Documents and information you'll bring

Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. If you don't have one of these, you can use a combination of other documents — ask the branch what they accept, since rules vary slightly by location.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement typically won't work on its own, but the branch staff can tell you what they'll accept when you call ahead.

You'll also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bank of America uses this to verify your identity and report interest earned on your account to the IRS. If you don't have either, the branch can discuss other options with you.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or tribal ID) and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.
  • You'll need your Social Security number or ITIN, which the bank uses to verify your identity and report account activity to the IRS.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online, depending on which account type you choose.
  • Some account types require a minimum opening deposit, while others do not — the branch can explain what's required for each option.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and provide their own ID and proof of address.

Opening in person at a branch

Walking into a Bank of America branch with your documents is the most straightforward route. Bring your photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. A banker will ask you questions about how you plan to use the account — whether you need to deposit checks, withdraw cash, pay bills, or send money — so they can recommend an account type that fits your situation.

The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes. You'll sign paperwork, choose a PIN for your debit card, and decide whether you want online banking set up that same day. Some branches can issue a debit card when ready; others mail it to your address. Ask when you arrive.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian. They'll need to provide their own photo ID and proof of address, and they'll be listed as the account owner or co-owner depending on the account type.

Opening by phone or online

Bank of America allows you to start an account over the phone by calling 1-800-432-1000. You'll provide your personal information, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of address details. The bank will verify your identity and mail you a debit card and welcome materials. This route works if you can't visit a branch, but it takes longer — typically 7 to 10 business days before your card arrives and you can use the account fully.

Online account opening is available on the Bank of America website, though not all account types can be opened this way. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your information, and choose your account settings. The same timeline applies: your debit card arrives by mail within a week or two.

If you open remotely and later need to deposit cash or checks, you can visit any Bank of America branch with your ID and new debit card.

Minimum deposits and account fees

Bank of America's basic checking account (called Advantage SafePass) has no minimum opening deposit. Other checking accounts, like Advantage Plus, may require $500 or more to open, though this varies. Savings accounts also have different minimums depending on the type.

Most accounts have monthly maintenance fees, but Bank of America waives them if you meet certain conditions — for example, keeping a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a linked savings account. Ask the banker which account types have fee waivers and what you'd need to do to may have access to. Some accounts are designed for people new to banking and have lower fees or no fees at all.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, you can use online banking to check your balance, transfer money between accounts, and set up bill pay. Your debit card arrives by mail and can be used at ATMs and stores. If you opened in person, you may be able to use your card the same day; if you opened remotely, wait until it arrives before trying to use it.

Bank of America offers a mobile app where you can deposit checks by taking a photo, send money to other people, and manage your account from your phone. You can set this up as soon as your account is active.

If you have questions after opening, you can visit a branch, call customer service, or use the mobile app's chat feature. Bank of America also offers financial education resources on their website if you're new to banking.

If you don't have all the documents

If you don't have a government photo ID, call your local Bank of America branch and ask what alternatives they accept. Some branches will work with a combination of documents — for example, a state-issued ID without a photo, plus a utility bill and a Social Security card. Rules vary by location, so the branch staff can tell you what's possible in your area.

If you don't have a Social Security number or ITIN, you can still open an account, but the process is different. Ask the branch about their options for people without a Social Security number. You may be able to use a passport number or other identifier, though this depends on the branch's policies.

If you're under 18 and your parent or guardian can't come to the branch with you, some locations allow you to open a teen account online or by phone with parental consent. Call ahead to ask whether this is an option near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You'll need a valid passport or other government-issued ID from your country, proof of your current U.S. address, and an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or Social Security number. If you don't have an ITIN, you can request one from the IRS before opening the account, or ask the branch whether they can help you with the process.

What if I have a bad banking history or was denied before?

Bank of America checks ChexSystems, a banking history report, when you open an account. If you were denied in the past, ask the branch why. Sometimes the issue can be resolved, or the branch can explain what you need to do before trying again. You have the right to see your ChexSystems report and dispute errors on it.

Do I have to open a checking account, or can I just open savings?

You can open a savings account alone, though most people open both. A checking account is for money you use regularly, while a savings account is for money you want to set aside. Ask the banker which combination makes sense for how you plan to use the account.

How long does it take to use my account after I open it?

If you open in person at a branch, you can use online banking and your debit card the same day or within a few hours. If you open by phone or online, your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can still use online banking and transfers before the card arrives.

What if I lose my debit card or forget my PIN?

Call Bank of America customer service or visit a branch to report a lost card or reset your PIN. They can issue a replacement card or send you a new PIN by mail. In the meantime, you can still access your money through online banking or by visiting a branch with your ID.