What you need to open an account

Bank of America requires two pieces of identification and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) before you can open an account. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many checking accounts have no minimum. If you're opening online, you can do this from home in about 10 minutes. If you go to a branch, bring your documents with you and plan for 15 to 30 minutes.

The identification Bank of America accepts includes a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. If you don't have two forms of ID, a branch employee can sometimes work with you using one ID plus other documents like a utility bill or lease. Call your local branch first to ask what they'll accept — policies can vary slightly by location.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit to open a Bank of America account.
  • Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account when ready with a debit card or bank transfer.
  • Opening in person at a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and handle any ID issues on the spot.
  • Bank of America offers different account types with different features and fees, so choose based on how you plan to use the account.

Opening an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. You'll choose which type of account you want — most people start with a checking account. Bank of America will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, and phone number.

Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your driver's license or passport. Bank of America's system will read it automatically, but if the photo is blurry or cut off, you may need to try again. After that, you'll set up your username and password, and choose how much to deposit initially. You can fund the account with a debit card, a credit card, or by linking another bank account and transferring money.

Once you finish, Bank of America will tell you when ready whether your account is open. You can use your debit card right away if you funded it with a card, though it may take a day or two for the card itself to arrive in the mail. If you transferred money from another bank account, that transfer usually takes one to three business days.

Opening an account at a branch

Find your nearest Bank of America branch using the branch locator on their website. Walk in during business hours with your ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and the amount you want to deposit. A banker will sit with you, ask the same questions as the online form, and help you choose an account type.

The advantage of opening in person is that a banker can answer questions about fees, features, and which account fits your needs. If you're new to banking or unsure about anything, this is often less stressful than doing it online. You'll leave with a temporary debit card that works when ready, and your permanent card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Understanding Bank of America account types

Bank of America offers several checking and savings account options. The most common checking account is Advantage SafePass Checking, which has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance. Without either of those, there is a monthly fee. Advantage Plus Checking is similar but designed for people who use Bank of America's investment or wealth management services.

For savings, Advantage Savings earns interest on your balance, though the rate is usually low. The interest rate changes based on how much money you have in the account and what the Federal Reserve does with interest rates — Bank of America publishes current rates on their website.

If you're not sure which account to open, start with Advantage SafePass Checking. It's the most straightforward option, and you can change to a different account type later without closing the account.

What happens after you open your account

Your account number and routing number will appear in the Bank of America app or online banking portal as soon as your account opens. You'll need these numbers if you want to set up direct deposit from an employer or receive money transfers from other people. Your routing number is the same for all Bank of America customers in your region, but your account number is unique to you.

Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Bank of America ATM using your temporary card number in the app, or you can visit a branch and ask a teller to withdraw cash for you. Once your card arrives, set up it by calling the number on the back or using the Bank of America app.

Set up online banking and the mobile app right away. This lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo. You can also set up alerts so Bank of America texts or emails you if your balance drops below a certain amount or if there's unusual activity on your account.

Fees and things to watch for

Bank of America charges fees for certain actions: overdrafts (when you spend more than you have), using an out-of-network ATM, wire transfers, and some other services. The monthly account fee is waived if you set up direct deposit, keep a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500 depending on the account), or meet other requirements. Check the account details when you open to see which option works for you.

Overdraft fees are one of the biggest surprises for new account holders. If you spend $5 more than you have, Bank of America will cover it but charge you a fee — usually $35. You can turn off overdraft protection in your account settings so the transaction straightforward declines instead, which costs nothing. Many people prefer this because it prevents accidental overspending.

If you don't have an ID or Social Security number

Bank of America requires a Social Security number or ITIN to open an account. If you have an ITIN but no Social Security number, you can open an account using your ITIN. If you don't have either, you cannot open a Bank of America account — federal law requires banks to verify identity and tax status.

If you're in the United States without a Social Security number or ITIN, look for a community bank or credit union in your area. Some of these institutions have different policies and may be able to work with you. Call ahead and ask whether they can open an account without a Social Security number or ITIN.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Online account opening takes about 10 minutes, and your account is usually active when ready. Opening in person at a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes. Either way, your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account before the card arrives.

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

Bank of America allows minors to open accounts, but a parent or guardian must be present and sign the paperwork. The adult becomes a co-owner of the account. Some branches have special teen checking accounts with different features and fees — ask when you visit.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

Bank of America requires a mailing address to open an account. If you're homeless or living in a shelter, use the shelter's address if they allow mail to be delivered there. Some community organizations also provide mailing addresses for people in this situation — ask a local social services office for resources.

Can I open an account online if I live outside the United States?

Bank of America's online account opening is available only to people with a U.S. address and Social Security number or ITIN. If you live outside the U.S., you must open an account in person at a branch, and you'll need to provide additional documentation about your residency status.

What's the difference between a checking and savings account?

A checking account is for money you use regularly — you can write checks, use a debit card, and transfer money out as often as you want. A savings account earns interest on your balance but limits how many times per month you can withdraw money. Most people open a checking account first, then add a savings account later to set money aside.