What you need to bring and the steps to open an account
Bank of America lets you open a checking account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The fastest route is usually online — you can complete it in about 10 minutes if you have the right documents ready. In-branch takes longer because of wait times, but a banker can answer questions as you go. Phone opening is slowest and requires you to verify information verbally.
You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card from another bank, a bank transfer, or cash if you open in person. Bank of America requires a minimum opening deposit, though the amount varies by account type and changes periodically. You should check their current requirements on their website or call 1-800-432-1000 before you start.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), but you will need to do it in person at a branch with additional documents like a passport and proof of address.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and requires a government ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund the account.
- Bank of America requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — check their website for the current amount before you start.
- You can open in person at a branch, online, or by phone, but online is fastest and in-person is best if you have questions.
- If you do not have a Social Security number, you must open in person with an ITIN and additional identity documents.
Opening online through Bank of America's website
Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select the checking account type you want — Bank of America offers several versions with different fees and features. Read the details of each one, because some have monthly fees and some waive fees if you meet certain conditions like direct deposit or a minimum balance.
The form will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information. You will upload a photo of your ID — take the photo in good light so all text is readable. Bank of America will verify your identity using information from credit bureaus and other sources, which usually takes a few minutes but can take up to a day.
Once your identity is verified, you will link a bank account or debit card to fund your new checking account. Bank of America will make two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to that account, and you will need to confirm the amounts to prove you control the account. After that, your account is open and you can set up online banking, request a debit card, and start using the account.
Opening in person at a Bank of America branch
Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the minimum opening deposit in cash or on a debit card. Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours and tell the person at the desk you want to open a checking account. They will take you to a banker or direct you to a waiting area.
The banker will ask the same questions as the online form — name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, employment. They will verify your ID by looking at it in person, which is faster than the online photo verification. You will choose your account type and make your opening deposit right there. The banker can also order a debit card, set up online banking, and answer questions about fees and features.
Your account is usually open the same day, and you can use it when ready. The debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card faster, some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot, but this varies by location.
Opening by phone with Bank of America
Call 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to open a checking account. They will walk you through the same questions and verify your identity by asking for information that matches your credit file. This process takes longer than online or in-person because everything is verbal and the representative must confirm each piece of information.
You will need to provide your opening deposit information — either a debit card number from another bank or bank account details for a transfer. The representative will set up the account and arrange for your debit card to be mailed to you. You cannot make a cash deposit by phone, so this route only works if you have another bank account or debit card to fund with.
What happens after you open the account
Your new checking account number will be provided when ready if you opened online or by phone, or on a receipt if you opened in person. You can start using the account right away for transfers and bill pay, even before your debit card arrives. Set up online banking on bankofamerica.com so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills.
Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will need to set up it — Bank of America sends instructions with the card, or you can set up it through their app or website. Until you set up it, you cannot use it at ATMs or stores, but your account itself is fully functional.
If you set up direct deposit with your employer, Bank of America will waive monthly fees on many account types. Ask about this when you open the account, because it can save you money each month.
Account types and monthly fees
Bank of America offers several checking account versions. The most common are the Advantage Checking account (which has a monthly fee unless you meet certain conditions) and the Advantage Plus Checking account (which has a higher monthly fee but different benefits). The specific fees and conditions change, so check bankofamerica.com for current details.
Most accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep a certain amount in linked savings or investment accounts. Some accounts have no monthly fee at all. Read the fee schedule before you choose, because the wrong choice can cost you $10 to $15 per month.
If you do not have a Social Security number
You can open a Bank of America checking account with an ITIN instead, but only in person at a branch. Bring your ITIN documentation, a government-issued passport, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). The banker will verify your identity using these documents instead of a Social Security number.
The rest of the process is the same — you will choose an account type, make your opening deposit, and receive your account number on the spot. Your debit card will arrive by mail in the same timeframe as other accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to deposit to open the account?
Bank of America requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type and changes periodically. Check their website or call 1-800-432-1000 to find the current minimum. Most accounts require between $100 and $500, but this can change.
Can I open an account if I have been denied before?
Bank of America checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks closed accounts and fraud. If you were denied in the past, call 1-800-432-1000 and ask whether your situation has changed or whether you can open a different account type. Some people who were denied years ago can open accounts now.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Standard debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days by mail. Some branches can issue a temporary card in person, but this is not available everywhere. If you need to use a card when ready, ask the banker or representative whether a temporary card is an option.
Do I have to go to a branch, or can I do everything online?
You can open online without visiting a branch. However, if you do not have a Social Security number or if you want to deposit cash, you must go in person. Online opening is fastest for most people.
What if I want to close the account later?
You can close your Bank of America checking account anytime by calling 1-800-432-1000, visiting a branch, or using their app. Make sure you have withdrawn all your money and paid any outstanding checks or transfers before you close it.