What you need to bring and know before you start
Bank of America lets you open a checking account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — usually at least $25, though some account types ask for more. If you are opening an account online or by phone, you will also need a debit card from another bank or a routing number so Bank of America can move money into your new account to meet the deposit requirement.
Before you choose which account to open, understand that Bank of America offers several checking account types, each with different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and perks. The most common option for someone new to banking is the Core Checking account, which has no monthly maintenance fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance of $500. If you do not meet either of those conditions, the fee is $12 per month. Knowing this upfront helps you pick the account that fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit of at least $25 to open any Bank of America checking account.
- Core Checking has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep $500 in the account; otherwise it costs $12 per month.
- You can open an account in person at a branch, online at bankofamerica.com, or by calling 1-800-432-1000.
- If you open online, the account is usually ready to use within one business day, though you may need to visit a branch to deposit cash or get a debit card sooner.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walking into a Bank of America branch and opening an account in person takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Bring your photo ID, your Social Security number written down, and the money for your initial deposit — you can bring cash, a check, or use a debit card from another bank. A banker will ask you questions about your employment, income, and how you plan to use the account. These questions are routine and required by federal law; they help the bank prevent fraud and money laundering.
The banker will show you the different checking account options, explain the fees and features of each, and help you choose. Once you decide, you will sign paperwork (either on paper or on a tablet), and the account opens when ready. You will receive a temporary debit card on the spot or within a few business days, depending on the branch. If you need to withdraw cash or deposit a check right away, you can do that at the branch before you leave.
Opening an account online
Opening a Bank of America checking account online at bankofamerica.com takes about 10 to 15 minutes and can be done any time of day. You will enter your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information into the form. You will choose which checking account type you want, review the terms, and agree to them electronically. Then you will set up your initial deposit by linking a debit card from another bank or providing your employer's routing number so Bank of America can pull money from your paycheck.
Once you submit the form, Bank of America reviews your information — this usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. You will receive an email confirming that your account is open and providing your account number. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still use your account to receive direct deposits or transfers from other banks, but you cannot withdraw cash or make purchases in stores. If you need cash or a debit card sooner, visit a branch in person with your ID and the banker can issue a temporary card.
Opening an account by phone
You can open a Bank of America checking account by calling 1-800-432-1000 and speaking to a representative. Have your photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit information ready before you call. The representative will walk you through the same questions and account choices as a branch banker would. The call typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.
After you hang up, Bank of America will mail you a welcome packet with your account details and a temporary debit card. Your permanent debit card arrives separately within 7 to 10 business days. Like opening online, you can use your account for direct deposits and transfers right away, but you may not be able to withdraw cash until your card arrives or you visit a branch.
What happens after your account opens
Once your checking account is open, you can start receiving deposits when ready — your employer can set up direct deposit using your account number and Bank of America's routing number (1121000248 for most accounts). You can also transfer money in from another bank using an external transfer, which usually takes one to three business days. Your debit card, once it arrives, lets you withdraw cash from any Bank of America ATM for free, or from other banks' ATMs for a fee (usually $2 to $3 per withdrawal).
Bank of America sends your monthly statement by email or mail, depending on what you choose during setup. The statement shows every deposit, withdrawal, and fee. If you notice something wrong — a charge you did not make, a deposit that did not show up, or a fee you think was incorrect — contact Bank of America within 60 days and they will investigate. Waiting longer than 60 days can limit your options for getting the money back.
Fees and charges to understand
Bank of America's Core Checking account has a $12 monthly maintenance fee unless you meet one of two conditions: you set up direct deposit (your paycheck or benefits payment goes straight into the account), or you keep a minimum balance of $500. Many people new to banking do not realize that the fee applies every month if neither condition is met, so plan ahead. If you think you will struggle to keep $500 in the account, direct deposit is the easier path to avoiding the fee.
Beyond the monthly fee, Bank of America charges for certain actions: withdrawing cash from a non-Bank of America ATM costs $2.50 per transaction, overdrawing your account (spending more than you have) costs $35 per overdraft, and some services like wire transfers or cashier's checks have separate fees. None of these are unusual — most banks charge similar amounts — but knowing them helps you avoid surprises. You can see the full fee schedule on Bank of America's website or ask a banker to walk you through it.
If you have questions before opening
Bank of America has several ways to answer questions before you open an account. You can visit bankofamerica.com and use their live chat feature during business hours, call 1-800-432-1000, or walk into any branch and ask to speak with a banker. If you are not sure which account type fits your situation, a banker can help you compare. If you have concerns about fees or want to know whether direct deposit is available from your employer, ask before you open — it is easier to choose the right account the first time than to switch later.
You can also find information about Bank of America's checking accounts on their website, where they list all account types, current fees, and minimum balance requirements. Taking time to understand your options before you walk in or call means you will feel more confident about the choice you make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security number to open a Bank of America checking account?
Yes. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all checking accounts. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open an account. Some immigrants and visa holders may have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead; call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether an ITIN works for your situation.
Can I open a checking account if I have been denied before or have a bad banking history?
Bank of America checks your banking history through a system called ChexSystems. If you have unpaid overdrafts, bounced checks, or fraud on your record, Bank of America may deny your account. If this happens, ask the banker why you were denied — they can tell you whether it is temporary or permanent. Some credit unions and smaller banks have more lenient policies if you need an alternative.
How long does it take to use my account after I open it?
If you open in person at a branch, your account is ready to use when ready. If you open online or by phone, your account is usually ready for direct deposits and transfers within a few hours, but your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. You can visit a branch to withdraw cash or get a temporary card sooner if you need it.
What if I do not have an initial deposit right now?
Bank of America requires at least $25 to open a checking account. If you do not have $25 available, you will need to wait until you do. Some banks and credit unions have accounts with no minimum deposit; if you need an account sooner, ask whether a local credit union or community bank near you has that option.
Can I open a joint account with someone else?
Yes. Both people will need to provide a photo ID and Social Security number. If you open in person, both of you should go to the branch together. If you open online or by phone, one person opens the account and the other can be added afterward, though Bank of America may ask both of you to verify your identities before the account is fully set up.