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 requires a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type). You'll need an email address and a way to verify your identity — usually a photo ID and a quick video call, though some account types use instant verification instead.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products still require a branch visit or a phone call to open. If you already have a Bank of America account, opening a second one online is faster because the bank already has your information on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Most checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes using a valid ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.
  • Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity through photo ID upload or a brief video call during the online process.
  • You need an active email address and a way to fund the account — a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
  • Some account types, including Money Market accounts, cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone call instead.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Bank of America accepts utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements dated within the last 90 days as address proof, though you may not need to upload it if your ID already shows your current address.

You'll also need an initial deposit. The amount depends on the account type — checking accounts typically require $25 to $100, while savings accounts may require $25. If you don't have another bank account to transfer from, you can use a debit card or arrange a wire transfer, though wire transfers may take a business day to process before your account is fully active.

The step-by-step online process

Start at bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Select the account type you want — Advantage Checking, Advantage Plus Checking, or Advantage Savings are the most common online options. The form will ask for your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.

Next comes identity verification. Bank of America will ask you to upload a photo of your ID — both the front and back. Some accounts use instant verification, which checks your information against databases and takes seconds. Others require a video call with a Bank of America representative, which usually happens within a few minutes. During the video call, you'll show your ID to the camera and answer a few security questions.

Once verified, you'll choose how to fund your account. If you have another bank account, you can link it and transfer money immediately. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number and the amount you want to deposit. After you submit your initial deposit, your account number and routing number appear on screen — write these down or take a screenshot, because you'll need them to set up direct deposit or link the account to other services.

When your account is ready to use

Your checking or savings account is usually active within minutes of completing the online process, though the exact timing depends on how you funded it. If you transferred money from another bank account, the funds may take one to three business days to arrive. If you used a debit card, the deposit typically posts within 24 hours.

You can start using your account as soon as it's open — you can set up bill pay, direct deposit, or mobile transfers right away. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to withdraw cash before the card arrives, you can visit any Bank of America ATM and use your account number to make a withdrawal, or go to a branch and ask a teller to help you.

Account types you cannot open online

Money Market accounts, CDs (certificates of deposit), and some specialty accounts like the Bank of America Advantage Relationship Banking account require a phone call or branch visit to open. If you want one of these accounts, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a local branch. The phone process is similar to online — you'll provide your ID and Social Security number — but a representative walks you through it instead of using a form.

If you already have a Bank of America account and want to open a Money Market account, you can sometimes do it through your online banking portal or mobile app without calling. Check your account dashboard under "Open a New Account" to see which options are available to you.

What happens if verification fails

If Bank of America cannot verify your identity instantly, you'll be asked to complete a video call. This usually happens within a few minutes of submitting your application. Have your ID ready and make sure you're in a well-lit space where the camera can see your face clearly.

If the video call doesn't work or you're not able to complete it immediately, Bank of America will send you an email with a link to schedule a callback. You can choose a time that works for you, and a representative will call you to finish the verification. If verification fails after multiple attempts, you'll need to visit a branch in person or call customer service to troubleshoot the problem.

Linking your new account to other services

Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit, automatic bill pay, and transfers to other banks. To set up direct deposit, give your employer or benefit provider your new Bank of America account number and routing number (026009593 for most Bank of America checking and savings accounts). Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to start.

To transfer money from another bank into your new Bank of America account, use the "Transfer Money" option in your online banking portal or mobile app. You'll enter the other bank's routing number and your account number there. External transfers typically take one to three business days, depending on the other bank's processing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit a branch to open an account?

No. Most checking and savings accounts open entirely online. You'll need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit, but you can complete the entire process on your computer or phone. Some account types do require a branch visit or phone call.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you don't have either, you'll need to visit a branch and speak with a representative about your options.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. If you need a video call for identity verification, add another 5 to 10 minutes. Your account is typically active within minutes, though funds you deposit may take one to three business days to arrive depending on the funding method.

Can I open an account if I'm under 18?

Bank of America does not allow minors to open accounts online. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must visit a branch with you to open a Youth Checking account or add you as an authorized user on their account.

What if I already have a Bank of America account?

Opening a second account is faster if you're already a customer. Bank of America already has your information on file, so the verification process is quicker. You can often open a new account through your online banking portal without uploading your ID again.