What you need to open a Bank of America account

You can open a Bank of America account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. Most people start online because it takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home. You will need a valid government ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or cash if you go to a branch.

Bank of America offers several account types, and the one you choose depends on how you plan to use it. A checking account is for everyday spending — you get a debit card and can write checks. A savings account is for money you want to set aside and earn a small amount of interest on. Many people open both at the same time. You do not need much money to start: some accounts have no minimum opening deposit, though others ask for $25 or more.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open an account online in about 10 minutes using a valid ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account.
  • Bank of America offers checking accounts for everyday spending and savings accounts for money you want to keep separate and earn interest on.
  • Some accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require $25 or more to start.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at a branch in person.
  • After opening your account, you can set up direct deposit, request a debit card, and link other accounts for transfers.

Opening an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." You will be asked to choose which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. The website will then ask for your personal information: your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number.

Next, you will verify your identity. Bank of America will ask you questions based on your credit history — things like "which of these addresses have you lived at" or "which of these credit cards have you had." These questions confirm you are who you say you are. After you answer them correctly, you will choose a username and password to log in later.

Finally, you will fund your account. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card to add funds, or leave it empty for now. Once you submit, your account opens right away, and you can log in to see your account number. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account at a branch

If you prefer to open your account in person, find your nearest Bank of America branch using their branch locator on their website. Bring your valid ID, your Social Security number (or ITIN if you do not have a Social Security number), and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement all work. You do not need to bring money, but you can deposit cash on the spot if you want to fund the account when ready.

A banker will walk you through the account options, help you choose which type of account fits your needs, and answer any questions. The whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will sign documents, set up your username and password, and leave with information about your new account. Your debit card will still arrive by mail a week or so later.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log in online or through the Bank of America mobile app to see your balance and transaction history. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within about a week. When it arrives, you will need to set up it — you can do this by calling the number on the back of the card, using the mobile app, or logging into your online account.

If you get a paycheck, you can set up direct deposit so your employer puts money straight into your account instead of giving you a paper check. Ask your employer's payroll department for the direct deposit form, and give them your account number and routing number — both are on the checks that come with your account, or you can find them by logging in online.

You can also link other bank accounts to transfer money between them, set up bill pay to pay your bills online, and turn on alerts so you get a text or email when your balance drops below a certain amount. All of these are optional, but they make managing your money easier.

If you do not have a Social Security number

Bank of America will open an account for you using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You cannot open this account online — you must go to a branch in person.

Bring your ITIN documentation (your IRS letter), a valid government-issued ID from your home country or a passport, and proof of your current address. The process is the same as opening an account with a Social Security number, and it takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will have full access to checking, savings, debit cards, and all other account features.

Account types and what they cost

Bank of America's most common checking account is called Advantage SafePass Checking. It has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit, use your debit card at least 10 times a month, or keep a minimum balance of $1,500. If you do not meet any of these, there is a $12 monthly fee. This account comes with a debit card, online banking, and the ability to write checks.

For savings, the Advantage Savings account earns interest on the money you keep in it. The interest rate changes based on how much money is in the account and what the Federal Reserve does with interest rates — it is not fixed. There is no monthly fee if you keep at least $500 in the account, or you can pay $4 a month if you keep less.

Bank of America also offers accounts designed for students and for people under 25, which have different fee structures. Ask a banker which account makes the most sense for your situation when you open your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account if I have bad credit?

Yes. Bank of America does not check your credit score to open a checking or savings account. They do check your banking history using ChexSystems, a system that tracks whether you have had problems with bank accounts in the past — like bouncing checks or closing accounts with a negative balance. If you have had problems, you may still be able to open an account, but ask a banker about your specific situation.

How much money do I need to open an account?

Most Bank of America accounts have no minimum opening deposit, meaning you can open an account with zero dollars. However, some accounts charge a monthly fee unless you keep a certain balance or meet other requirements — like setting up direct deposit. Check the account details before you open to understand what the fee structure is.

Can I open an account for someone else, like a child?

Bank of America offers accounts for minors, but a parent or guardian must open the account and be listed as the owner. You can open a teen checking account for someone 13 to 17 years old, which comes with parental controls so you can monitor spending. Go to a branch with the minor's ID and your ID to open this type of account.

What if I lose my debit card before it arrives?

Contact Bank of America right away by calling the number on your account statement or logging into your online account. They will cancel the card and send you a replacement. In the meantime, you can still access your money through online banking or at an ATM using your PIN.

Do I have to use Bank of America's mobile app?

No. You can manage your account entirely through their website on a computer, through the mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. The app is convenient, but it is not required. You can choose whichever way works best for you.