Yes, you can open most Regions Bank accounts online without visiting a branch

Regions Bank lets you open a checking or savings account through their website or mobile app without stepping into a physical branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires basic information: your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, proof of address, and a funding source (another bank account or debit card). You'll need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident.

Not every account type is available online. Some specialty accounts, business accounts, and accounts for people under 18 require a visit to a branch or a phone call. Before you start, check which specific account you want — Regions offers checking, savings, money market, and certificate of deposit (CD) accounts, and availability varies by product.

Key Takeaways

  • Most personal checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 to 15 minutes through Regions' website or mobile app.
  • You will need your Social Security number, a government ID, proof of address, and a way to fund the account (another bank account or debit card).
  • Some account types, including business accounts and accounts for minors, require a branch visit or phone call to complete.
  • Your account may be ready to use immediately after approval, though some transactions may be restricted for the first few days.

What information and documents you need to have ready

Before you start the online application, gather these items: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and a current address (a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement works). Regions will verify your identity using this information and may run a background check through ChexSystems, which tracks banking history.

You'll also need a way to fund the account. Regions accepts transfers from another bank account (using routing and account numbers) or a debit card. If you're funding with a debit card, have that card number and expiration date ready. The initial deposit amount varies by account type — some checking accounts have no minimum, while others may require $25 or more.

Step-by-step process for opening an account online

Go to Regions.com and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" button, usually on the homepage. Select the type of account you want (checking, savings, or money market). The site will ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, and phone number.

Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID and proof of address. Regions uses automated verification for most documents, though some applications may require manual review. After that, choose how you want to fund the account and enter your funding source details. Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign electronically. You should receive confirmation within minutes, and your account number will appear on screen or in an email.

Some accounts are ready to use immediately; others may have a 24-hour hold while Regions completes verification. During this time, you can log in and set up online banking, but you may not be able to make transfers or withdrawals until the hold lifts.

Account types available online and which ones require a branch visit

Regions offers several account types through their online application. Checking accounts include options like the Regions NOW Checking (no monthly fee if you meet direct deposit or balance requirements) and Regions Essentials Checking (lower balance threshold). Savings accounts range from basic savings to high-yield savings, depending on your region and current rates. Money market accounts and CDs are also available online.

Business accounts, joint accounts with a minor, accounts for people under 18, and certain specialty products (like accounts for non-U.S. residents or those without a Social Security number) typically require a phone call or branch visit. If you fall into one of these categories, call Regions at 1-800-REGIONS (1-800-734-4667) to start the process over the phone, or visit a local branch.

How long approval takes and when you can start using the account

Most online applications are approved within minutes to a few hours. Regions will send you an email confirmation with your account number and login credentials. You can usually log into online banking right away and set up bill pay, transfers, and alerts.

However, some transactions may be restricted for 24 to 48 hours while Regions completes identity verification. You can deposit checks through mobile deposit immediately in most cases, but external transfers (moving money to or from another bank) may be delayed. If Regions needs additional information or manual review, approval can take up to 5 business days.

What happens if your application is denied or flagged

Regions may deny your application if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other banking violations. If this happens, you'll receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to dispute inaccurate information in your ChexSystems report — contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 to request a copy and file a dispute.

If your application is flagged for manual review, Regions may ask for additional documents or clarification. They might request a recent bank statement, proof of income, or a letter explaining any red flags. Respond to these requests as quickly as possible; delays can extend approval to 5 to 10 business days. If you're repeatedly denied, ask whether Regions offers a second-chance checking account, which has higher fees but lower approval barriers.

Funding your new account and setting up transfers

During the online application, you can fund your account immediately using a debit card or by transferring money from another bank account. Debit card deposits typically post within 1 to 2 business days. Bank transfers (ACH) usually take 3 to 5 business days to arrive, depending on the sending bank.

After your account is open and active, you can set up recurring transfers through Regions' online banking portal or mobile app. You can also link external accounts for bill pay or periodic transfers. If you need to move money quickly, Regions offers wire transfer services (fees apply) and same-day ACH in some cases, though these are not available during the initial application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Regions account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No, Regions requires a Social Security number for online account opening. If you don't have one, you'll need to visit a branch or call 1-800-REGIONS to discuss alternative options. Some branches may be able to open accounts using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in limited cases, but this is not may provide.

What if I'm denied because of ChexSystems?

Request your ChexSystems report at 1-800-428-9623 and review it for errors. If you find inaccurate information, file a dispute with ChexSystems. You can also contact Regions directly to ask about second-chance checking accounts, which are designed for people with banking history issues.

Can I open a joint account online?

Joint accounts between two adults can usually be opened online. Both account holders will need to provide their information and verify their identity. If one account holder is under 18, you'll need to visit a branch or call Regions to complete the application.

How do I know if my account is fully active?

Log into your Regions online banking account. If you can see your account number, routing number, and balance, and if you can initiate transfers, your account is active. If transfers are blocked or you see a message about pending verification, wait 24 to 48 hours and check again.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same time?

Yes, you can open more than one account during the same online session or in separate sessions. However, if you open many accounts in a short time, Regions may flag your activity for review, which could delay approval on subsequent accounts.