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 will need an existing bank account or debit card to fund the new account during signup.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products still require a branch visit or phone call. If you are looking for a basic checking or savings account, the online route is straightforward and available 24/7.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes using a computer or mobile app.
  • You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and proof of identity verification to complete the process.
  • An initial deposit is required at signup, and you must fund it from an existing bank account or debit card.
  • Some account types, including Money Market accounts, are not available for online opening and require a phone call or branch visit.
  • Your new account number and debit card details appear immediately after approval, though the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. Bank of America will ask you to verify your identity during signup, and the process is faster if you have this information ready.

You will also need an existing bank account or debit card to make the initial deposit. Bank of America does not accept cash deposits during online signup, so you cannot fund the account at an ATM or branch and complete the rest online. The initial deposit amount depends on the account type — some checking accounts require $100, while others have no minimum.

The step-by-step process

Go to bankofamerica.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Bank of America mobile app. Select the account type you want (checking, savings, or both). You will enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number.

Next, Bank of America will verify your identity. This usually happens instantly through a third-party verification service that checks your information against public records. If verification fails, you may be asked to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions. Once verified, you will choose a username and password, set up security questions, and link an existing bank account or debit card for the initial deposit.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit. Your account opens immediately, and you will see your account number and routing number on screen. You can set up direct deposit, transfers, and bill pay right away. Your physical debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days.

Initial deposit requirements and timing

The minimum opening deposit varies by account. Bank of America checking accounts typically require $100 to $500, depending on the specific product. Some savings accounts have no minimum. The deposit must come from an external bank account or debit card — you cannot transfer money from another Bank of America account you already own.

The deposit posts within one to two business days. Your account is active and usable immediately after approval, even if the deposit has not yet cleared. You can use your account number for direct deposit or transfers right away, and you will receive a temporary debit card number for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.

Accounts you cannot open online

Bank of America Money Market accounts, CDs, and some specialty accounts (like accounts for non-U.S. residents or those with certain visa statuses) require a phone call or branch visit. If you want one of these products, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a local branch to complete the process.

Joint accounts can be opened online, but both account holders must complete the verification process separately. If you are opening an account for a minor, you will need to visit a branch or call — the online system does not support custodial accounts.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is ready to use immediately. You can set up direct deposit using your routing number (026009593 for most Bank of America accounts) and account number. You can also transfer money from another bank using external transfers, though the first transfer may take longer while Bank of America verifies the external account.

Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can use a temporary card number for online purchases, or visit a Bank of America ATM to withdraw cash using your account number and PIN. You will receive a welcome email with your account details and links to set up mobile banking and other features.

Common reasons the online process gets blocked

Identity verification fails most often when the information you enter does not match public records exactly — a middle initial, nickname, or old address can cause a mismatch. If this happens, you will be asked to upload a photo of your ID. Make sure the name and address on your ID match what you enter during signup.

The system may also decline you if you have a history of fraud or unpaid fees with Bank of America or other banks. ChexSystems, a banking history database, is checked during signup. If you have been flagged in ChexSystems, you can still open an account by visiting a branch and speaking to a banker, or by calling 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Bank of America account online?

You must have a valid U.S. government-issued ID and a Social Security number or ITIN. Non-citizens with these documents can open accounts online. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to visit a branch or call to explore other options.

Can I open an account on my phone?

Yes. The Bank of America mobile app has the same account opening flow as the website. The process is identical and takes about 10 minutes. You will still need to verify your identity and link an external bank account for the deposit.

What if I do not have an existing bank account to fund the deposit?

You cannot complete the online process without an external bank account or debit card. Visit a Bank of America branch with cash and a valid ID, and a banker can open the account and accept your deposit in person. Some branches also accept wire transfers if you have access to another bank's wire service.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

The physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary card number for online purchases immediately after signup, and you can withdraw cash at Bank of America ATMs using your account number and PIN while you wait.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same time?

Yes. You can open a checking and savings account in the same session, or open separate accounts on different days. Each account will have its own account number and debit card (if applicable).