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 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
- Checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes using a valid ID and Social Security number.
- You need to verify your identity during signup, usually through a phone call, text message, or email confirmation.
- Your account is typically ready to use the same day, though transfers from other banks may take 1 to 3 business days to clear.
- Some account types, including Money Market accounts, require a phone call or branch visit instead of online signup.
- If you have an existing Bank of America account, you can open additional accounts faster because verification is simpler.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Bank of America will ask for your address and phone number as well.
You will also need a way to receive a verification code. Bank of America typically sends this by text message or email. If you do not have a working phone number or email, you will need to call customer service or visit a branch instead.
If you are opening an account with someone else — for example, a joint account with a spouse — both people need to be present during the online process and both will need to verify their identity separately.
The steps to open an account online
Go to bankofamerica.com and click the link to open a new account. You will be asked to choose between checking, savings, or money market products. Select the account type you want.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will ask whether you are a U.S. citizen and whether you have an existing account with them. Answer honestly — the bank verifies this information against government records.
Next, you will receive a verification code by text or email. Enter this code to confirm your identity. Some applicants are asked to answer security questions or provide additional information at this step.
Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign the agreement electronically. You will receive a confirmation number and your account number immediately. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
When your account is ready to use
Your account is active the same day you open it. You can log into online banking and set up bill pay, transfers, and alerts right away. You can also use your account number to set up direct deposit before your debit card arrives.
If you are transferring money from another bank, that transfer typically takes 1 to 3 business days to complete, depending on the other bank's processing speed. Bank of America does not charge a fee for incoming transfers, but your previous bank may.
Your debit card will arrive by mail. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to receive deposits or pay bills online. You cannot withdraw cash at an ATM or make purchases in stores until your card arrives.
Account types you cannot open online
Money Market accounts, CDs (certificates of deposit), and some specialty accounts must be opened by phone or in person. If you want one of these products, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a local branch.
Business accounts also require a phone call or branch visit. You will need to provide your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number, business license or formation documents, and information about the business owners.
What happens if verification fails
If Bank of America cannot verify your identity online, you will be asked to call customer service or visit a branch to complete the process. This usually happens if your information does not match government records, if you have a name change on file, or if there is a discrepancy in your address history.
Bring your ID and Social Security card with you if you visit a branch. A representative can resolve the issue in person and open your account immediately. If you call, the process may take a few extra days while the bank verifies additional information.
If you have been flagged for fraud concerns or have a history of account problems with Bank of America, the bank may decline to open an account online and require you to speak with a manager in person.
Fees and minimum balances
Bank of America's checking and savings accounts have different fee structures depending on which product you choose. Some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee; others waive it if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Review the fee schedule before you finish opening your account — it is shown in the disclosures you sign.
Minimum opening deposit requirements vary by account type. Some accounts require $25 to open; others have no minimum. The amount you need to deposit will be shown during the signup process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Bank of America account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. You will need to call customer service or visit a branch to open an account with an ITIN.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Bank of America offers expedited card delivery for an additional fee if you need it sooner. You can request expedited delivery during signup or by calling customer service after your account opens.
Can I open an account if I have been denied by another bank?
Bank of America does not automatically deny accounts based on previous denials from other banks. However, the bank checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, and may decline if you have unresolved issues like unpaid overdrafts or fraud. You can request your ChexSystems report to see what is on file.
What if I want to add someone else to my account after I open it?
You can add a joint account holder by visiting a branch or calling customer service. Both people will need to verify their identity. Online account opening does not support adding a second person after the account is created.
Do I need to have money in my account before I open it?
No. You can open an account with zero dollars. However, some account types have a minimum opening deposit, which will be shown during signup. You can deposit money immediately after opening or wait until your first paycheck arrives.