Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts online, but the process and what you can do when ready depend on the account type

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online through their website or mobile app. You do not need to visit a branch. The account opens in minutes, but you cannot deposit money or use the card until you complete a few more steps — usually within one to three business days.

The speed and what you can access right away varies. If you already bank with Bank of America, opening a second account online is faster. If you are new to the bank, you will need to verify your identity, which adds a day or two. Some account types require a minimum opening deposit; others do not.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start the account opening process online in minutes, but the account does not become fully active until Bank of America verifies your identity, which usually takes one to three business days.
  • New customers must provide a Social Security number, date of birth, and a government-issued ID; existing Bank of America customers can open accounts faster because the bank already has this information.
  • Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit (often $100 to $500), while others have no minimum, so check the specific account terms before you start.
  • You can set up direct deposit and bill pay while the account is pending, but you cannot use a debit card or withdraw money until the account is fully active.

What you need to open an account online

Bank of America will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and a government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Have these ready before you start. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

If you are opening your first Bank of America account, the bank will also ask about your employment and income. This is standard anti-money-laundering verification, not a credit check. They do not pull your credit report, so opening an account does not affect your credit score.

If you already have a Bank of America account, you can skip most of this. The bank already has your information on file, and you can open a second account in just a few minutes.

The timeline from start to using your account

When you submit your process online, Bank of America usually approves it within minutes. You will see a confirmation number and temporary account number. But the account is not yet active for deposits or withdrawals.

Next comes identity verification. Bank of America may ask you to confirm information, upload a photo of your ID, or answer security questions based on your credit history. This step usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Once verified, your account becomes active.

If you set up direct deposit during the process, your employer can start sending paychecks to your new account when ready — even while it is pending. The deposit will land once the account is active. If you need to deposit cash or checks before the account is fully active, you will need to visit a branch or use a Bank of America ATM once the account is live.

Minimum opening deposits and account types

Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts online. The Advantage SafePass Checking account has no minimum opening deposit. The Advantage Plus Checking account requires $500. The Premium Rewards Checking account requires $10,000.

Savings accounts also vary. The Regular Savings account has no minimum. The Money Market Savings account requires $2,500. Check the current terms on Bank of America's website, because minimums and features change.

If you do not have the minimum deposit ready, you can still open the account online — the bank will not reject your process. But you must deposit the minimum before you can use certain features or avoid monthly fees. Some accounts waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit of at least $250 per month.

What you can and cannot do while your account is pending

While your account is being verified (usually one to three days), you can set up direct deposit, schedule bill payments, and link external accounts. You cannot withdraw money, use a debit card, or make transfers until the account is fully active.

If you need cash when ready, you will have to visit a Bank of America branch or ATM once the account is active. Some branches can expedite the process if you bring your ID in person, but this defeats the purpose of opening online.

If your process is denied or delayed

Bank of America may deny your process if you have unpaid overdrafts at another bank, a history of fraud, or a ChexSystems report (a banking history report similar to a credit report). The bank will send you a letter explaining the reason.

If your process is delayed beyond three business days, contact Bank of America directly. Call the number on your confirmation email or visit a branch with your ID. Delays usually mean the bank needs more information to verify your identity — for example, if your address does not match your ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open the account, or just to keep it open?

It depends on the account. Some accounts have no minimum to open or maintain. Others require a minimum opening deposit (usually $100 to $500) and charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below a certain amount. Check the account terms before you explore.

Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all personal accounts. If you are a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), but this requires visiting a branch in person.

What if I already have a Bank of America account and want to open another one?

The process is much faster. You can open a second account online in a few minutes because the bank already has your identity verified. The new account is usually active within one business day.

Can I use my debit card before the account is fully active?

No. Your debit card will not work until the account is fully active, which usually takes one to three business days. You can request expedited set up by visiting a branch in person with your ID.

What happens if I do not have the minimum deposit right now?

You can still open the account online. You will need to deposit the minimum before the account is fully usable or before monthly fees kick in. Some accounts waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit of $250 or more per month.