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 requires a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type). You'll have a working account number and routing number the same day, though the account won't be fully active for transactions until the next business day.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products still require a branch visit or a phone call to open. If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second one online is faster because the system already has your identity verified.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking or savings account online at bankofamerica.com or through the mobile app in about 10 minutes.
  • You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit amount that depends on the account type you choose.
  • Your account number and routing number are available when ready, but you cannot use the account for transactions until the next business day.
  • If you do not have a government ID or Social Security number, you will need to visit a branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to open an account.

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, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of the front and back, or by answering security questions about your credit history.

You also need your Social Security number and the initial deposit amount. The minimum deposit varies: checking accounts typically require $100 to $500 depending on the specific product, and savings accounts may have a lower minimum. You can fund the account with a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.

If you are opening an account as a minor (under 18), a parent or guardian must be present and will need to provide their own ID and Social Security number. Bank of America offers teen checking accounts that require an adult co-owner.

The step-by-step process

Go to bankofamerica.com and click "Open an Account," or use the Bank of America mobile app. Select the account type you want — most people choose either a Basic Checking account or a Savings account. The system will ask for your name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth.

Next, you will provide your Social Security number and answer identity verification questions. Bank of America pulls information from credit bureaus to confirm who you are. If you have limited credit history, the system may ask you to upload a photo of your ID instead. This step usually takes 2 to 3 minutes.

Then you will choose how to fund the account. If you use a debit card or another bank account, the transfer happens when ready. If you use a wire transfer, funds arrive within one to two business days. After you confirm the initial deposit amount, you will set up online banking login credentials and review the account terms.

Once you submit, you will see your account number and routing number on screen. You can use these to set up direct deposit or transfers right away. The account itself becomes active for all transactions the next business day.

What happens if identity verification fails

If Bank of America cannot verify your identity online, you have two options. You can visit a local branch with your ID and Social Security card, and a banker will complete the account opening in person. This takes about 15 minutes and requires no additional documents beyond what you already have.

Alternatively, you can call 1-800-432-1000 and speak to a representative who can walk you through phone-based verification. This usually involves answering detailed questions about your credit history, previous addresses, or past financial accounts. The call typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes, and your account will be opened by the end of the conversation.

If you do not have a Social Security number — for example, if you are a non-citizen — you will need to open the account at a branch. Bring your passport or visa and ask about accounts for non-citizens or ITIN holders. Bank of America does offer these, but they must be opened in person.

Account types available online

Bank of America's Basic Checking account is the most common choice for online opening. It has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The Advantage Checking account costs $12 per month but waives the fee if you keep $1,500 in the account or have a may have access to direct deposit.

Savings accounts come in two versions: the Basic Savings account and the Advantage Savings account. Both earn interest, though the rate is low. The Advantage version waives the monthly fee with a $300 minimum balance. You can open either one online in the same process as checking.

Money Market accounts, CDs, and investment accounts cannot be opened online. If you want one of these, you will need to call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch. Some specialty accounts for students or seniors also require a branch visit, though the online system will tell you this before you finish the process.

Timing and what to expect after opening

Your account is live for transactions the next business day after you open it. If you open on a Friday, the account becomes active on Monday. If you open on a weekend, it becomes active on Monday. Holidays delay this by one day.

You can set up direct deposit when ready using your account number and routing number, even before the account is fully active. Your employer or benefit provider can begin depositing to the account right away. Transfers from other banks take one to three business days to arrive, depending on the sending bank.

If you need a debit card, you can order one during the account opening process. It will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can use your account number to make online purchases or set up bill pay through the Bank of America website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open an account online?

No, but non-citizens must open accounts in person at a branch. Bring your passport or visa and ask about accounts for non-citizens or ITIN holders. Bank of America has these products available, but the system cannot verify non-citizen identity online.

Can I open an account if I have been denied by ChexSystems?

ChexSystems is a checking account verification service. If you are flagged in ChexSystems, the online system will likely reject your process. Call 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your situation with a representative, who may be able to open an account for you over the phone or direct you to a branch.

What if I do not have an initial deposit right now?

Bank of America requires an initial deposit to open an account online. The minimum is typically $100 to $500 depending on the account type. If you cannot deposit when ready, you can visit a branch — some branches may waive the initial deposit requirement, though this varies by location.

Can I open a joint account online?

No, joint accounts must be opened at a branch or by phone. Both account owners need to be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number. Call 1-800-432-1000 to open a joint account, or visit your nearest Bank of America branch.

Will opening an account online affect my credit score?

No. Bank of America performs a soft credit inquiry during online account opening, which does not affect your credit score. A soft inquiry is used only to verify your identity, not to assess your creditworthiness.