?

We have online chat agents who can answer questions about opening an account with Merrill. To start chatting, select the Chat button in the bottom right corner of your screen.

How can I get help with an employer sponsored 401(k) managed by Merrill?

For assistance with your 401(k)/403(b)/457 plan, please contact the customer service number on your most recent statement, or our general 401(k) customer service representatives at 800.228.4015, M-F 8 AM EST-7 PM ET.

Can I transfer money between my Bank of America and Merrill accounts?

Yes, one of the greatest benefits of linking your accounts is the ability to transfer money easily between your eligible banking and brokerage accounts. You can make an immediate, one-time transfer between accounts, schedule transfers in the future and set up recurring transfers. Please note that you can only transfer money between your brokerage accounts on the Merrill Edge website. If you want to transfer money from a Bank of America account to another person's Bank of America account, you must do so through Online Banking.

To transfer cash between your Bank of America and Merrill accounts, link your accounts, and then use our online tool to make a transfer.

What types of transfers can I make online?

With our Transfer Assets Online service, you can transfer money (including money market funds held at banks other than Bank of America N.A. or its affiliated banks), securities in an account held at a bank other than Merrill, or investment funds held at another financial institution. Login is required. Although you can also transfer brokered CDs with our online tool, please be aware that you may be responsible for liquidation, transfer, termination, surrender and penalty fees when you liquidate these assets. Please check with the other financial firm holding your assets for more information.

What types of accounts can I transfer to Merrill?

In general, you can transfer brokerage accounts, Traditional, Roth and SEP IRAs, custodian accounts and estate trusts, as long as the ownership of the two accounts is the same. Please contact us before initiating a transfer of an account with a power of attorney.

We can also accept transfers of retirement assets; however, restrictions may apply. For example, assets cannot be transferred without penalty from a SIMPLE IRA to a Traditional for two years from the first contribution. Instead, you must transfer assets from a SIMPLE IRA to another SIMPLE IRA during that time period. After the initial two-year period, you can transfer assets from a SIMPLE IRA to a Traditional without penalty. Some mutual funds may not be eligible for transfer.

Certificate of Deposit (CDs) typically take four to six weeks to transfer. If you want to liquidate your CD at maturity and transfer cash, you must submit your request between 14 and 21 days before the maturity date. If we receive your request 14 days or less before the maturity date, we will process the transfer on a best effort basis. No transfers will be processed for CDs that mature beyond 21 days. Please note: If you liquidate a CD before maturity, you will likely incur a penalty. Please contact your transferring bank or credit union for more information.

If you would like to transfer margin positions, you must have a valid Merrill margin agreement in place for the account you want to transfer these assets to. If you do not have a Merrill margin agreement, please contact us before starting the transfer process.

When my debit card or checks have been lost or stolen, what should I do?

To report brokerage checks or CMA Visa Access debit cards lost or stolen, contact 800-CMA-LOST (262-5678) to place a lost or stolen block on checks and/or CMA Visa cards.

You should also contact any merchants who have automatic bill payments for you. When you get your replacement card, you'll need to give those merchants your new card number to set up automatic bill payments.

How can I order checks?

Merrill clients can order checks and deposit slips online in just a few minutes.

What is a trusted contact person?

A trusted contact person(s) is an individual (age 18 or older) identified by you, whom Merrill could contact and disclose information about your account:

  • To address possible financial exploitation;
  • To confirm (but not update or change) specifics of your current contact information, health status, or the identity of any legal guardian, executor, trustee, or holder of a power of attorney; or
  • As otherwise permitted by Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Rule 2165 (Financial Exploitation of Specified Adults).

How can I add a trusted contact person?

A trusted contact person can be added to your existing accounts online.

Why would I need a trusted contact?

A trusted contact can help us contact you when we otherwise can't reach you in circ*mstances such as:

  • You are traveling
  • There is a natural disaster
  • There is a concern about fraud
  • You are having health issues

What limitations are placed on a trusted contact person?

A trusted contact person cannot:

  • Make trades in your account
  • Withdraw funds from your account
  • Make decisions about your account
  • Act with the authority of a power of attorney, legal guardian, trustee, or executor
  • Make any updates to your contact information
  • Check balances in accounts

Who should have a trusted contact person?

Everyone with an investment account should have a trusted contact person.

Help when you need it. How you want it.

Call us

888.637.3343

Set up a meeting

Footnote

Other fees may apply. Sales of ETFs are subject to a transaction fee of between $0.01 and $0.03 per $1,000 of principal. There are costs associated with owning ETFs and mutual funds. To learn more about Merrill pricing, visit our Pricing page.

Footnote1 Did you know that there are two ways to move assets from one IRA to another? The most common is a transfer. This is when you transfer assets from an IRA held at one financial institution to an IRA at another. You may directly transfer assets between investment firms as frequently as you wish. The second, less common approach is called an indirect rollover. Rollovers occur when you withdraw assets from an IRA and then "roll" those assets back into the same IRA or into another one within 60 days. IRS rules limit you to one rollover per client per twelve month period. For more information on rolling over your IRA, 401(k), 403(b) or SEP IRA, visit our rollover page or call a Merrill rollover specialist at 888.637.3343.

Footnote

You have choices about what to do with your employer-sponsored retirement plan accounts. Depending on your financial circ*mstances, needs and goals, you may choose to roll over to an IRA or convert to a Roth IRA, roll over an employer-sponsored plan from your old job to your new employer, take a distribution, or leave the account where it is. Each choice may offer different investment options and services, fees and expenses, withdrawal options, required minimum distributions, tax treatment (particularly with reference to employer stock), and different types of protection from creditors and legal judgments. These are complex choices and should be considered with care. For more information visit our rollover page or call Merrill at 888.637.3343.

Footnote

Certain banking and brokerage accounts may be ineligible for real-time money movement, including but not limited to transfers to/from bank IRAs (CD, Money Market), 529s, Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking™, Credit Cards and transfers from IRAs, Loans (HELOC, LOC, Mortgage) and accounts held in the military bank. Accounts eligible for real-time transfers will be displayed online in the to/from drop down menu on the transfer screen.

Footnote

Other fees may apply. Free and $0 means there is no commission charged for these trades. $0 option trades are subject to a $0.65 per-contract fee. Sales are subject to a transaction fee of between $0.01 and $0.03 per $1,000 of principal. There are costs associated with owning ETFs. To learn more about Merrill pricing, visit our Pricing page.

MAP6214097-07262025

Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.

Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

This material is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. Additional information is available in our Client Relationship Summary (PDF).

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as "MLPF&S" or "Merrill") makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp."). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member Securities Investor Protection (SIPC) popup and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp").

Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. (MLLA) is a licensed insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A. and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products offered through MLPF&S and insurance and annuity products offered through MLLA:

Are Not FDIC InsuredAre Not Bank GuaranteedMay Lose Value
Are Not DepositsAre Not Insured by Any Federal Government AgencyAre Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity

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