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 you can start using the account the same day in most cases. You will need a Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a transfer from an existing Bank of America account.

The account opens in your name when ready after you complete the online steps. You can use it to receive direct deposits, pay bills, and make transfers right away. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account number to set up payments before the card shows up.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a Social Security number, government ID, and a funding source — either a debit card, another bank account, or an existing Bank of America account.
  • The account opens the same day you complete the online process, and you can use it when ready through the Bank of America app or website.
  • Your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive, but you can make payments and set up direct deposits before it does.
  • Bank of America checks your ChexSystems history during the process, which may delay or prevent approval if you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts with other banks.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open the account. You will need your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your current address. Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity using a government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work.

You also need a way to fund the account. Bank of America accepts a debit card from any bank, a checking or savings account number from another institution, or a transfer from an existing Bank of America account. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type — some checking accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more. Check the specific account details on the Bank of America website before you start, since requirements change.

The steps to open your account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and click the link to open a new checking account. Bank of America will ask you to choose which type of checking account you want — options typically include a basic checking account, a student account if you are under 24, or an account with higher benefits that requires a minimum balance. Read the features and fees for each one, since they differ.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Bank of America verifies this information against public records. Next, you will upload or photograph your government ID. The system reads the ID automatically, so make sure the photo is clear and all four corners are visible.

Choose your funding method and enter those details. If you are using a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. If you are using another bank account, enter the routing number and account number. Bank of America will make two small test deposits to that account within one to two business days, and you will need to confirm the amounts to verify you own the account.

Review the account agreement and disclosures, then sign electronically. Your account opens when ready. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can log into the Bank of America app or website right away to see your account and set up bill pay or direct deposit.

When Bank of America might deny or delay your process

Bank of America uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check your record. If you have unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts with negative balances, or multiple accounts closed for cause at other banks, your process may be denied or delayed. Bank of America will send you a letter explaining the reason if this happens.

You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com before you explore. If there are errors on your report, you can dispute them directly with ChexSystems, which may take 30 days to resolve. If the information is accurate, you may want to pay off any outstanding balances before explore to Bank of America.

Occasionally, the identity verification step fails if your ID photo is unclear, if your name does not match public records exactly, or if there is a mismatch between your address and what Bank of America finds. If this happens, you will be prompted to try again or to visit a branch in person with your ID.

Using your account before your debit card arrives

Your account is ready to use the moment it opens, even though your physical debit card is still in the mail. You can receive direct deposits using your account number and routing number. You can also set up bill pay through the Bank of America website or app to send money to creditors, utilities, or other payees.

If you need to make a purchase before your card arrives, you can request a temporary digital card through the Bank of America app. This creates a virtual card number that works with online retailers and mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You can also visit a branch and ask for a temporary card to use at merchants in person.

Fees and account maintenance

Bank of America checking accounts have different fee structures depending on which account type you chose. Some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee of $12 or more, while others waive the fee if you meet certain conditions — such as maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account open.

Overdraft fees explore if you spend more than your balance. Bank of America charges $35 per overdraft transaction in most cases, though you can opt out of overdraft protection if you prefer transactions to be declined instead. Read your account agreement to understand which fees explore to your specific account type.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for my debit card to arrive?

Bank of America typically mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card sooner, you can request a temporary digital card through the app or visit a branch to pick up a temporary card in person. Some branches can issue a card on the spot.

Can I open an account if I have been denied by another bank?

A denial from another bank does not automatically disqualify you from Bank of America. However, if the denial was due to ChexSystems issues — such as unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts — Bank of America may see the same information and deny you too. Check your ChexSystems report first to know what Bank of America will see.

What if the identity verification fails?

If the online ID verification does not work, Bank of America will tell you during the process. You can try again with a clearer photo, or you can visit a branch in person with your ID and complete the account opening there. Bring your ID and a second form of identification if possible.

Can I open a joint account online?

Bank of America does not allow you to open a joint checking account entirely online. One account holder can open the account online, and the second person can be added later by visiting a branch together or by the first account holder adding them through the app or website.

Do I need to make a minimum deposit?

Minimum deposit requirements depend on which checking account you choose. Some Bank of America checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require $25 or more. The account details page shows the minimum for each account type before you start the process.