Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts online in minutes

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer).

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit. 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

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and initial funding source to open an account online.
  • Checking and savings accounts open immediately, but Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit.
  • Your account number and debit card arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account online right away.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to visit a branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to open an account.

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. The name on your ID must match the name you use to open the account.

You also need your Social Security number. Bank of America uses it to verify your identity and check your banking history. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot open an account online; you will need to visit a branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to explore other options.

Finally, have a funding source ready. This can be a debit card from another bank, a checking or savings account number, or the ability to receive a wire transfer. You do not have to fund the account immediately — you can open it and add money later — but Bank of America may close inactive accounts after a period of time.

The online application process, step by step

Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select the account type you want: checking, savings, or both. Bank of America will ask you to choose between their standard checking account and their premium checking account (which has higher monthly fees but waives them if you maintain a minimum balance).

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history — these are questions only you should know the answer to, like previous addresses or loan amounts. This step usually takes 2 to 3 minutes.

Review the account terms and agree to them. Then choose how you want to fund the account. If you use a debit card or bank account, the transfer happens immediately. If you choose a wire transfer, Bank of America will give you instructions and a reference number to provide to your sending bank.

Once you submit the application, you will see a confirmation screen with your new account number. You can log in to your online banking account right away, set up bill pay, and transfer money. Your physical debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Account types you can and cannot open online

Checking accounts open online without restriction. Bank of America offers a basic checking account with no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit, and a premium checking account with higher fees and more perks.

Savings accounts also open online. These earn interest, though the rate varies based on your balance and current market conditions. You can open a savings account on its own or pair it with a checking account in the same application.

Money Market accounts do not open online. You must call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch. These accounts require a higher opening balance (usually $2,500 or more) and offer higher interest rates in exchange.

CDs (Certificates of Deposit) and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) also require a phone call or branch visit. If you want to open one of these, call the number above or find your nearest branch on bankofamerica.com.

What happens after you submit your application

Your account opens immediately after you complete the application. You can log in to your online banking account, set up alerts, and transfer money between accounts right away. However, your physical debit card and any checks you order arrive by mail, which takes 7 to 10 business days.

While you wait for your card, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit with your employer or receive wire transfers. You can also use your account for online bill pay through Bank of America's website or mobile app. If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit any Bank of America branch and withdraw money using your account number and ID.

Bank of America may place a hold on your initial deposit if you fund the account with a check or wire transfer. This hold typically lasts 1 to 5 business days, depending on the amount and the source of the funds. The bank will notify you when the hold is released.

If your application is denied or delayed

Bank of America may deny your application if you have a history of overdrafts, unpaid fees, or fraud at another bank. The bank uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check your record. If you are denied, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors.

Your application may also be delayed if Bank of America cannot verify your identity. This happens most often when your address does not match what is on file with the credit bureaus, or when you have recently moved. If this occurs, the bank will contact you by phone or email and ask for additional documentation, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

If you are denied, you can try opening an account at a Bank of America branch in person. A banker may be able to override the online decision or suggest an alternative account type that you can open.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, the online application requires a Social Security number. If you do not have one, visit a Bank of America branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your options. You may be able to open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or other documentation, but this must be done in person or over the phone.

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

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account online and at ATMs immediately using your account number, and you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America branch with your ID while you wait for the card.

Do I have to fund my account right away when I open it online?

No, you can open an account without funding it immediately. However, Bank of America may close accounts that remain inactive for an extended period. If you plan to fund the account later, do so within a few weeks to keep the account active.

What if Bank of America denies my online application?

The bank usually denies applications based on ChexSystems records or identity verification issues. You can request your ChexSystems report to see why you were denied, and you can dispute any errors. You may also try opening an account in person at a branch, where a banker can review your situation.

Can I open a joint account online with Bank of America?

Yes, you can add a joint owner during the online application process. Both owners must provide their Social Security numbers and agree to the account terms. Both owners will receive their own debit card and online access to the account.