Yes, you can open a Bank of America checking account in person, online, or by phone

Bank of America offers several checking account options for people who are new to banking or returning after a gap. You can start the process online in about 10 minutes, finish it in a branch with a banker, or do it entirely by phone. The bank does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though some accounts have monthly fees you can avoid by meeting straightforward requirements like setting up direct deposit.

The main thing to know upfront: Bank of America will check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks past account problems like overdrafts or fraud. If you have never had a bank account before, this check will come back clear and you will have no issue. If you closed an account badly years ago, that history may still show up, but it does not automatically disqualify you — the bank looks at how long ago it happened and what the problem was.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking account online, in a Bank of America branch, or by calling 1-800-432-1000, and the process takes 10 to 20 minutes.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which can be as little as $25 for some accounts, though many have no minimum).
  • Bank of America checks your banking history through ChexSystems, but a clear history or old problems do not automatically stop you from opening an account.
  • Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 depending on the account type, but most fees are waived if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance.
  • Your account can be opened the same day online or in branch, and your debit card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What you need to bring or have ready

Gather these items before you start, whether you are going online, to a branch, or calling:

  • A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card)
  • Your Social Security number
  • Your current address
  • A phone number and email address
  • An initial deposit amount (the minimum varies by account type, but many accounts have no minimum)

If you are opening the account online or by phone, you will also need a way to fund it — a debit card from another bank, a transfer from another account, or a check you can deposit through the mobile app. If you are opening in a branch, you can hand the banker cash or a check.

If you do not have a government ID yet, you can still open an account in person at a branch with other documents like a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. Call your local branch first to ask what they will accept, since rules can vary slightly by location.

Opening an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. The online form will ask for your personal information, ID details, and Social Security number. You will choose which checking account you want — Bank of America offers several types, and the form will explain the differences and any monthly fees.

Once you submit the form, the bank will check your identity and your ChexSystems history. If everything clears, you will see a confirmation screen with your new account number within minutes. You can then set up online banking and a mobile app login right away, and you can start moving money into the account when ready through a transfer or check deposit.

Your debit card will be mailed to you and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money between accounts.

Opening an account in a Bank of America branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. Tell the banker you want to open a checking account. They will ask you the same questions the online form does, but they can answer questions about the different account types and help you pick the one that fits your situation.

The banker will run the same ChexSystems check and identity verification. If you pass, your account opens the same day. You will leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready, and your permanent card arrives by mail within a week or two.

Opening in person is helpful if you have questions, if you want to deposit cash right away, or if you are uncomfortable with online forms. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

Opening an account by phone

Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to open a checking account. They will walk you through the same questions and can explain the account options. You will need to verify your identity and provide your Social Security number over the phone.

Once the account is open, the representative will tell you how to fund it — usually by transferring money from another account or by mailing a check. Your debit card will arrive by mail, and you can set up online banking when ready so you can use your account while you wait for the physical card.

Understanding Bank of America checking account types and fees

Bank of America offers several checking accounts. The most common for people new to banking are the Advantage SafeBalance Banking account (designed for people rebuilding their banking history, with no overdraft fees) and the Advantage Plus Banking account (a standard checking account with overdraft protection options).

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 depending on the account. Most fees are waived if you set up direct deposit, keep a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), or maintain a linked savings account. Ask the banker or representative which waiver option is easiest for your situation — direct deposit is the most common and requires no balance.

All Bank of America checking accounts come with online banking, a mobile app, access to ATMs, and the ability to write checks. Some accounts include overdraft protection, which means the bank can cover a purchase if you do not have enough money in your account (though you will pay a fee). The SafeBalance account does not include overdraft protection, which makes it a good choice if you want to avoid surprise fees while you are learning to manage your account.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, set up online banking and the mobile app right away. This lets you check your balance, transfer money, deposit checks by taking a photo, and pay bills without going to a branch. You can also set up direct deposit so your paycheck goes straight into your account — this is the easiest way to waive monthly fees.

Your debit card will arrive by mail. When it does, set up it through the app or by calling the number on the back of the card. You can then use it to withdraw cash from ATMs, make purchases, and pay bills online.

If you have questions after opening your account, you can visit a branch, call 1-800-432-1000, or use the chat feature in the mobile app. Bank of America also offers free financial education resources on their website if you want to learn more about budgeting, saving, or managing debt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if Bank of America says I have a ChexSystems problem?

Ask the banker or representative what the problem is. If it is an old closed account with unpaid fees, you may be able to settle it and then open a new account. If it is fraud or a serious issue, the bank may decline, but you can ask to speak with a manager or try again in a few months. You can also check your own ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com to see what is showing up.

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

You will need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, bring documentation of it to a branch or mention it when you call. Some branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others, so call ahead to confirm your local branch can help.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?

Most Bank of America checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit, though some accounts may ask for $25. Once your account is open, you can deposit as little as you want. Check the specific account details when you start the process to see what that account requires.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card is mailed to you and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to set up direct deposit or make online transfers before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a banker in a branch about expedited options.

Can I open an account if I have had problems with banks before?

Yes. Bank of America's SafeBalance account is specifically designed for people rebuilding their banking history. It has no overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirement, and no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit. This account gives you a fresh start without the risk of surprise charges.