What you need to open an account

Bank of America requires two pieces of identification and proof of your current address before you can open an account. You will also need to bring a small amount of money — usually at least $25 — to fund the account when you open it.

The two forms of ID should include at least one government-issued document with your photo, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be another photo ID or a document like a Social Security card or birth certificate. If you do not have a government ID yet, you can bring two non-photo documents instead, though the process takes longer and the branch may ask you to return with a photo ID later.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name and current address. The document should be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have one, a letter from a government agency or your employer with your address will work.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open an account in person at any Bank of America branch, online through their website, or by phone at 1-800-432-1000.
  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, a second form of ID, and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.
  • You will need at least $25 to deposit when you open the account, though some account types require more.
  • If you are opening an account for the first time or have had banking problems in the past, ask the branch about accounts designed for your situation.
  • The account opens when ready in most cases, and you can use your debit card within one to two business days.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walking into a Bank of America branch with your documents is the fastest way to open an account. Bring your ID, proof of address, and your initial deposit. Tell the person at the desk you want to open a new account, and they will take you to an available banker or direct you to a waiting area.

The banker will ask you questions about how you plan to use the account — whether you need to deposit checks, withdraw cash frequently, or transfer money online. They will also ask about your employment and income, which helps them understand your banking needs and recommend the right account type. Answer honestly; this information is not used to deny you an account, but to match you with one that fits how you actually bank.

Once you choose an account type, the banker will walk you through the paperwork. You will sign documents that explain the account rules, fees, and how Bank of America handles your information. The banker will also set up online banking access so you can check your balance and move money from home. The account opens the same day, and your debit card arrives by mail within one to two business days.

Opening an account online

Bank of America allows you to start the account opening process on their website without visiting a branch. Go to bankofamerica.com, find the "Open an Account" section, and choose the account type you want. The online form will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information.

You will need to verify your identity during the online process. Bank of America will ask you questions based on your credit history — questions only you should know the answers to, like details of past loans or accounts. If you do not have a credit history yet, the process may ask you to visit a branch in person to complete verification, or you may be asked to provide additional documents by mail.

Once your identity is verified online, your account opens when ready and you can set up online banking. However, you will still need to deposit money to fund the account. You can do this by transferring money from another bank account, visiting a branch to deposit cash or a check, or having your employer deposit your paycheck directly. Your debit card will arrive within one to two business days.

Opening an account by phone

You can also open a Bank of America account by calling 1-800-432-1000. A representative will walk you through the same questions you would answer in person or online — your name, address, Social Security number, and how you plan to use the account. They will explain the account options and help you choose one.

Over the phone, you will need to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history, similar to the online process. If you do not have a credit history, the representative may ask you to visit a branch or mail in documents to complete the opening.

After your account opens, you will need to fund it. The representative can explain your options: transferring money from another bank, visiting a branch to deposit cash, or setting up direct deposit from your employer. Your debit card will arrive by mail within one to two business days.

Account types and which one to choose

Bank of America offers several account types, and the right one depends on how you plan to use it. The Advantage SafePass Checking account is designed for people new to banking or returning after a gap. It has no monthly fee if you keep a small balance or set up direct deposit, and it does not require a minimum opening deposit.

The Advantage Plus Checking account is for people who use online banking and mobile apps regularly. It has a monthly fee unless you meet certain conditions, such as setting up direct deposit or keeping a minimum balance. The Premium Rewards Checking account offers cash back on debit card purchases but has a higher monthly fee and requires a larger minimum balance.

If you are not sure which account fits your situation, tell the banker or phone representative how you plan to bank — whether you will use the ATM often, deposit checks by phone or app, or mostly use online transfers. They can recommend the account that will cost you the least and work best for how you actually bank.

What happens if you have had banking problems before

If you have closed accounts with Bank of America in the past, had overdrafts you did not pay back, or appear on ChexSystems (a banking history report), Bank of America may still open an account for you, but they may require a larger deposit or offer you a limited account type first.

The Advantage SafePass Checking account is often available even if you have banking history issues, because it is designed for people in this situation. When you go to open the account, be honest about your past banking. The banker can tell you upfront whether you can open a full account or whether you will need to start with a limited one and move to a full account later.

If Bank of America declines to open an account for you, ask them to explain why. You can also request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what information they are seeing. If there is an error on the report, you can dispute it with ChexSystems directly.

Setting up online banking and your debit card

Once your account opens, you will receive login information for online banking. You can use this to check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks using your phone's camera. Set up a strong password — one that uses uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — and do not share it with anyone.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within one to two business days. When it arrives, call the number on the back to set up it before you use it. You can then use it to withdraw cash from any ATM, make purchases at stores, or pay bills online. Keep track of what you spend so you do not overdraw your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account without 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 one, you will need to obtain one before opening an account. You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS if you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number.

What if I do not have a government-issued photo ID?

You can bring two non-photo forms of ID instead, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card. However, Bank of America may ask you to return with a photo ID within a certain time frame. You can obtain a state ID card through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles even if you do not drive.

How much money do I need to open an account?

Most Bank of America accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25. Some account types, like the Advantage SafePass Checking, have no minimum opening deposit requirement. Ask the banker or representative which account type has the lowest opening deposit.

Can I open an account if I am under 18?

Bank of America allows minors to open accounts, but a parent or guardian must be present and sign the paperwork. The adult becomes a joint owner of the account and can see all transactions. Some branches offer teen checking accounts with limited features.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person at a branch, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it can take 5 to 10 minutes if your identity verifies automatically, or longer if you need to answer security questions. By phone, the process typically takes 20 to 40 minutes.