Yes, you can open most Bank of America accounts entirely online

Bank of America lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a Social Security number, a valid ID, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, another bank account, or a transfer from an existing Bank of America account.

Not every account type is available online. If you want a specific product like a student checking account, a money market account, or a business account, you may need to call or visit a branch. The online option works for standard personal checking and savings accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking or savings account online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Bank of America mobile app.
  • You will need a Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and proof of identity verification through a video call or by uploading documents.
  • Your account becomes active immediately, but you cannot withdraw funds until Bank of America verifies your identity, which usually takes one business day.
  • Some account types—student accounts, business accounts, and money market accounts—are not available online and require a phone call or branch visit.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity during signup, either through a video call with a representative or by uploading photos of your ID.

You will also need a way to fund your new account. You can link a debit card from another bank, provide routing and account numbers from an existing checking account, or transfer money from another Bank of America account if you already have one. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type—some accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more.

The online signup process, step by step

Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America app and select "Open an account." Choose whether you want checking, savings, or both. The system will ask for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.

Next, you will verify your identity. Bank of America offers two paths: a video call with a representative (usually faster, takes 5 to 10 minutes) or uploading photos of your ID and a recent utility bill or other proof of address. If you choose the video route, have your ID ready and make sure you are in a quiet space with good lighting.

After identity verification, you will choose your account features: overdraft protection, debit card design, and whether you want paperless statements. Then you will fund the account by entering a debit card number, another bank's routing and account numbers, or selecting an existing Bank of America account to transfer from. Review the account terms and sign the agreement electronically.

When your account is actually ready to use

Your account number and routing number appear on screen immediately after you finish signup, and you can set up direct deposit or bill pay right away. However, Bank of America places a hold on withdrawals until they finish verifying your identity, which usually takes one business day but can take up to five business days in some cases.

This means you can receive deposits and see your balance, but you cannot withdraw cash or make purchases with a debit card until the hold lifts. If you need money urgently, visit a branch with your ID and the account number—a teller can sometimes release the hold in person.

Account types you cannot open online

Student checking accounts, business accounts, and money market accounts must be opened by phone or in a branch. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to co-sign, which also requires a branch visit or phone call. Specialty accounts like CDs (certificates of deposit) with specific terms can sometimes be opened online, but not always—check the product page first.

If you need one of these account types, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit your nearest branch. A representative can walk you through the requirements and complete the process over the phone or in person.

What happens if verification fails or gets stuck

If the video call or document upload does not work, Bank of America will send you an email with next steps. Sometimes the system cannot read your ID clearly, or the address on your ID does not match what you entered. If this happens, you can try uploading documents again, request a video call instead, or visit a branch with your ID.

If your account is stuck in a pending state for more than a few days, call customer service at 1-800-432-1000. They can see where the verification stopped and either complete it over the phone or schedule a branch appointment. Do not open a second account while the first one is pending—this can delay both.

Fees and account minimums

Bank of America's checking accounts have no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500 depending on the account type) or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts typically require a $25 minimum opening deposit and have no monthly fee. If you do not meet the balance requirement and do not have direct deposit, you will pay a monthly fee ranging from $12 to $15.

Overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the Bank of America network, and wire transfer fees apply separately. Review the fee schedule for the specific account you are opening—it appears before you sign the agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number for all personal accounts. If you are a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), but you will need to call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch to explore this option.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Bank of America mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days after your account opens. You can request expedited shipping for a fee, or you can visit a branch to pick up a temporary card immediately. You can also add your account to digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay before the physical card arrives.

What if I already have a Bank of America account?

You can open a second account online using the same process. If you are logged into your existing account, the system may pre-fill some information and let you fund the new account by transferring from your current account.

Can I close my account if I change my mind?

Yes. You can close an account online through your Bank of America dashboard, by phone at 1-800-432-1000, or in person at a branch. Make sure your balance is zero and you have no pending transactions before you close it.

What if I cannot verify my identity online?

Visit a Bank of America branch with your ID and ask to open an account in person. A representative can complete the process immediately and you will have full access to your account right away, with no verification hold.