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 through their website or mobile app. 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 on file with them already. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, and your account is typically ready to use the same day.

Not every account type is available online. If you want a specialized account — like a CDs (certificates of deposit), a brokerage account, or a business account — you may need to start online but finish in a branch or over the phone. The standard checking and savings accounts work entirely online.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking or savings account on Bank of America's website or mobile app in about 10 minutes with an ID and Social Security number.
  • Your account is usually active the same day, though transfers from other banks may take one to three business days to clear.
  • Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity during signup, typically by confirming a phone number or email they have on record.
  • Some account types — like business accounts or CDs — require a phone call or branch visit to complete.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your account: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your current address. You will also need a way to fund the account — either a debit card from another bank or routing and account numbers if you want to transfer money from an existing account.

If you are a new Bank of America customer, the verification step may ask you security questions based on your credit history or public records. This is normal and takes a few minutes. If you already have a Bank of America account or credit card, the process is faster because they already have your information on file.

The step-by-step process

Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer" and select the account type you want — checking, savings, or both. Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number.

Bank of America will then ask you to verify your identity. This usually means confirming a phone number or email address they have associated with you, or answering security questions. Once verified, you will choose your account features — overdraft protection, linked accounts, or paperless statements — and review the account terms.

At the end, you will fund your account. You can link a debit card from another bank and transfer money immediately, or provide your routing and account number to transfer from an existing account (which takes one to three business days). Some customers fund with as little as $25, though Bank of America does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking and savings accounts.

When your account is ready to use

Your account number and routing number are available immediately after you finish the online signup. You can start using your account right away to set up direct deposit or bill pay. However, if you funded the account with a transfer from another bank, that money will not arrive for one to three business days.

A debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your account number and PIN, or use your account for online transfers and bill payments.

Account types you can open online

Checking accounts come in a few versions: the basic Checking account, the Advantage Checking account (which has a higher monthly fee but waives it if you maintain a minimum balance), and the Premium Checking account. All three can be opened online.

Savings accounts include the regular Savings account and the Premium Savings account. Both are available online. Bank of America also offers money market accounts, which function like savings accounts but may have higher interest rates — these can also be opened online.

If you want a CD (certificate of deposit), you will need to call Bank of America or visit a branch to complete the account. The same applies to business accounts, investment accounts, and credit cards — you can start the process online, but you will need to finish by phone or in person.

What happens if verification fails

If Bank of America cannot verify your identity online, they will ask you to visit a branch in person or call their customer service line. Bring your government ID and Social Security card. This usually happens if your information does not match what they have on file, or if you are a first-time customer with no credit history they can check.

If you have a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit report, Bank of America may not be able to verify you online. You can temporarily lift the freeze through the credit bureau that placed it, or go to a branch and verify in person with your ID.

Monthly fees and minimum balances

Bank of America's basic Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or set up direct deposit. If you do neither, the monthly fee is $12. The Advantage Checking account charges $15 per month unless you keep $2,500 in the account or have a may have access to direct deposit.

Savings accounts have no monthly fee. Money market accounts may have a monthly fee depending on the balance you maintain. These fees and minimums can change, so review the current terms on Bank of America's website before you open your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. You will still need a valid government ID.

What if I do not have a government ID?

You will need to visit a Bank of America branch in person. Bring your passport, state ID, or driver's license. If you do not have any of these, call Bank of America customer service to ask what documents they will accept.

Can I open an account on my phone?

Yes. The Bank of America mobile app has the same account opening process as the website. Download the app, tap "Open an Account," and follow the same steps. Your account will work the same way whether you opened it on your phone or computer.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Debit cards arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account at ATMs and for online transfers before the card arrives. If you need cash immediately, visit a Bank of America branch and ask for a temporary card or withdrawal.

Can I open an account if I have been denied before?

Bank of America uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen new customers. If you were denied in the past, you can still try again — your history may have improved, or the reason for denial may no longer apply. If you are denied again, ask Bank of America which reason they cited so you can address it.