How to Open Account in Bank of America?
How to Open account in Bank of America Online & In-Person (2025 Guide)
Opening a Bank of America (BoA) account is simple whether you apply online or in-person. This guide covers eligibility, required documents, fees, and pro tips to get approved quickly.
✅ Quick Summary: Bank of America Account Opening
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | 25Checking),100 (Savings) |
| Monthly Fees | 4.95–25 (Waivable) |
| Eligibility | US residents, SSN/ITIN holders |
| Processing Time | Instant (Online), Same-Day (In-Person) |
| Credit Check? | Soft pull (No impact on score) |
🔗 Apply Now: Bank of America Official Site
📌 Step 1: Choose the Right Bank of America Account
1. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance® (Best for Students)
- Monthly Fee: $4.95 (Waived for students under 25)
- No overdraft fees
- Debit card included
2. Bank of America Advantage Plus® (Most Popular)
- Monthly Fee: 12Waivedwith1,500+ balance/direct deposit)
- Overdraft protection
- Free mobile banking
3. Bank of America Advantage Savings®
- Monthly Fee: 8Waivedwith500+ balance)
- APY: 0.01%–0.04% (Low, but easy access)
💡 Pro Tip:
“Open a checking + savings combo to waive fees easily.”
📝 Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
✔ Government-issued ID (Driver’s license, passport)
✔ Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
✔ Proof of Address (Utility bill, lease agreement)
✔ Initial deposit (25orchecking,100 for savings)
🚫 No SSN? Use an ITIN (Apply via IRS Form W-7).
💻 Step 3: Apply Online (Fastest Method)
- Go to Bank of America’s Website
- Select “Open an Account” → Choose checking/savings
- Enter Personal Info (Name, SSN, address)
- Verify Identity (Upload ID + selfie)
- Fund Your Account (Transfer from another bank or debit card)
- Receive Debit Card (Mailed in 5–7 business days)
⏳ Approval Time: Instant (If docs are correct).
🏦 Step 4: Open an Account In-Person (For Non-US Residents)
If you don’t have an SSN/ITIN yet, visit a BoA branch with:
- Passport + US Visa (B1/B2, F1, H1B, etc.)
- Proof of US Address (Hotel/Airbnb receipt works temporarily)
- Cash deposit ($100 recommended)
📍 Find a Branch: Bank of America Locator
💰 Bank of America Fees & How to Avoid Them
| Fee Type | Cost | How to Waive |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Checking Fee | $12 | Keep 1500+ balance OR setup direct deposit (250+) |
| ATM Fee (Non-BoA) | $2.50+ | Use BoA ATMs (16,000+ nationwide) |
| Overdraft Fee | $35 | Opt out of overdraft protection |
| Wire Transfer | $30–$45 | Use Zelle (free for transfers under $1,000) |
💸 Pro Tip:
“Set up a direct deposit to avoid monthly fees automatically.”
❌ Common Reasons for Denial & Fixes
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Low Credit Score | Open a secured account first |
| No SSN/ITIN | Apply in-person with passport + visa |
| Fraud Alert on ChexSystems | Dispute errors at ChexSystems.com |
| Non-US Resident | Try Wise or Payoneer instead |
🔒 Bank of America Security Features
✔ Mobile Banking App (Biometric login)
✔ Card Lock/Unlock (If stolen)
✔ $0 Liability Guarantee (Fraud protection)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I open a BoA account without an SSN?
Yes, but only in-person with a passport + US visa.
2. Does Bank of America do a credit check?
Only a soft pull (no impact on score).
3. How long does it take to get a debit card?
5–7 business days by mail.
4. Can I use Zelle with BoA?
Yes! Free transfers to other US banks.
5. What’s the minimum age to open an account?
18+ (Teens need a parent/guardian joint account).
💡 Pro Tips for Bank of America Users
✔ Download the BoA app (Mobile check deposit)
✔ Enable alerts (Low balance, large transactions)
✔ Use Keep the Change® (Rounds up purchases to save)
