What you need before you start

Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit before your account opens. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch. Online takes about 10 minutes if your information matches their records. In-branch or by phone usually takes longer because a representative verifies your identity in real time.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. A basic checking account typically requires $25 to $100. Some savings accounts require $100. If you don't have that amount right now, you can deposit it after opening the account at an ATM or branch, though the account won't be fully active until the deposit clears.

You'll also need a current mailing address. Bank of America will send your debit card and PIN to this address, so make sure it's correct before you submit.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit of $25 to $100 depending on account type.
  • Opening online takes about 10 minutes if your information matches Bank of America's records; in-branch or by phone takes longer because identity verification happens in real time.
  • Your debit card and PIN will be mailed to the address you provide, so double-check it before submitting.
  • If you don't have the initial deposit right now, you can open the account and deposit money afterward, but the account won't be fully active until the deposit clears.
  • You can manage your account online or through the Bank of America mobile app once it opens.

Opening an account online

Go to bankofamerica.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. You'll be asked to choose your account type—checking, savings, or both. Bank of America offers several checking options: the basic Checking account, Advantage SafeBalance (designed for people new to banking or rebuilding credit), and Advantage Plus (with overdraft protection). Read the fee structure for each before choosing, as overdraft fees and monthly maintenance fees vary.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Bank of America will run a soft credit check and verify your identity against public records. If everything matches, you'll see your account number when ready and can set up online banking login credentials right away.

You'll be asked for an initial deposit method. You can link an external bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or wire funds. The transfer usually takes one to three business days. Your account is technically open once you submit, but you won't be able to use the debit card or write checks until the deposit clears and your card arrives in the mail.

Opening an account in a Bank of America branch

Find your nearest branch using the branch locator on bankofamerica.com. Bring your government photo ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit in cash or a check. A representative will walk you through the account setup, verify your identity in person, and answer questions about fees and features.

In-branch opening usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready for online purchases, and your permanent card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. This is the fastest way to start using your account the same day.

Opening an account by phone

Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to open an account over the phone. A representative will ask for your ID information, Social Security number, and current address. They'll verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. This process takes 15 to 25 minutes.

You'll arrange the initial deposit by phone—usually by transferring from another bank account or providing a debit card number. Your account opens when ready, and your debit card and welcome materials arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log into online banking or the Bank of America mobile app using the username and password you created. You can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit. You can also visit any Bank of America branch or ATM to withdraw cash or make deposits.

Your debit card will arrive separately from your welcome materials. When it arrives, you'll need to set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the mobile app. Your PIN will come in a separate mailing for security reasons. Until both arrive, you can still access your money through ATMs using a temporary PIN or through online transfers.

Bank of America charges monthly maintenance fees on most accounts unless you meet certain conditions—usually a minimum balance or a direct deposit each month. Check your account agreement to understand what fee applies to your specific account type and how to avoid it.

If your online process is denied or delayed

Bank of America may delay your process if your information doesn't match their records or if there's a discrepancy in your identity verification. They'll contact you by phone or email to ask for additional documents. This can take a few days to a week.

Your process may be denied if you have an outstanding negative balance at another bank, a history of fraud, or if you're listed on ChexSystems (a banking history report). If denied, Bank of America will send you a letter explaining why. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by visiting chexsystems.com.

If you're denied, the Advantage SafeBalance account is designed for people with banking history issues and may be available to you even if the standard checking account isn't. Ask a representative about this option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Bank of America requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN when opening in person.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account?

Debit cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you open in a branch, you may receive a temporary card number when ready that you can use online. If you open online or by phone, you can request expedited shipping for a fee, usually $10 to $15.

What's the difference between the checking account types?

The basic Checking account has a $12 monthly fee unless you maintain a $1,500 balance or set up direct deposit. Advantage SafeBalance has a $10 monthly fee and is designed for people rebuilding credit—it limits overdrafts. Advantage Plus includes overdraft protection and costs $12 monthly. Compare the fee structures on bankofamerica.com before choosing.

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

Bank of America offers accounts for minors, but they must be opened with a parent or guardian present. The adult becomes a co-owner and can access the account. Visit a branch with your child's birth certificate and your ID to open a minor account.

What if I need to change my address after opening my account?

Log into your online banking account, go to Settings or Profile, and update your address there. Changes take effect when ready for digital services but may take a few days for mailed materials like statements. You can also update your address at any branch or by calling 1-800-432-1000.