The basic steps to open an account

You can open a Bank of America account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online is fastest — it usually takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day. You will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type, but some accounts have no minimum).

If you open online, Bank of America will verify your identity using information from your credit report and may ask you security questions. If you open in a branch, a banker will walk you through the process and can answer questions about which account fits your situation. Phone opening is also available but less common — most people choose online or in-branch.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open most Bank of America accounts online in 10 to 15 minutes with just an ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit.
  • In-branch opening takes longer but lets you ask questions and sometimes may have access to for promotions that online customers do not.
  • Bank of America offers different account types — checking, savings, and money market — each with different fees and minimum balance requirements.
  • Once your account is open, you can use the mobile app or website to check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills when ready.

What documents and information you need

Bring or have ready a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will not accept a student ID or work badge alone. You will also need your Social Security number, which the bank uses to check your identity and pull your credit history.

Have your current address ready. If you moved recently, bring a utility bill, lease, or other document showing your name and address — the bank may ask for this if your ID shows an old address. If you are opening with someone else (a joint account), that person needs to bring their ID and Social Security number too.

Decide how much money you want to deposit to open the account. Some Bank of America accounts require a minimum opening deposit — often $25 to $100 — while others have no minimum. You can deposit by debit card, transfer from another bank account, or cash if you are opening in a branch.

Opening online versus opening in a branch

Online opening is the fastest route. Go to bankofamerica.com, click "Open an Account," and choose the account type you want. Answer questions about your personal information, verify your identity (usually by answering security questions based on your credit history), and choose a username and password. You can fund the account with a debit card or by transferring money from another bank. Your account number appears on screen when ready, and you can use the mobile app or website right away.

In-branch opening takes 20 to 30 minutes but has advantages. A banker can explain the difference between account types, show you how to use online banking, and sometimes offer promotions — like a cash bonus or waived fees for the first few months — that are not available online. You can also ask questions about overdraft protection, savings goals, or other services. To find your nearest branch, use the Bank of America branch locator on their website.

If you do not have a strong credit history or your identity does not verify online, the bank may ask you to open in a branch instead. This is not a rejection — it just means a banker needs to verify your information in person.

Account types and what each one costs

Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts. The most common checking account is the Checking Account, which has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500) or set up direct deposit. Without these, there is a monthly maintenance fee. The account comes with a debit card, online banking, and the ability to write checks.

The Savings Account earns interest on the money you keep in it, though the rate is usually low. It also has a monthly fee unless you maintain a minimum balance. You can make a limited number of transfers or withdrawals per month before extra fees explore.

Bank of America also offers Money Market Accounts, which combine features of checking and savings and typically require a higher minimum balance. Ask a banker which account makes sense for your situation — if you are new to banking, a basic checking account is usually the right starting point.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active when ready, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your temporary card number from the app, or you can visit a branch and ask a banker to help you withdraw. You can also transfer money to other accounts, pay bills online, or set up direct deposit right away.

Direct deposit is worth setting up early — if your employer or a government benefit sends money to your account, direct deposit is free and faster than waiting for a check. You can give your employer or benefit program your account number and routing number (both visible in the app or online banking) to set this up.

Bank of America sends statements monthly by email or mail, depending on what you choose. Review your first statement to make sure all transactions are correct and to understand any fees you were charged.

If you have had banking problems before

Bank of America uses ChexSystems, a system that tracks banking history. If you closed an account with overdrafts you did not pay back, or if you had repeated overdrafts at another bank, ChexSystems may flag you. This does not automatically disqualify you, but the bank may ask more questions or ask you to open in a branch.

If you were denied an account, ask why — the bank must tell you. Some people in this situation open a second-chance checking account at a smaller bank or credit union first, use it responsibly for several months, and then return to Bank of America. Others work with a banker in-branch to explain their situation and see if an exception can be made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum balance to open an account?

Some Bank of America accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100, but you do not need to keep that balance after opening. However, many accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below a certain amount — usually $500 for checking. Ask which account has no monthly fee or lowest fee for your situation.

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

Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you do not have either, you may need to contact a branch directly to discuss other options, though this is uncommon.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your temporary card number in the app to withdraw cash at ATMs or make online purchases before the physical card arrives. If you need cash when ready, visit a branch and ask a banker to help you.

What if I want to add someone else to my account?

You can open a joint account with another person if you both have ID and Social Security numbers. Both people are responsible for the account and can access all the money. You can also add an authorized user to an existing account later — ask a banker about the difference and which option fits your needs.

Can I open an account on my phone?

Yes, you can open an account using the Bank of America mobile app or website on your phone. The process is the same as opening on a computer — you will need your ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit amount ready.