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 process takes about 10 minutes and requires basic information: your Social Security number, a valid ID, your address, and a funding source (another bank account or debit card). You'll need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The account opens when ready after you complete the online steps, though some features—like the ability to deposit checks by phone—may take a day or two to set up. You can start using the account right away if you fund it during signup.

Key Takeaways

  • The entire signup process happens on Bank of America's website or mobile app and takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.
  • You need a Social Security number, valid government ID, current address, and a way to fund the account (another bank account or debit card).
  • Your account is active when ready, but you won't receive your debit card by mail for 7 to 10 business days.
  • Bank of America charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts unless you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open the account. You'll need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will ask you to verify information from it, so have it nearby.

You also need your Social Security number and your current mailing address. Bank of America will send your debit card and other materials to this address, so make sure it's correct.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account. You can link an existing bank account and transfer money, or use a debit card. The initial deposit can be as small as $25, though Bank of America does not require a minimum to open the account.

The step-by-step process

Go to bankofamerica.com and click "Open an account" or use the Bank of America mobile app. Select "Checking" from the account type options. The site will ask you to choose which checking product you want—Bank of America offers several versions with different features and fee structures.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Bank of America will verify your identity using this information and may ask security questions based on your credit history.

Next, choose how you want to fund the account. If you link another bank account, you'll enter the routing number and account number. If you use a debit card, you'll enter the card number and expiration date. Bank of America will process the transfer when ready or within one business day, depending on your bank.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign electronically. Your account opens right away. You'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Your physical debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Bank of America charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts—typically $12 per month. You can waive this fee in several ways: maintain a minimum daily balance (usually $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the account type), set up direct deposit of your paycheck, or link the account to a Bank of America savings account with a minimum balance.

Some checking products have no monthly fee regardless of balance. The eChecking account, for example, has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement. It has fewer features than other accounts—no debit card, no checks—but it costs nothing to maintain.

Read the fee schedule for the specific account type you choose. Bank of America publishes this on the account details page before you sign up.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is ready to use when ready. If you funded it during signup, the money will be available within one business day. You can set up bill pay, transfer money to other accounts, and receive direct deposits right away.

Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or make transfers. You can also use Bank of America's mobile app to deposit checks once your account is fully activated, which usually takes 24 hours.

If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit any Bank of America branch and withdraw money using your account number and ID.

If you need to verify your identity

Bank of America may ask you to verify your identity during signup, especially if you're opening an account for the first time with them. This usually happens automatically through a credit check or security questions. You answer questions about your financial history—previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit card accounts.

If the automated verification does not work, Bank of America will ask you to upload a photo of your ID or call their verification team. This adds a day or two to the process but does not prevent you from opening the account.

In rare cases, Bank of America may ask you to visit a branch in person to complete verification. This happens when automated checks cannot confirm your identity. The bank will tell you this during signup and provide instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you are a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but you will need to visit a branch in person to do so.

How long does it take to open the account?

The online process takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens when ready after you complete the steps. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, and some features like mobile check deposit set up within 24 hours.

What if I don't have another bank account to fund it with?

You can use a debit card instead. Bank of America will charge the card for your initial deposit. If you don't have either, you can open the account and fund it later by visiting a branch or setting up a direct deposit from your employer.

Can I open an account if I'm under 18?

No. You must be at least 18 years old to open an account on your own. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian can open a custodial account at a Bank of America branch, which gives you access to banking services under their supervision.

What if Bank of America denies my account?

Bank of America may deny an account if you have a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts at other banks, or other risk factors. If your account is denied, the bank will send you a letter explaining why. You can contact Bank of America to discuss the decision, but the outcome is usually final.