Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts entirely online

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and requires a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type). You'll need an email address and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number where you can receive a code.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products still require a branch visit or a phone call to open. If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second one online is faster because the bank already has your information on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes using a valid ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.
  • You will need to verify your identity during signup, usually through a code sent to your phone or email.
  • Some account types, including Money Market accounts, require you to visit a branch or call Bank of America directly.
  • If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a linked account online is faster because verification is simpler.
  • Your account becomes active immediately after approval, though it may take one to two business days for your debit card to arrive by mail.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online signup process. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will ask you to enter the ID number and expiration date during signup.

You also need your Social Security number, a current email address, and a phone number where you can receive text messages or calls. Have your initial deposit amount ready. Checking accounts typically require a $100 minimum opening deposit, though this can vary. Savings accounts may have a different minimum. If you do not have $100 available right now, you may want to wait or call a branch to ask about accounts with lower minimums.

If you are opening an account as a minor (under 18), you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign. Bank of America does not allow minors to open accounts entirely online — one adult must be present or the account must be opened at a branch.

The online signup process, step by step

Start at bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Click it and select the account type you want — Checking or Savings. Bank of America will ask you a series of questions about your personal information: name, date of birth, address, and phone number.

Next, enter your Social Security number and government ID details. Bank of America will verify this information in real time. If there is a mismatch or a problem, the system will tell you immediately and may ask you to call or visit a branch instead.

You will then be asked to verify your identity. Bank of America typically sends a code to your phone via text message or email. Enter that code to confirm you own the phone number or email address you provided. Some accounts may require additional verification steps, such as answering security questions based on your credit history.

After verification, you will choose your account features — overdraft protection, online bill pay, and other services. Then you will set up your initial deposit. You can link an existing bank account and transfer money, or provide a debit card to fund the account. Your new Bank of America account becomes active immediately after approval.

When the online process will not work

Bank of America will not let you complete the online signup if your identity verification fails. This can happen if your ID information does not match what the bank has on file, if your Social Security number does not verify, or if there are fraud alerts on your credit report. In these cases, you will need to visit a branch in person with your ID and proof of address.

Certain account types are not available online. Money Market accounts, CDs (certificates of deposit), and some specialty accounts require a phone call to 1-800-432-1000 or a branch visit. If you are under 18, you must open your account at a branch with a parent or guardian present, even though the online form may appear to accept your age.

If you do not have a valid government ID, you cannot open an account online. Bank of America requires this for all new accounts. You will need to visit a branch with whatever ID you do have and ask what alternatives are available.

How long it takes from signup to usable account

Your account is active immediately after you complete the online signup and receive approval. You can log in to online banking and set up bill pay right away. However, your physical debit card arrives by mail in one to two business days, so you cannot use it in stores or at ATMs until it arrives.

If you need to access money before your debit card arrives, you can transfer funds from a linked bank account or use your account number to set up direct deposit. Some Bank of America branches will issue a temporary debit card on the spot if you visit in person, but this is not may provide.

Checks for your new account take longer. If you order checks online, they typically arrive within five to seven business days. You can request expedited shipping for an additional fee.

What happens if verification fails

If Bank of America cannot verify your identity online, the system will stop the signup process and tell you why. Common reasons include a mismatch between your ID and the name in the bank's system, an incorrect Social Security number, or a fraud alert on your credit file.

When this happens, you have two options. First, you can visit a Bank of America branch in person with your ID and proof of address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement). A banker can open your account manually and may be able to resolve the verification issue on the spot. Second, you can call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and ask to open an account over the phone. A representative can walk you through additional verification steps.

If you have a fraud alert or credit freeze on your file, you may need to contact the credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) to lift it before Bank of America can verify you. This can take a few days.

Linking your new account to existing Bank of America accounts

If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second account online is simpler. The bank already has your information verified, so the process is faster and requires less documentation. You can link your new account to your existing one immediately, which lets you transfer money between them without delay.

When you open a linked account, you can use the same online banking login for both. You can also set up transfers to move money between accounts automatically — for example, moving money from checking to savings each payday. These transfers happen instantly if both accounts are at Bank of America.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account online if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all new accounts. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch and ask what alternatives might be available, though the bank's options are limited.

What is the minimum deposit to open an account online?

Checking accounts typically require a $100 minimum opening deposit. Savings accounts may have a different minimum. The exact amount depends on the specific account type. If you cannot meet the minimum, call 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether any accounts have lower requirements.

Can I open an account online if I have been denied by another bank?

Bank of America does not automatically deny you based on past denials from other banks. However, the bank checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, during signup. If you appear in ChexSystems with a negative mark, Bank of America may deny your application. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com to see what is on file.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account online?

Your debit card arrives by mail in one to two business days. If you need access to money before it arrives, you can transfer funds from a linked account or use your account number for direct deposit. Some branches will issue a temporary card if you visit in person.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present or to complete verification separately. You will need to visit a branch together or call Bank of America to open a joint account over the phone with both parties on the line.