Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts online without visiting a branch
Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online using a computer or their mobile app. You will not need to go to a physical branch, though you will need to verify your identity and provide some basic information before the account becomes active.
The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you have the right documents ready. Your new account number and routing number arrive when ready, so you can start using it the same day in many cases — though transfers from other banks may take a few business days to clear.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a checking or savings account online using a computer, tablet, or the Bank of America mobile app without visiting a branch.
- You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a current address to complete the online process.
- Bank of America verifies your identity during signup, sometimes by asking security questions or sending a code to your phone or email.
- Your account opens when ready after verification, and you can receive your debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Some account types, like certain investment or business accounts, still require a branch visit or phone call to complete.
What documents and information you need to have ready
Before you start, gather a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need your Social Security number and your current home address. Bank of America uses this information to verify who you are and to check you against fraud databases.
Have your phone number and email address handy as well. Bank of America uses these to send you verification codes during the signup process and to contact you about your account later. If you are opening an account with money from another bank, you will also need the routing number and account number from that bank, though you can add this information after your account opens.
The actual steps to open your account online
Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app. Look for a button or link that says "Open an Account" — it is usually on the homepage. Select whether you want a checking account, savings account, or both. Bank of America offers several versions of each, so you will see a list with names like "Advantage Checking" or "Regular Savings." Read the descriptions to see which one fits your needs, or choose the basic option if you are new to banking.
Enter your personal information: first and last name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Bank of America will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Make this password something you can remember but others cannot guess — use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols if possible.
Bank of America will then verify your identity. This usually happens one of three ways: they may ask you security questions based on your credit history, send a one-time code to your phone via text message, or send a code to your email. Answer the questions or enter the code they send you. Once verification is complete, your account opens when ready and you receive an account number and routing number right away.
When your debit card and checks arrive
Your debit card ships by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for transfers and bill payments before the card arrives — you do not have to wait. If you need to withdraw cash before the card comes, you can visit any Bank of America branch and ask a teller to help you, or you can use ATMs that are part of the Bank of America network.
If you ordered checks, they arrive separately and may take longer. Many people no longer use checks for everyday spending, so you may not need them at all. You can always order checks later through your online banking account if you change your mind.
What happens if Bank of America cannot verify your identity online
If the online verification process does not work — for example, if your information does not match what Bank of America finds in their records — you will be asked to visit a branch in person or call their customer service line to finish opening your account. This is more common if you are new to the United States, have recently moved, or have a name that is very common.
Bring your government ID and Social Security card (or a document with your Social Security number) to the branch. A banker can verify your identity face-to-face and complete your account opening on the spot. The whole process takes about 15 minutes. If you prefer to call instead, Bank of America's phone number is on their website, and a representative can walk you through verification over the phone.
Account types you cannot open online
Most checking and savings accounts open online, but some products do not. Business accounts, investment accounts, and certain specialty accounts still require a phone call or branch visit. If you are opening an account for a business, you will need to call Bank of America or visit a branch with your business license or formation documents.
If you are unsure whether the account type you want can be opened online, start the online process and Bank of America will tell you if you need to finish it another way. You will not be charged for stopping partway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have money in the account right away?
No. You can open the account with zero dollars. However, some account types have a minimum balance requirement to avoid a monthly fee — Bank of America will show you these requirements before you finish opening the account. You can deposit money anytime after your account opens, either by transferring from another bank or by visiting a branch to deposit cash or a check.
Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Bank of America requires a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you do not have either, you will need to visit a branch and speak with a banker about your options. Some branches can help you understand what documents you need.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will not be able to open an account online without a valid government-issued ID. Visit a Bank of America branch with whatever ID documents you do have — a passport from your home country, a state ID, or a driver's license — and a banker can help you determine whether you can open an account and what additional steps you may need.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
Bank of America allows you to open a joint account online, but both account holders must complete the verification process separately. Start the account opening, and when you reach the step for adding another person, Bank of America will send them a link to verify their identity. Both of you must finish before the account fully opens.
Is my money safe in an account I open online?
Yes. An account opened online is just as safe and insured as one opened in a branch. Bank of America is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), which means your money is protected up to $250,000 per account type. This protection applies whether you opened your account online, by phone, or in person.