Yes, you can open a Bank of America checking account entirely online

Bank of America lets you open a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The whole 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.

The account opens when ready after you finish the online steps, though there is a waiting period before you can use certain features like mobile check deposit or transferring money out. During this time, Bank of America verifies your identity and checks your banking history.

Key Takeaways

  • You can complete the entire signup process online using a computer or the Bank of America mobile app, and your account opens the same day.
  • You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit — the minimum varies by account type but is often $0 for online accounts.
  • Bank of America places a hold on certain features like mobile check deposit and outgoing transfers for a few days while they verify your identity.
  • If you are denied, Bank of America will tell you why — usually because of a prior banking problem or identity verification issue — and you can ask to reopen the conversation.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Bank of America will ask for your address during signup, and they may ask you to upload a photo of an ID or a recent utility bill to confirm it matches.

You will also need a way to fund your account. This can be a debit card from another bank, a checking or savings account number, or you can ask someone to send you money using a transfer service. Bank of America does not require a minimum opening deposit for most online checking accounts, though some account types do.

The step-by-step process

Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America app and look for "Open an account" or "New customer." You will be asked to choose which type of checking account you want — Bank of America offers several, and the differences are mainly in monthly fees and rewards. For most people starting out, the basic checking account is the right choice.

Next, you will enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will ask you to create a username and password. Then you will answer security questions and confirm your identity — this usually happens right away, either by matching information they already have or by asking you to upload a photo of your ID.

After identity verification, you will fund your account. Enter a debit card number, another bank account, or wait for someone to send you money. Once you submit this information, your account is open and you can use it when ready for deposits and transfers within Bank of America.

What happens after you finish signing up

Your account number and routing number appear on screen as soon as you finish. You can use these right away to receive deposits — for example, if your employer needs to set up direct deposit. However, Bank of America temporarily restricts some features while they complete their verification process, which usually takes one to three business days.

During this time, you cannot deposit checks using your phone, transfer money to accounts outside Bank of America, or withdraw cash at an ATM outside the Bank of America network. You can still use your debit card to make purchases and withdraw cash at Bank of America ATMs. Once verification is complete, all features unlock.

If Bank of America denies your account

Bank of America will tell you when ready if they cannot open an account for you. The most common reasons are a prior banking problem (like unpaid fees or fraud), a mismatch between the information you provided and what they found, or an issue with identity verification.

If you are denied, ask Bank of America why. If it is an identity issue, you may be able to upload different documents or call their customer service line to clarify. If it is a banking history issue, you can ask whether you are may be able to access to reopen an account after a waiting period — some banks have policies that allow this after a year or two.

Alternatives if you cannot open an account online

If Bank of America denies you online, you can visit a branch in person. A banker can sometimes override an online denial or help you resolve the issue that caused it. Bring the same documents you would use online: ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.

If Bank of America is not an option, other banks and credit unions offer online checking accounts with lower barriers to entry. Some specialize in people rebuilding their banking history or those without a Social Security number. A local credit union or community bank may also be willing to work with you in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Bank of America mails debit cards to the address you provided during signup. Delivery usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to make online purchases or set up direct deposit before the card arrives.

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

Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. Some other banks and credit unions have accounts for people without either.

What if I cannot verify my identity online?

If the online verification fails, you can visit a Bank of America branch with your ID and documents. A banker can verify you in person and open your account. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open the account?

Most Bank of America checking accounts opened online do not require a minimum opening deposit. However, some account types do, and this information appears before you finish signing up. You can always fund your account later if you want to wait.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. Bank of America requires you to open your own account and verify your identity yourself. A parent or guardian cannot open an account in your name, though they may be able to add you as an authorized user on their account if you are under 18.