What You Need to Start a Bank of America Account

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in a branch. You will need a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount depends on the account type—some accounts have no minimum, while others require $100 or more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you open in person.

The entire process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online. Bank of America will verify your identity and run a check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. If you have had problems with a previous bank account—such as unpaid overdrafts or fraud—that history may show up and could delay or prevent approval. You can ask Bank of America directly if you are unsure whether your history will be a problem.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start an account online or in a branch.
  • Bank of America checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so past account problems may affect approval.
  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account immediately with a debit card or transfer.
  • Different account types have different fees and minimum balances, so compare checking and savings options before you choose.
  • If you are denied, you can ask Bank of America why and may be able to reapply after addressing the issue.

Opening 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 both. Bank of America will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and phone number. Have your ID ready—the system may ask you to verify information from it, such as your driver's license number or state ID number.

Next, you will choose your opening deposit method. You can link a debit card from another bank and transfer money immediately, or you can set up an external transfer from a checking or savings account at another bank (this usually takes one to three business days). Some branches also let you deposit cash in person after you open the account online.

Once Bank of America approves your identity and ChexSystems check, your account is active. You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers, or you can visit a branch to withdraw cash.

Opening an Account at a Bank of America Branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID, Social Security number, and your opening deposit (cash or debit card). A banker will help you choose an account type and fill out the paperwork. The process is the same as online, but you get immediate help if you have questions or if there is a problem with your identity verification.

If you open in person, you can get a temporary debit card on the spot in some branches, or you can use your account number to withdraw cash that day. Your permanent card will still arrive by mail. Opening in a branch is useful if you want to ask questions about account features, fees, or which account type fits your situation.

Account Types and What They Cost

Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different fees and features. Checking accounts typically charge a monthly maintenance fee (usually $12) unless you meet certain conditions, such as keeping a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a linked savings account. Savings accounts also have monthly fees that are waived if you maintain a minimum balance or link them to a checking account.

Some accounts have no monthly fee at all—these are often called basic or student accounts. Bank of America also offers accounts with higher interest rates on savings if you maintain larger balances. Compare the account options on the Bank of America website or ask a banker in person to understand which fees apply to you and what you can do to avoid them.

What Happens If Bank of America Denies Your Account

Bank of America may deny your account if ChexSystems shows a serious problem, such as unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated account closures due to negative balances. If this happens, Bank of America will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.

You can contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or visit chexsystems.com to see your report and file a dispute if information is wrong. If the problem is unpaid overdrafts or fees, you may be able to pay them and reapply after 30 to 90 days. Some people in this situation open accounts at banks or credit unions that do not use ChexSystems, though these accounts may have higher fees or stricter limits.

Funding Your New Account and Using It Right Away

Once your account is open, you can fund it in several ways. A debit card transfer is the fastest—money appears in your account within minutes. An external transfer from another bank takes one to three business days. If you opened in a branch, you can deposit cash immediately. You can also set up direct deposit from your employer or other income source, which usually takes one to two pay periods to start.

Your account number and routing number are available as soon as your account is approved, even before your debit card arrives. You can use these to set up bill payments, transfers, or direct deposit. Bank of America's routing number is 026009593 for most accounts, though some regions use different numbers—check your account details online or call 1-800-432-1000 to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account if I do not have a Social Security number?

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 it instead. Call 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether your situation qualifies.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to make transfers or set up direct deposit before the card arrives. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot.

What if I have a ChexSystems problem from years ago?

ChexSystems records stay on file for five years. If the problem is old, Bank of America may still deny you, but you can dispute the record if it is inaccurate or if you have paid off the debt. Contact ChexSystems to request your report and file a dispute if needed.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees?

It depends on the account type. Some checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you keep $500 or more, set up direct deposit, or link a savings account. Others have no minimum. Check your account details online or ask a banker which conditions apply to your account.

Can I open an account for someone else, like a child or elderly parent?

You can open a joint account with another adult if you both provide ID and Social Security numbers. For a minor, you can open a custodial account where you are the parent or guardian. Call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch to ask about options for your situation.