Yes, you can open a Bank of America checking account online, by phone, or in person

Bank of America offers several checking account types, and you can start the process without visiting a branch. Most people open accounts online in about 10 minutes, though the account becomes fully active within one to three business days. You will need a Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type — some require $0, others require $100 or more).

The fastest route is Bank of America's website or mobile app. You can also call 1-800-432-1000 to open an account over the phone, or walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID and deposit method. If you already bank with Bank of America, opening a second checking account takes even less time.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America checking accounts can be opened online, by phone, or in a branch, and most online applications take 10 minutes or less.
  • You will need a Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID, and an initial deposit amount that depends on which account type you choose.
  • Your account becomes fully active within one to three business days, though you may be able to use it for some transactions immediately.
  • Bank of America offers multiple checking account types with different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and features — compare them before you start.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you open your account, whether online or in person. You will need your Social Security number, a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your current address, and your phone number. Bank of America will verify your identity using this information.

You will also need a way to make your initial deposit. This can be a debit card, another bank account (for an electronic transfer), or cash if you are opening the account in a branch. The deposit amount depends on which checking account you choose — some Bank of America accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require $100 or $500.

Bank of America checking account types and their differences

Bank of America offers three main checking accounts: Advantage Banking, Advantage Plus Banking, and Advantage Relationship Banking. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and features. Advantage Banking has a $12 monthly fee (waived if you maintain a $1,500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit). Advantage Plus Banking costs $15 per month (waived with a $2,500 minimum balance or direct deposit). Advantage Relationship Banking has a $20 monthly fee (waived with a $10,000 minimum balance or direct deposit).

The higher-tier accounts offer more features — more ATM withdrawals without fees, higher daily transfer limits, and access to premium customer service. If you are just starting out or want a basic account, Advantage Banking is the most common choice. If you already have a Bank of America savings account or mortgage, Advantage Relationship Banking may waive fees more easily because your combined balances count toward the minimum.

How to open an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Bank of America mobile app. Select the checking account type you want, then enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will verify your identity using this data — the process usually takes a few minutes.

Next, choose your initial deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or (if you are opening the account in a branch) deposit cash. After you confirm your deposit, Bank of America will show you your new account number. Your account is typically active for online banking within a few hours, though transfers from other banks may take one to three business days to clear.

Opening an account by phone or in a branch

To open an account by phone, call 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to open a checking account. Have your ID, Social Security number, and deposit method ready. The representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form, verify your identity, and process your deposit. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

If you prefer to open an account in person, visit any Bank of America branch with your government-issued ID and your initial deposit. A banker will help you choose an account type, complete the paperwork, and process your deposit on the spot. Your account becomes active immediately for in-branch deposits, though you may need to wait for the debit card to arrive by mail (usually five to seven business days).

What happens after you open your account

Your checking account number appears immediately after you finish the application. You can use this number to set up direct deposit or transfers from another bank right away. However, your account may not be fully active for all transactions until one to three business days have passed — Bank of America uses this time to verify your identity and process your initial deposit.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within five to seven business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your account number and PIN, or transfer money online. If you need cash before your card arrives, visit a branch and ask a banker to withdraw funds from your new account.

Reasons Bank of America might decline your application

Bank of America uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to review new account applications. If you have unpaid overdrafts, multiple closed accounts due to negative balances, or fraud on your record, your application may be declined. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com to see what Bank of America sees.

Other reasons for decline include providing false information, having an active fraud investigation, or being on the OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) list. If your application is declined, Bank of America will send you a letter explaining why. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report, or wait six months to 12 months and reapply if the issue was a temporary problem like unpaid overdrafts that you have now resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Bank of America will open an account for non-citizens if you have a valid passport or other government-issued ID and a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Some branches may ask for additional documentation, so call ahead if you are unsure.

Can I open a checking account if I am under 18?

Yes, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-own the account. Bank of America offers student checking accounts designed for minors, which typically have lower fees and no minimum balance requirement. Visit a branch with your parent and both of your IDs to open a student account.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Bank of America debit cards typically arrive within five to seven business days of opening your account. If you need cash before your card arrives, you can withdraw money at any Bank of America ATM using your account number and PIN, or visit a branch and ask a teller to withdraw funds for you.

What is the minimum opening deposit for Bank of America checking?

It depends on the account type. Advantage Banking has no minimum opening deposit requirement. Advantage Plus Banking and Advantage Relationship Banking may require $100 or more, depending on current promotions. Check the Bank of America website or call 1-800-432-1000 to confirm the current minimum for the account you want.

Can I open multiple checking accounts at Bank of America?

Yes. You can open as many checking accounts as you want at Bank of America, and each account has its own number and debit card. Some people open separate accounts for different purposes — one for bills, one for savings, one for a side business. Each account is subject to the same monthly fees and minimum balance requirements.