Yes, you can open a Bank of America checking account entirely online

You can start and complete a Bank of America checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The whole process takes about 10 minutes. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address Bank of America can reach you at.

Bank of America offers this online option through their website and mobile app. Once you finish the online steps, your account opens when ready, though you may not be able to use all features until the bank confirms your identity, which usually happens within one business day.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking account on Bank of America's website or mobile app without going to a branch, and the account opens the same day.
  • You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a phone number or email for identity verification.
  • Bank of America offers several checking account types online, each with different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements.
  • You can fund your new account by transferring money from another bank account or depositing a check through the mobile app once your account is active.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you may still open an account in person at a branch with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Bank of America will ask for your address and phone number as well.

You will also need access to a phone or email address where Bank of America can reach you during the verification process. The bank uses this to confirm you are who you say you are. If you are opening the account on your phone, have a computer nearby or be ready to switch devices, because some steps may be easier on a larger screen.

The steps to open an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com or open the Bank of America mobile app. Look for the button that says "Open an Account" — it is usually on the homepage. Select "Checking" when asked what type of account you want.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Bank of America will ask for your Social Security number next. Then you will choose which checking account type you want — the bank offers several, with different fees and features.

After you choose your account type, Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity. This usually means answering security questions based on your credit history, or the bank may send a code to your phone or email that you enter to confirm it is really you. Once you pass this step, your account opens right away.

You will then set up online banking access by creating a username and password. Bank of America will show you your new account number and routing number on the screen. Write these down or take a screenshot — you will need them if you want to transfer money from another bank.

Choosing the right checking account type

Bank of America offers several checking accounts online. The most common are the Advantage SafePass Checking account, which has a monthly fee but waives it if you meet certain requirements like setting up direct deposit, and the Advantage Plus Checking account, which also has a monthly fee with similar waiver options.

The bank also offers Student Checking if you are a full-time student under 25, which has no monthly fee. Each account type comes with a debit card, online banking, and the ability to use Bank of America ATMs for free.

The main difference between accounts is the monthly maintenance fee and what you need to do to avoid paying it — usually direct deposit, a minimum balance, or a certain number of debit card transactions per month. Read the fee schedule for each type before you choose, because the requirements vary.

Adding money to your new account

You cannot deposit cash online, but you have other options. The fastest way is to transfer money from another bank account you already have. During the account opening process, Bank of America will ask if you want to link another account for transfers. If you do, you will enter that account's routing number and account number.

Bank of America will send two small deposits to that account (usually within one to two business days) to verify you own it. You then enter the amounts of those deposits back into Bank of America's website to confirm the link. Once confirmed, you can transfer money between the accounts.

If you do not have another bank account to transfer from, you can deposit a check using the Bank of America mobile app once your account is active. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, and the bank will deposit it electronically. You can also visit a branch in person to deposit cash or a check.

When your account is fully ready to use

Your checking account is open and usable the same day you finish the online steps. However, Bank of America may place a hold on transfers or deposits while they finish verifying your identity, which usually takes one business day.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money. You can also request a temporary digital card through the mobile app that you can use right away for online purchases.

What to do if you do not have a Social Security number

If you do not have a Social Security number but have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) — a number the IRS issues to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number — you cannot complete the online process. You will need to visit a Bank of America branch in person with your ITIN, a valid government ID, and proof of your address.

Bring a document that shows your name and address, such as a utility bill, lease, or government letter. A branch employee will help you open the account and verify your identity in person. The account will work the same way as one opened online, but the in-person step is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Bank of America checking account online?

The entire process takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens when ready after you finish the steps, though Bank of America may take up to one business day to fully verify your identity and remove any holds on transfers.

Can I use my new account right away, or do I have to wait?

Your account is usable the same day you open it. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or pay bills online right away. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can request a temporary digital card through the app for when ready use.

What if Bank of America cannot verify my identity online?

If the online verification fails, Bank of America will tell you to visit a branch in person. Bring your government ID and Social Security number. A branch employee can verify your identity and complete the account opening for you.

Do I have to keep a minimum balance in my checking account?

It depends on which account type you choose. Some Bank of America checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 or $1,500), set up direct deposit, or make a certain number of debit card transactions. Check the fee schedule for your account type to see what applies to you.

Can I open a Bank of America checking account if I have had banking problems before?

Bank of America uses ChexSystems, a system that tracks banking history. If you have unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, or other serious issues, the bank may deny your process. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what is on file, or ask Bank of America directly why your process was denied.