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 through their website or mobile app. The process takes about 10 minutes if your information is ready. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
Not every account type is available online. Some specialty accounts, like certain business accounts or accounts for people under 18, require a branch visit or phone call. But the most common accounts—Basic Checking, Advantage Checking, Savings, and Money Market—can all be opened from your computer or phone.
The account opens immediately after you complete the application and verify your identity. You can start using it the same day, though transfers from other banks may take a few business days to arrive.
Key Takeaways
- You can open checking and savings accounts online using Bank of America's website or app, and the account becomes active the same day.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, another bank account, or wire transfer.
- The online process takes about 10 minutes and includes an identity verification step that happens immediately.
- Some account types, including accounts for minors and certain business accounts, cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone call.
What documents and information you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online application. Having them ready speeds up the process and prevents you from getting stuck halfway through.
You need a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will ask you to provide the ID number and expiration date. You also need your Social Security number and your date of birth. Have your current address ready, including your zip code.
For funding the account, you have three options: a debit card from another bank, login credentials for another bank account, or a wire transfer. If you use a debit card, have the card number, expiration date, and CVV ready. If you link another bank account, you'll need that bank's routing number and your account number. If you plan to wire money, you can do that after the account opens.
The step-by-step process for opening an account online
Start at bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app. Look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Select the type of account you want—checking, savings, or Money Market. Bank of America will show you the features and monthly fees for each option.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Bank of America will ask whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have an existing Bank of America account. Answer honestly—if you already have an account, you may not be able to open another one of the same type.
Next comes identity verification. Bank of America uses a process called knowledge-based authentication, which means they ask you questions about your credit history that only you should know. These questions are based on public records and credit bureau data. Answer them correctly and your identity is verified immediately. If you fail this step, you'll be directed to call a Bank of America representative or visit a branch.
Choose how you want to fund the account. If you use a debit card or link another bank account, the money transfers immediately. Bank of America will then show you your new account number and routing number. You can set up direct deposit, transfers, or bill pay right away.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is live the moment you finish the application. You can log in to your account online, set up a PIN for the ATM, and start using your account number for direct deposit or transfers. However, you won't have a physical debit card yet.
Bank of America mails a debit card to your address within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through ATMs using your PIN, or through transfers and bill pay online. If you need a card sooner, you can visit a Bank of America branch and ask for a temporary card or expedited shipping.
If you funded the account with a debit card or linked bank account, that money is available immediately. If you wired money or transferred from another bank, it may take 1 to 3 business days to show up, depending on the sending bank.
Account types you cannot open online
Bank of America does not allow online opening for accounts held by minors (anyone under 18). A parent or guardian must visit a branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to open a student checking account or savings account for a child. The minor does not need to be present, but the parent will need to verify their own identity.
Business accounts, including sole proprietorships and LLCs, cannot be opened online. You'll need to visit a branch with your business license, EIN, and personal ID. Some specialty accounts, like trust accounts or accounts for non-U.S. residents, also require a branch visit or phone call.
If you're not sure whether your account type can be opened online, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 before you start the application. They can tell you which route to take.
What to do if identity verification fails
If Bank of America's knowledge-based questions reject your identity, you have two options. You can call 1-800-432-1000 and speak to a representative, who will verify your identity over the phone using different questions. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes and often succeeds when the online questions don't.
Your other option is to visit a Bank of America branch in person with your government ID and Social Security card. Bring a recent utility bill or lease as proof of address. A branch employee can open the account on the spot and issue you a temporary debit card if you need one immediately.
If you've been rejected and are unsure why, ask the representative or branch employee whether there's a fraud flag on your Social Security number or credit report. This is rare but does happen, and it can be cleared by contacting the credit bureaus or the Federal Trade Commission.
Fees and minimum balances for online accounts
Bank of America charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts—typically $12 per month for Basic Checking and $15 per month for Advantage Checking. However, you can waive the fee by maintaining a minimum daily balance (usually $500 to $1,500, depending on the account) or by setting up direct deposit.
Savings accounts have no monthly fee, but they earn interest at a rate that varies based on the Federal Reserve's current rates. Money Market accounts have higher minimum balances—usually $2,500—but earn higher interest rates.
When you open the account online, Bank of America will show you the current fee structure and minimum balance requirements for the account type you choose. Read this carefully before you fund the account, because some fees apply immediately even if your balance is low.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Bank of America account online?
The application itself takes about 10 minutes. Identity verification happens immediately, and your account becomes active the same day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account online and at ATMs before the card arrives.
Can I open a Bank of America account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all personal accounts. If you're a non-U.S. resident or don't have an SSN, you'll need to visit a branch and speak to a representative about alternative options, though availability varies by location.
What if I don't have another bank account or debit card to fund my new account?
You can complete the online application without funding it immediately, then visit a Bank of America branch or ATM to deposit cash after the account opens. You can also arrange a wire transfer from another source once your account number is active.
Can I open a joint account online with Bank of America?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to verify their identity in person or over the phone. One person can start the application online, but the second person must complete their portion through a phone call or branch visit.
What if I already have a Bank of America account and want to open another one?
Bank of America generally limits customers to one checking account and one savings account. If you try to open a second account of the same type, the application will be rejected. Contact Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your options.