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 you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address Bank of America can reach you at.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products 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 open online in about 10 minutes using a valid ID and Social Security number.
  • You will need to verify your identity by phone, email, or through a video call depending on which account type you choose.
  • Your account number and debit card arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use the account immediately through the mobile app.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account at a branch with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
  • Minimum opening deposit requirements vary by account type — some checking accounts have no minimum, while others require $100 or more.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online application. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will ask you to confirm details from this ID during the application, so have it nearby. You will also need your Social Security number or an ITIN if you do not have a Social Security number.

Have a phone number and email address ready. Bank of America uses these to verify your identity and send you account information. If you are opening an account as a minor (under 18), a parent or guardian must open it with you or for you — minors cannot open accounts entirely on their own online.

Know which account type you want. Bank of America's most common online options are Advantage Checking, Advantage Plus Checking, and Savings accounts. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balances, and benefits. Review these before you apply so you choose the right one for how you plan to use the account.

The online application step by step

Start at bankofamerica.com or use the Bank of America mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer" — the exact link location changes, but it is always on the homepage. Click it and select the account type you want to open.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will ask for your Social Security number next. Then you will confirm details from your government ID — the bank will show you fields and ask you to verify the information matches your ID.

Choose how you want to verify your identity. Most applicants use phone or email verification, which takes seconds. Some accounts or situations may require a video call with a Bank of America representative, which you can schedule during the application. After verification, you will choose your opening deposit method — you can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or mail a check.

Review the account terms and sign the agreement electronically. Bank of America will then confirm your account is open and show you your temporary account number. You can log into your account immediately and set up online banking, but your physical debit card and checks arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Minimum deposits and monthly fees

Minimum opening deposit amounts depend on the account type. Advantage Checking typically requires $100 to $500 to open, though Bank of America sometimes waives this during promotions. Savings accounts usually have a $100 minimum. Some specialty accounts have no minimum deposit at all — check the specific account details before you apply.

Monthly maintenance fees also vary. Advantage Checking costs $12 per month unless you meet one of several fee-waiver conditions: maintaining a $1,500 minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account with a $500 balance. Savings accounts have lower or no monthly fees depending on the product. Bank of America publishes the full fee schedule on its website before you apply, so you can see exactly what you will pay.

Identity verification and fraud checks

Bank of America runs a fraud check on every new account. The bank verifies your Social Security number against IRS records and checks for signs of identity theft or fraud. This process is automatic and usually takes seconds, but occasionally Bank of America flags an application for manual review — this can add a few hours to a few days.

If the bank cannot verify your information automatically, it will ask you to provide additional documents. This might include a copy of your ID, a recent utility bill, or a bank statement showing your address. You can upload these through your online application or bring them to a branch. Having these documents ready before you apply can speed up the process if the bank asks for them.

Using your account before your debit card arrives

Your account is active the moment the application is approved, even though your physical debit card is still in the mail. You can use your account immediately through online banking or the Bank of America mobile app. Set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, or deposit checks using mobile check deposit.

If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can withdraw from any Bank of America ATM using your temporary account number and a PIN you create during the application. Some branches will also issue you a temporary debit card on the spot if you visit in person and show your ID. Ask about this option when you open your account online if you need immediate card access.

What happens if your application is denied

Bank of America may deny your application if you have unpaid fees or negative balances at another bank, if your Social Security number does not verify, or if the fraud check raises concerns. The bank will send you a letter explaining the reason for denial. This letter is important — keep it, because you may need it to dispute the decision or understand what went wrong.

If your application is denied, you have options. You can call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether the decision can be reconsidered or whether you can open a different account type. You can also visit a branch in person — sometimes a banker can open an account for you even if the online application was denied, especially if you bring documentation that addresses the bank's concerns. If you believe the denial was based on incorrect information, you can request a copy of the report the bank used and correct it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Bank of America account online?

No, but you do need a valid government ID and either a Social Security number or an ITIN. Non-citizens with an ITIN can open accounts online the same way citizens do. If you do not have either, you will need to visit a branch and bring additional documents like a passport and proof of address.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Bank of America does not allow you to open a joint account entirely online. One person opens the account, and the second person must visit a branch or complete a separate verification process to be added as a joint owner. Both people will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers.

What if I already have a Bank of America account and want to open another one?

Existing customers can open additional accounts online faster because Bank of America already has your information. Log into your existing account, look for "Open Another Account" or similar language, and follow the prompts. You will still verify your identity, but the process skips some steps and takes about 5 minutes.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after I open my account online?

Physical debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days from the date your account opens. You can use your account immediately through the app or online banking, and you can withdraw cash from ATMs using your temporary account number. If you need a card faster, visit a branch and ask for a temporary card while you wait for the permanent one.

Can I open an account if I have been denied by ChexSystems?

ChexSystems is a banking history report that some banks use to screen new customers. If you have been denied by ChexSystems, Bank of America may still open an account for you, but you will likely need to visit a branch rather than apply online. Bring your ID and ask to speak with a banker about your options. Some Bank of America branches have programs for customers with banking history issues.