Yes, you can open a Bank of America checking account entirely online
Bank of America lets you open most checking accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can fund the account immediately. 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 the bank.
Not every account type is available online. Some specialty accounts or accounts for business use require a branch visit or a phone call. But the standard checking accounts—like the Bank of America Checking and the Bank of America Advantage Checking—can be opened from your computer or phone.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Bank of America checking account online using their website or mobile app in about 10 minutes.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a way to receive a verification code by phone or email.
- You can fund the account immediately with a transfer from another bank account or a debit card.
- Some account types, such as business accounts, require you to visit a branch or call customer service instead.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online application. You will need your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and your date of birth. Bank of America will also ask for your current address and phone number.
If you want to fund the account right away, have the routing and account number of another bank account ready, or have a debit card available. You do not need an existing Bank of America account to open a new one online.
The online application process step by step
Go to the Bank of America website or open the mobile app and select "Open an account." Choose the checking account type you want—usually Bank of America Checking or Advantage Checking. Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email address.
Bank of America will send a verification code to your phone or email. Enter that code to confirm your identity. Review the account terms and fee schedule, then agree to them. At this point, the account is open.
You can then fund the account by linking another bank account (using its routing and account number) or by entering a debit card. Transfers from another bank account typically arrive within one to two business days. Debit card funding is usually instant, but some banks hold the funds for a day or two before they appear in your Bank of America account.
When you cannot open an account online
Business checking accounts, accounts for minors, and some specialty accounts must be opened in a branch or over the phone. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to open the account with you, and this usually requires an in-person visit.
If you have had fraud or overdraft issues with Bank of America in the past, the bank may require you to call customer service or visit a branch to verify your identity in person. You can call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether your situation requires a branch visit.
Funding your new account
You have two main ways to put money into your new checking account. The first is to link another bank account and transfer money from it. This is free and takes one to two business days. The second is to use a debit card, which is instant but may be held by your bank for a day or two before it clears.
You can also deposit cash or checks at a Bank of America ATM or branch once your account is open. ATM deposits are usually available within one business day. If you deposit a check at a branch, it may clear the same day or the next business day, depending on the time you deposit it.
What happens after your account opens
Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account online or in the app immediately, even before the card arrives. You can set up direct deposit, pay bills online, transfer money to other accounts, and make purchases with your card number if you add it to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Bank of America will send you account statements by email or mail, depending on what you choose during setup. You can change this preference anytime in your account settings. If you have questions about your new account, you can call customer service at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch.
Monthly fees and minimum balance requirements
Bank of America Checking has a monthly maintenance fee that varies by state, usually between $12 and $15. You can waive this fee by keeping a minimum daily balance (often $1,500 to $2,500, depending on your state) or by setting up direct deposit of at least $250 per month.
Bank of America Advantage Checking also has a monthly fee, typically $10 to $15, with similar ways to waive it. Some accounts have no monthly fee if you meet certain conditions, such as maintaining a higher balance or having a linked savings account. Check the fee schedule for your state during the application process to see which account makes sense for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Bank of America checking account online?
The application itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens immediately after you verify your identity with the code sent to your phone or email. You can start using it right away, though your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
Do I need an existing Bank of America account to open a checking account online?
No. You can open a checking account as a new customer entirely online. You do not need to have a savings account, credit card, or any other Bank of America product first.
What if I do not have a government ID?
Bank of America requires a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with alternative forms of identification, such as a passport or state ID. Call 1-800-432-1000 to ask what documents the branch will accept.
Can I open a joint checking account online?
Joint accounts typically require both account holders to verify their identity, which can be done online if both people have the required documents. However, some branches prefer to open joint accounts in person. Start the online application and see whether the system allows both people to verify; if not, you can call customer service or visit a branch.
What if my online application is denied?
Bank of America will tell you why your application was denied. Common reasons include a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or issues with ChexSystems (a banking history report). You can call 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your situation and ask whether you can open an account in a branch instead.