What you need to open a Bank of America account
Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount varies by account type—some accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $25 or more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.
The entire process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and Social Security number in person. Bank of America will run a soft credit check and verify your identity through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check does not affect your credit score.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Bank of America account online, by phone, or in a branch using your ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
- Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account immediately with a debit card or transfer from another bank.
- Bank of America checks your banking history through ChexSystems but does not run a hard credit inquiry that affects your credit score.
- Different account types have different deposit minimums and monthly fees, which you can compare on the Bank of America website before you choose.
Opening an account online
Go to bankofamerica.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will ask for your driver's license or state ID number and issue date.
Next, you will verify your identity. Bank of America may ask you to answer security questions based on your credit history, or they may send a code to your phone or email. Once verified, you will set up your username and password, then choose how to fund the account. You can link a debit card, provide routing and account numbers from another bank, or choose to deposit cash at a branch later. The account opens immediately, and you can start using it the same day.
Opening an account by phone
Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to open an account over the phone. Have your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit method ready. A representative will walk you through the same information you would enter online: personal details, identity verification, and funding method. The call typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.
Phone representatives can answer questions about account types and fees in real time, which some people prefer. After the call ends, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number and login details. You can log in to your account online or through the Bank of America mobile app right away.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Visit your nearest Bank of America branch with your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. Bring a debit card, checkbook, or cash. A banker will review account options with you, answer questions about fees and features, and complete the paperwork. The process takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Opening in person is useful if you want to deposit cash immediately or if you prefer to ask questions face-to-face. You will receive your debit card at the branch or it will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your account is active the same day, even if your card has not arrived yet.
Account types and what they cost
Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different features and fees. The Advantage SafePass Checking account has no monthly maintenance fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a $1,500 minimum balance. The Advantage Plus Checking account costs $12 per month unless you meet the same conditions. Savings accounts typically have no monthly fee but earn interest on your balance.
Review the current account options on bankofamerica.com before you open, because fees and requirements change. Pay attention to overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the Bank of America network, and whether the account earns interest. Some accounts waive fees for students or customers under 25.
What happens after you open your account
Your account is ready to use immediately, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your temporary card number from your online account, or you can visit a branch. You can also set up transfers, bill pay, and mobile deposits through the Bank of America app or website right away.
If you opened online or by phone, you will receive a welcome packet by mail with your debit card, checks (if you ordered them), and account information. Activate your debit card through the app or website before using it. Set up direct deposit if your employer offers it—this waives monthly fees on many checking accounts and gets your paycheck into your account faster.
What to do if you cannot open an account
Bank of America may decline to open an account if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated bounced checks at other banks. If this happens, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. You can dispute inaccurate information in your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or chexsystems.com.
If you have been denied, ask Bank of America whether you can reapply after a certain period or whether a different account type is available. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts for people with banking history issues. Credit unions and online banks may also have fewer restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Bank of America account without a Social Security number?
No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. This is a federal requirement for all U.S. banks. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead of a Social Security number.
How much money do I need to open an account?
Most Bank of America accounts require $0 to open, though some require a $25 minimum deposit. Check the specific account type you want before you start the process. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.
Can I open an account if I am under 18?
Bank of America allows minors to open accounts, but a parent or guardian must be present and sign the paperwork. The adult becomes a joint account holder. You can open the account online, by phone, or in person with the adult's ID and Social Security number as well as your own.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your temporary card number through the app or visit a branch to withdraw cash before your physical card arrives. Activate your card through the app or website as soon as it arrives.
What if I made a mistake on my application?
Contact Bank of America right away at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch. If you entered the wrong address, phone number, or other information, a representative can correct it before your account is fully set up. If the account is already open, you can update your information through online banking or at a branch.