Bank of America requires you to be at least 18 years old to open a checking account in your own name

If you are 18 or older, you can walk into a Bank of America branch or explore online and open a standard checking account by yourself. You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type, but some accounts have no minimum). The account opens in your name alone, and you control it.

If you are under 18, you cannot open an account by yourself. Bank of America offers a SafePass Student Checking account designed for teenagers, but it requires a parent or guardian to open it with you and co-own the account. The adult remains on the account and can see all transactions, though they can set limits on what you can spend.

If you are between 13 and 17, you are may be able to access for SafePass. If you are under 13, Bank of America does not offer an account option at this time.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 to open a checking account in your own name at Bank of America; under 18 requires a parent or guardian to co-own the account.
  • SafePass Student Checking is available for ages 13 to 17 and requires a parent or guardian to open it with you.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open any account.
  • You can open a standard checking account online or in a branch if you meet the age and documentation requirements.

What you need to bring if you are 18 or older

To open a checking account at Bank of America as an adult, bring a valid government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card). You will also need your Social Security number. Bank of America will verify both before the account opens.

You will need to make an initial deposit. The amount depends on which checking account you choose. Some accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, while others ask for $100 or more. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account.

If you open the account online, you can upload a photo of your ID instead of showing it in person. The process typically takes a few minutes, and your account number appears on screen once verification is complete.

How SafePass Student Checking works if you are under 18

SafePass is a joint account: you and your parent or guardian both own it and both appear on the account documents. The adult can see all deposits and withdrawals, set daily spending limits, and control whether you can use the debit card for online purchases or ATM withdrawals. You can still make deposits and check your balance.

To open SafePass, the adult must come to a Bank of America branch with you. Bring the same documents you would for a standard account: your ID, your Social Security number, and the adult's ID and Social Security number. An initial deposit is required, though the minimum is often lower for student accounts than for standard checking.

Once the account is open, you receive a debit card in your name. You can use it at Bank of America ATMs and at merchants that accept Visa. The adult can change the spending limits or restrictions at any time by logging into their online banking or calling the bank.

The difference between opening online and in a branch

Opening online is faster if you have all your documents ready. You upload a photo of your ID, enter your Social Security number, and choose your account type. Bank of America verifies your identity while you wait, usually within minutes. You can fund the account by transferring money from another bank or by providing a check to deposit.

Opening in a branch takes longer but may feel more straightforward if you have questions. A banker can walk you through the account options, explain the fees and features, and help you decide which account fits your situation. You can deposit cash when ready, which some people prefer if they do not have another bank account to transfer from.

If you are under 18 opening a SafePass account, you must go to a branch. Bank of America does not offer online opening for joint accounts, because the adult needs to sign documents in person.

Account types available and what they cost

Bank of America offers several checking accounts, and the one you can open depends on your age and whether you are opening alone or with a parent. For adults, the main options are Advantage Banking (which has a monthly fee unless you meet certain balance or deposit requirements) and Interest Checking (which earns a small amount of interest but has higher balance requirements). Some accounts have no monthly fee at all if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

SafePass Student Checking typically has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement, making it the lowest-cost option for teenagers. The adult on the account can upgrade to a different account type later if needed.

All checking accounts come with a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to set up bill pay. Fees for overdrafts, out-of-network ATM use, or other services vary by account type. When you open an account, ask the banker or review the disclosure document online to see the full fee schedule.

What happens after your account opens

Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw money at a Bank of America ATM using your account number, or you can visit a branch and withdraw cash with your ID. You can also set up transfers to other accounts or pay bills online as soon as the account is active.

If you opened the account online, you can log into your account when ready and see your balance. If you opened in a branch, the banker will give you your account number and temporary access information before you leave.

If you are under 18 with a SafePass account, the adult can log in to their own online banking and see the account from there. You can also set up your own login if the adult allows it, though they will still have full visibility and control.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 to open any account. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open an account. The process takes a few weeks. Some branches may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in limited circumstances, so call your local branch to ask.

What if my parent will not let me have a debit card on the SafePass account?

The adult can open a SafePass account without issuing a debit card to you. You would be able to make deposits and check your balance online or in person, but you would not be able to spend money directly. The adult can add a debit card later if they change their mind.

Can I convert my SafePass account to a regular checking account when I turn 18?

Yes. When you turn 18, you can visit a branch or call Bank of America and ask to convert the account. The adult will no longer be a co-owner, and you will have full control. The account number and routing number stay the same, so any automatic payments or direct deposits do not need to change.

Do I need to go to a specific branch, or can I open an account at any Bank of America location?

You can open an account at any Bank of America branch. If you are opening online, location does not matter. If you are opening in person or opening a SafePass account with a parent, any branch in the country can help you.

What if I do not have a government-issued ID?

Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can obtain a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The process typically takes a few weeks. Until then, you cannot open an account.