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 if you have the documents ready. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address Bank of America can reach you at.

Not every account type is available online. Specialty accounts like CDs (certificates of deposit) or certain investment accounts require a phone call or branch visit. But the standard checking and savings accounts that most people use can be opened entirely through the website or mobile app.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's online account opening takes about 10 minutes and requires a valid ID, Social Security number, and contact information.
  • Checking and savings accounts can be opened online, but some specialty products like CDs require a phone call or branch visit.
  • You will need to verify your identity during the process, which Bank of America does through a phone call, text message, or email link.
  • Your account becomes active when ready after approval, though you may need to wait for a debit card to arrive by mail before you can use it at stores.
  • If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second one online is faster because the bank already has your information on file.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your current address. Bank of America will ask for your phone number and email address during the process, so have those ready too.

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's online process does not support minor accounts, so you will need to visit a branch or call 1-800-432-1000 to set one up.

The steps to open an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and click "Open an Account" at the top of the page. Select the account type you want — checking, savings, or both. Bank of America will ask you to choose a specific product within each category (for example, Advantage Checking or Regular Savings), so read the features and fees for each one before you decide.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Then provide your Social Security number. Bank of America will run a background check at this point using a service called ChexSystems, which tracks banking history. If you have had problems with a previous bank account (overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees), this check may flag your process.

Next, Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity. The bank offers several methods: a phone call to a number you provide, a text message with a code you enter, or an email link you click. Choose whichever is fastest for you. The verification usually takes less than a minute.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign electronically. Your account is now open. Bank of America will send you a debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can transfer money into your account and pay bills online, but you cannot use the card at stores or ATMs.

What happens if the online process rejects you

Bank of America may decline your process if ChexSystems flags your banking history or if the identity verification fails. If this happens, the bank will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.

If you were rejected, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and ask about opening an account by phone with a representative. Some applicants who are declined online can still open an account this way, especially if the issue was a failed identity verification rather than a ChexSystems problem. A representative can also walk you through fixing errors on your report before you try again.

Timing: when your account is actually usable

Your account becomes active when ready after you complete the online process. You can log in, set up bill pay, and transfer money right away. However, the debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail, so you cannot use it at stores or ATMs until then.

If you need a debit card faster, visit a Bank of America branch and ask for an expedited card. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot, though this varies by location. You can also use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.

Opening a second account if you already bank with Bank of America

If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second one online is faster. The bank already has your ID and Social Security number on file, so you skip some verification steps. Log into your existing account, go to the accounts section, and look for "Open a New Account." You may still need to verify your identity, but the process usually takes 5 minutes instead of 10.

Bank of America allows you to have multiple checking and savings accounts. There is no limit on the number of accounts, though each one counts separately toward any monthly fees. If you are opening a second account to avoid fees on the first one, read the fee structure carefully — sometimes consolidating into one account with a higher balance is cheaper than maintaining two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to deposit money when ready after opening the account?

No. Your account is open and active whether or not you deposit anything. However, some Bank of America checking accounts require a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees, so check your account terms. If your account has a monthly fee and you do not meet the minimum balance requirement, the fee will be charged even if the account is empty.

Can I open a Bank of America account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bank of America requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN but no Social Security number, you can still open an account, but you will need to call 1-800-432-1000 to do it — the online process does not accept ITINs.

What if the identity verification fails during the online process?

If the phone call, text, or email verification does not work, Bank of America will ask you to try again or choose a different method. If all methods fail, you can visit a branch in person with your ID and open the account there. Bring your Social Security number and current address proof (a utility bill or lease works).

Can I open a Bank of America account on my phone?

Yes. The Bank of America mobile app has the same account opening process as the website. read the app, tap "Open an Account," and follow the same steps. The mobile process is identical to the online version — it takes about 10 minutes and uses the same identity verification methods.

What if I live outside the United States?

Bank of America does not open accounts for people living outside the U.S., even if they are U.S. citizens. If you are a U.S. citizen living abroad, you will need to visit a Bank of America branch in the U.S. or call to discuss your options. Some international locations have Bank of America offices, but they handle existing accounts only, not new openings.