What you need to open a Bank of America account
Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The minimum deposit varies by account type — some accounts require $25, others require $100 or more. You will also need a current mailing address.
You can open an account in person at a Bank of America branch, online through their website, or by phone. Each route has different requirements and takes different amounts of time. In-person is fastest if you have all documents ready. Online takes a few minutes but may require you to verify your identity afterward.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though some account types may not be available to you. Bring documentation of your ITIN when you visit a branch.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, proof of address, and an initial deposit to open any Bank of America account.
- Opening in person at a branch is the fastest method and lets you ask questions about which account fits your needs.
- Online account opening takes minutes but requires you to verify your identity through a follow-up process within a few days.
- Minimum deposits range from $25 to $100 depending on the account type, and some accounts waive monthly fees if you meet balance or deposit requirements.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID, Social Security number, proof of address (a recent utility bill or lease works), and the money for your initial deposit. A banker will ask you which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both — and will explain the features and fees of each. This conversation usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
Bring your original documents, not copies. The banker will verify your identity by looking at your ID and will record your Social Security number. If you are opening an account for a minor, you will need to be present as the parent or legal guardian, and the child does not need their own ID.
Your account opens immediately. You will receive a debit card, checks (if you opened checking), and online banking access on the same day. You can start using your account right away, though your debit card may take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail if the branch does not issue it on the spot.
Opening an account online
Go to bankofamerica.com and click the link to open a new account. You will enter your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information. The process takes about 10 minutes. You will choose your account type and make your initial deposit using a debit card or bank transfer.
After you submit your application, Bank of America will send you an email asking you to verify your identity. This usually happens within a few hours. You will be asked to confirm information they have on file or to upload a photo of your ID. Some applicants are asked to verify their identity by phone instead.
Once your identity is verified, your account opens and you can log in to online banking immediately. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can request a temporary digital card number to use online while you wait for the physical card.
Opening an account by phone
Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form — name, address, Social Security number, and employment information. You will need to have your ID and initial deposit information ready.
Phone opening takes about 20 minutes. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. Your account opens immediately, and you will receive a confirmation number. Your debit card and welcome materials will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
This method works well if you prefer to talk to a person or if you have questions about which account type to choose. However, you cannot make your initial deposit over the phone — you will need to transfer money from another bank account or provide a debit card number.
Documents and information to have ready
| Document or Information | Why Bank of America needs it | Acceptable forms |
|---|---|---|
| Government photo ID | To verify you are who you say you are | Driver's license, passport, state ID card, military ID |
| Social Security number | To check your credit history and prevent fraud | Your SSN or ITIN if you do not have an SSN |
| Proof of address | To confirm where you live | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days |
| Initial deposit | To fund your new account | Debit card, bank transfer, or cash (in person only) |
| Employment information | For account records (not required for all accounts) | Employer name and your job title |
Account types and minimum deposits
Checking accounts at Bank of America start with a $25 minimum deposit for the Basic Checking account. This account has a monthly fee of $12, but the fee is waived if you keep a $1,500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The Advantage Checking account requires a $100 minimum deposit and has a $15 monthly fee, waived with a $1,500 balance or direct deposit.
Savings accounts require a $25 minimum deposit. The regular savings account charges $5 per month if your balance drops below $300. A Money Market Savings account requires a $2,500 minimum deposit but offers higher interest rates.
Many people open both checking and savings at the same time. If you do, you only need to provide your documents once, and both accounts open in the same visit or application.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is active immediately, but you will not have a physical debit card for 7 to 10 business days. If you opened online or by phone, you can request a temporary digital card number to use for online shopping and bill payments while you wait. If you opened in person, ask the banker whether they can issue a card on the spot.
You will receive a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking. Set up your online login as soon as you receive it so you can check your balance and make transfers. You can also download the Bank of America mobile app and log in with the same username and password.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer will need your account number and routing number. Both are printed on your welcome materials and are also visible in your online banking portal. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Bank of America account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring your ITIN documentation to a branch, or mention it when opening online or by phone. Some account types may have restrictions for ITIN holders, so ask the banker which accounts are available to you.
What if I do not have a government photo ID?
Bank of America requires a photo ID to open an account. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This usually takes one to two weeks. Until then, you cannot open an account.
Can I open an account for someone else?
No, not as the sole account holder. If you are opening an account for a minor, you must be present and will be listed as the parent or guardian on the account. If you want to open an account for an adult, they must be present in person or complete the online application themselves.
Do I have to keep a minimum balance after I open the account?
The minimum balance requirement depends on your account type. Basic Checking requires $1,500 to waive the monthly fee, but you can keep a lower balance and pay the fee instead. Savings accounts charge a fee if your balance drops below $300. Check your account agreement to see the exact requirements for your account.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person: 15 to 20 minutes, account opens immediately. Online: 10 minutes to apply, identity verification within a few hours, account opens same day. By phone: 20 minutes, account opens immediately. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days regardless of which method you use.