Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts online without visiting a branch
Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online using a computer or their mobile app. 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 have access to your account immediately after approval, though some features like debit card ordering happen in the next step.
Not every account type can be opened online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products still require a branch visit or phone call. If you're opening an account for a minor, you'll need to do that in person with the minor present.
Key Takeaways
- Checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes with an ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.
- Your account becomes active immediately, but your debit card ships separately and arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
- You need a valid government ID and a Social Security number to complete the online process.
- Money Market accounts and accounts for minors require a branch visit or phone call instead.
- Bank of America will verify your identity during signup, which may include a security question or a small deposit verification.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your account online: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. Bank of America will ask for your employment information, but you don't need to have a job to open an account.
You'll also need an initial deposit. The minimum varies by account type—checking accounts typically require $0 to $100, while savings accounts may require $0 to $300. You can fund the account with a debit card, credit card, or by transferring money from another bank account. If you transfer from another bank, that transfer can take 1 to 3 business days to show up.
The online signup process step by step
Start at bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app. Look for "Open an account" or "Sign up" and select the account type you want—Checking or Savings. You'll enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.
Bank of America will then verify your identity. This usually means answering security questions based on your credit history, or they may ask you to verify a small deposit they send to an existing bank account you own. Once verified, you'll choose your account settings (overdraft protection, paperless statements, etc.), set up online banking login credentials, and make your initial deposit.
After you submit, you'll see a confirmation screen with your new account number. Your account is now open and you can log in to online banking immediately. Your physical debit card ships within 1 to 2 business days and arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
What happens if identity verification fails
If Bank of America cannot verify your identity online, they'll ask you to visit a branch in person or call their customer service line at 1-800-432-1000. Bring your government ID and Social Security card (or a document with your Social Security number). This usually takes one visit to complete.
Verification can fail if your credit history is too thin, if you've recently moved, or if there's a mismatch between the information you provided and what's on file with credit bureaus. This is not a rejection—it's a security step. Once you verify in person or by phone, your account opens immediately.
Accessing your account before your debit card arrives
Your account is fully functional online and through the mobile app the moment it opens. You can transfer money between accounts, set up bill pay, deposit checks using mobile check deposit, and manage your account settings. You can also visit any Bank of America branch and withdraw cash using your account number, even before your debit card arrives.
If you need cash immediately and don't want to visit a branch, you can transfer money to another bank account you own and withdraw from there. That transfer takes 1 to 3 business days depending on the receiving bank.
Account types you can and cannot open online
| Account Type | Online Signup Available | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Checking | Yes | N/A |
| Savings | Yes | N/A |
| Money Market | No | Call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch |
| Account for a minor | No | Visit a branch with the minor present |
| Business accounts | No | Call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch |
Fees and minimum balances
Bank of America checking accounts have no monthly maintenance fee if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep $250 in a linked savings account. If you don't meet any of these, the monthly fee is $12.
Savings accounts have no monthly fee regardless of balance. However, if you exceed six withdrawals per month from a savings account, Bank of America charges $10 for each withdrawal over six. This limit applies to transfers and online withdrawals, not in-person withdrawals at a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open an account online?
The signup process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account opens immediately after you submit, but identity verification can add another 5 to 10 minutes if Bank of America asks security questions. If verification fails and you need to call or visit a branch, that adds 1 to 2 business days.
Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all account holders. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you'll need to call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch to discuss other options.
What if I'm opening an account for my child?
Accounts for minors cannot be opened online. You'll need to visit a Bank of America branch with the minor present and a government ID for both of you. The minor must be at least 13 years old to have their own account; younger children can be added as authorized users on a parent's account.
Do I need to have a Bank of America account already to open a new one?
No. You can open your first Bank of America account online without having any prior relationship with the bank. You'll just need to fund it with a debit card, credit card, or transfer from another bank.
What if I make a mistake during signup?
If you notice an error after your account opens, log into online banking and update your information, or call 1-800-432-1000. If the error is in your name or Social Security number, you may need to visit a branch to correct it, depending on how significant the mistake is.