Documents and information Bank of America asks for

Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking or savings account. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days—something with your name and address printed on it.

You will also need to bring a small amount of money to fund the account. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type: some checking accounts require $25, while others require $100 or more. Savings accounts typically start at $25. If you are opening an account online or by phone, you can fund it with a debit card, credit card, or transfer from another bank account.

If you do not have a Social Security number, Bank of America can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you will need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation. Non-U.S. citizens may also open accounts with a valid passport and visa.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of current address—all three are required before Bank of America will open an account.
  • Proof of address must be a document dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease, with your name and address on it.
  • Opening deposits range from $25 to $100 depending on the account type, and you can fund the account online with a debit card or transfer from another bank.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, but you must open the account in person at a branch with extra documents.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walking into a Bank of America branch with your ID, Social Security number, and address proof is the most straightforward route. A banker will review your documents, ask about the type of account you want (checking, savings, or both), and answer questions about fees and features. The whole process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring the original documents, not copies. Bank of America staff will verify your ID and may make a copy of your address proof for their records. Have your opening deposit ready—cash, a debit card, or a check from another account all work. You will receive a debit card on the spot or within a few business days, depending on the branch.

Opening an account online

Bank of America allows you to start the account opening process on their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address, then upload photos of your ID and address proof using your phone or computer camera. The photos must be clear and show all four corners of each document.

After you submit the documents, Bank of America reviews them, which usually takes one to two business days. You will receive an email or text confirming whether your account is open. Once approved, you can fund the account immediately using a debit card or external bank transfer, and you can start using mobile banking right away. Your physical debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If Bank of America cannot read your uploaded documents clearly, they will ask you to resubmit them or visit a branch in person to verify your identity.

What happens if you do not have all the documents

If you do not have a government photo ID, Bank of America will not open an account. A photo ID is non-negotiable. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain a state ID card or passport first—your local DMV or passport office can help with that.

If you do not have proof of address dated within the last 60 days, ask Bank of America whether they will accept an alternative, such as a recent bank statement from another institution, a lease agreement, or a government letter with your name and address. Bring whatever you have to a branch and ask; some branches have flexibility, though policy varies.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN if you have one. If you have neither, you cannot open a standard Bank of America account. Some banks offer accounts for non-citizens without an SSN or ITIN, but Bank of America does not.

Fees and account types to know before you open

Bank of America charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts—typically $12—unless you meet certain conditions, such as maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account. Some accounts waive the fee if you are under 25 or a student. Savings accounts usually have a $5 monthly fee with similar waiver options.

Before you open, ask the banker or check the Bank of America website to see which account type fits your situation. A student checking account, for example, has no monthly fee if you are enrolled in school. An eChecking account has no minimum balance requirement but does charge the monthly fee unless you waive it. Knowing the fee structure before you fund the account helps you choose the right product.

What to expect after your account opens

Once your account is open, you can use online banking, mobile banking, and ATMs immediately. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you opened online, or you may receive it in the branch if you opened in person. You can request a rush card delivery for a fee if you need it sooner.

Bank of America will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about setting up direct deposit or transfers. You can start receiving paychecks or making transfers to your account as soon as you have the account number, even before your debit card arrives.

If you opened the account online and Bank of America needs to verify anything else, they will contact you by email or phone. Check your email and spam folder regularly during the first week after opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account without a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You must open the account in person at a branch and bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and address proof. Bank of America does not accept accounts opened without either an SSN or ITIN.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The online application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Bank of America then reviews your documents within one to two business days. Once approved, your account is active immediately, though your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Bank of America prefers documents dated within the last 60 days, but you can ask a banker whether they will accept an older document or an alternative, such as a lease or government letter. Policies vary by branch, so visiting in person gives you the best chance of finding a solution.

Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?

Most Bank of America checking accounts do not require a minimum balance to keep the account open, but they do charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you waive it through direct deposit, linked savings, or other methods. Check the specific account terms before opening to understand what waives the fee for your situation.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. Bank of America requires you to open the account yourself and verify your identity with your own documents. A parent or guardian cannot open an account on your behalf, though minors can open accounts with a parent or guardian present at a branch.