Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts entirely online

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund your account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a transfer from someone else.

Not every account type is available online. If you want a specialized account like a student checking account or a retirement account, you may need to visit a branch or call to complete the setup. The basic checking and savings accounts that most people use are fully available online.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Bank of America checking or savings account online using a computer or mobile app, and the account becomes active the same day.
  • You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund your account — such as a debit card or existing bank account.
  • The online process takes about 10 minutes and requires you to verify your identity through Bank of America's security system.
  • Some account types, like student or retirement accounts, may require you to visit a branch or speak with a representative by phone.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Bank of America will ask you to verify information from this ID during signup.

You also need your Social Security number. Bank of America uses this to check your identity and to report your account to credit bureaus. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot open an account online, though you may be able to visit a branch to explore other options.

Finally, you need a way to fund your account. You can use a debit card from another bank, provide your checking or savings account number from another bank, or have someone transfer money to you. Bank of America does not require a minimum opening deposit, but you will need to add some money to set up the account.

The steps to open an account online

Go to the Bank of America website or open the mobile app. Look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide" — it is usually on the homepage. You will be asked to choose between a checking account, savings account, or both.

Bank of America will then ask you to enter personal information: your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Next comes your Social Security number and driver's license or ID information. The system will verify this information in real time.

After verification, you will choose your account features — things like overdraft protection or paperless statements. Then you will fund your account by entering a debit card number or linking another bank account. Bank of America will send a confirmation email, and your account number appears on screen when ready. You can use your debit card or set up transfers right away, though your physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

When you might need to visit a branch instead

Most people can complete the entire process online, but some situations require a branch visit or phone call. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to open the account with you in person at a branch. Bank of America does not allow minors to open accounts online.

If you are opening a student checking account, a retirement account, or a business account, you may need to speak with a representative. Some of these accounts have extra requirements or paperwork that the online system cannot handle. Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether your account type is available online, or visit a local branch to ask in person.

If you do not have a Social Security number or a valid government ID, you will also need to visit a branch. Bank of America has options for people in this situation, but they require a conversation with a banker.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active when ready, and you can log in to move money and set up bill pay right away. Your temporary debit card number appears in the app so you can make online purchases before your physical card arrives. You can also transfer money from another bank account or have direct deposit set up.

Your physical debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Checks, if you ordered them, take 1 to 2 weeks. Until your card arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up transfers, or use your temporary card number for online shopping.

Bank of America will send you a welcome email with your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up online banking. Save this email or write down these numbers — you will need them to set up direct deposit or transfer money from other banks.

Fees and account requirements

Bank of America checking and savings accounts have different fee structures depending on which account you choose. Some accounts charge a monthly fee if you do not meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Other accounts have no monthly fee at all.

When you open your account online, Bank of America will show you the fee schedule for the account you are choosing. Read this carefully before you finish — it tells you exactly what you will be charged and what you can do to avoid fees. You can change your account type later if you find a different one works better for you.

Bank of America also offers overdraft protection, which means the bank can cover a purchase if you do not have enough money in your account. This costs money — usually $35 per overdraft — so you can turn this off if you prefer to have purchases declined instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. Your account becomes active when ready, though your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and temporary card number right away.

Can I open an account if I have bad credit?

Bank of America does not check your credit score to open a checking or savings account. However, the bank does check ChexSystems, a banking history database, to see if you have had problems with other banks. If you have been flagged in ChexSystems, you may be denied, but you can dispute inaccurate information.

What if I do not have a debit card to fund my account?

You can link another bank account instead and transfer money from there. You can also have someone else send you money using a wire transfer or by writing you a check. Bank of America will tell you the routing number and account number to give them.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No, joint accounts require both people to verify their identity in person at a branch or over the phone with a representative. You can open an individual account online, and the other person can be added later, but the initial setup must involve both account holders.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You can open an account if you have a valid government ID and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some people without these documents can visit a branch to explore other options, but the online process requires one of these forms of identification.