What you need to open a Bank of America account

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account online, on a mobile app, 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 to start. 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 or on the app. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and Social Security number in person. Bank of America will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database, to verify you have not had serious account problems at other banks. Most people pass this check without issue.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open an account online, through the mobile app, or at a branch using a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
  • Online and app openings take 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using the account the same day in most cases.
  • Bank of America checks your banking history through ChexSystems; a past account closure or fraud flag may delay or block approval.
  • Monthly maintenance fees vary by account type, and some accounts waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
  • You can add a debit card during signup or request one after your account opens; the card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account online or through the mobile app

Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app and select "Open an Account." Choose the account type—checking, savings, or both. You will be asked for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Have your ID ready; you may need to photograph it or verify information from it during the process.

Next, choose your initial deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account (this takes one to three business days), use a debit card to fund the account immediately, or arrange to deposit cash at a branch. Bank of America will also ask whether you want a debit card and whether you want paperless statements. Once you submit, the system will check your identity and banking history. Most people receive approval within minutes.

After approval, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can use these details to set up direct deposit or transfers right away. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your account number and ID, or transfer money online.

Opening an account at a Bank of America branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch with your valid ID and Social Security number. Tell a representative you want to open a checking or savings account. They will ask the same questions as the online form: name, address, phone, email, and Social Security number. Bring your ID so they can verify your information.

The representative will explain the account options and fees, then ask how you want to fund the account. You can transfer from another bank, use a debit card, or deposit cash on the spot. The account opens immediately, and you will receive a temporary debit card at the branch or a permanent one by mail within 7 to 10 days. Ask the representative for your account number and routing number before you leave so you can set up direct deposit or bill pay right away.

Account types and monthly fees

Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different features and fees. Advantage SafePass Checking has no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account with $500. Advantage Plus Checking costs $12 per month unless you meet the same conditions. Premium Rewards Checking is designed for customers who want cash back on debit card purchases and requires a $2,500 minimum balance to waive the $20 monthly fee.

Savings accounts include Advantage Savings, which charges $5 per month unless you keep a $500 minimum balance or link it to a checking account. Premium Savings costs $25 per month but waives the fee with a $10,000 minimum balance. Interest rates on savings accounts vary and change based on Federal Reserve decisions; check the Bank of America website for current rates. Many customers open both a checking and savings account to avoid fees on both.

What happens if your application is denied or delayed

Bank of America may deny your application if ChexSystems shows a serious problem: unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or an account closure due to misconduct. If this happens, you will receive a letter explaining the reason and instructions to contact ChexSystems directly. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by visiting chexsystems.com or calling 1-800-428-9623.

If your application is delayed, it usually means Bank of America needs to verify your identity further. Check your email for a message asking you to confirm information or upload additional documents. Respond as quickly as possible; delays typically resolve within one to three business days. If you have questions about your application status, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch.

Setting up direct deposit and bill pay after opening

Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit so your paycheck or government benefits deposit automatically. Log into your Bank of America account online or on the app, go to "Transfers & Payments," and select "Direct Deposit." You will see your account number and routing number (021000021 for most Bank of America accounts). Give these details to your employer or benefits provider. Direct deposit usually starts within one to two pay periods.

You can also set up bill pay to send money to creditors, utilities, or other payees. In the same "Transfers & Payments" section, select "Bill Pay" and add the companies you want to pay. Bank of America will mail a check or transfer the money electronically, depending on the payee. Payments typically arrive within one to three business days. Set up alerts so you know when payments are sent and when money is due.

Adding authorized users and linking accounts

If you want someone else to access your account—a spouse, adult child, or trusted family member—you can add them as an authorized user. Log into your account online or on the app, go to "Account Services," and select "Add an Authorized User." You will need their name, date of birth, and Social Security number. They will receive their own debit card and can access the account online, but you remain responsible for all activity.

You can also link multiple Bank of America accounts together so you can transfer money between them instantly. In the app or online, go to "Transfers & Payments" and select "Link Accounts." You can move money between your checking and savings, or between accounts you own and accounts you manage for someone else. Linked accounts make it easier to manage money across multiple purposes—one account for bills, one for savings, one for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can withdraw cash at Bank of America ATMs using your account number and ID before the card arrives. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot if you open in person.

What if I close my Bank of America account and want to reopen one later?

You can reopen an account as long as you did not close it due to fraud or misconduct. If ChexSystems shows a negative mark, you may need to wait or dispute the information before Bank of America will let you open a new account. Contact ChexSystems to check your record.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No. The person whose name is on the account must be present (in person or online) to verify their identity. You cannot open an account on behalf of another adult. Parents can open accounts for minors, but the minor's Social Security number and birth certificate are required.

What is the difference between a checking and savings account?

Checking accounts are for frequent deposits and withdrawals—paying bills, receiving paychecks, everyday spending. Savings accounts earn interest and are meant for money you want to keep. Bank of America lets you open both at the same time, and linking them can help you avoid monthly fees.