What you need to open a Regions checking account
Regions Bank lets you open a checking account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Most Regions checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — some have no minimum, while others ask for $25 or more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.
The entire process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or on the phone. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and have your Social Security number ready. Regions will run a check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history report — this is standard across most banks and does not affect your credit score.
You do not need to be a current Regions customer to open a checking account. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign and be present for the account opening.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Regions checking account online, by phone, or in a branch with just a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit.
- Regions offers multiple checking account types with different minimum deposit requirements, so compare the options before you choose.
- The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.
- Regions will check your banking history through ChexSystems, which is a standard verification step that does not affect your credit.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must co-sign and be present for the account opening.
Opening online through Regions' website
Go to regions.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually located on the homepage or under a menu labeled "Checking" or "Products." Click through to the online application. You will enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Regions will ask which type of checking account you want — this matters because different accounts have different fees and minimum balances.
Next, you will choose your opening deposit amount and how you want to fund it. If you have another bank account, you can transfer money directly using your routing and account number. If you want to use a debit card, have that card number ready. After you submit your information, Regions will verify your identity and run the ChexSystems check. Most people get instant approval and can see their account number right away.
Once approved, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up online banking and bill pay immediately, even before the card arrives. Some Regions branches let you pick up a temporary debit card the same day if you need one urgently.
Opening by phone with a Regions representative
Call Regions at 1-800-regions (1-800-734-4667) to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form: your personal details, which account type you want, and how much you are depositing. Have your ID number and Social Security number ready, and know which bank account or debit card you will use to fund the deposit.
The phone process is slower than online — it typically takes 20 to 30 minutes because the representative must verify each piece of information. You will receive your account number at the end of the call and can start using online banking immediately. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Phone opening is useful if you have questions about which account type fits your needs or if you prefer talking to a person. Regions customer service is available Monday through Friday during business hours, and some lines are open on Saturday mornings.
Opening in person at a Regions branch
Walk into any Regions branch with your government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and your opening deposit. Bring a checkbook or bank statement from another account if you have one — this helps speed up verification. Tell the branch employee you want to open a checking account, and they will guide you to a desk to complete the application.
The in-person process takes 15 to 20 minutes. The employee will enter your information into the system, run the ChexSystems check, and usually approve you on the spot. You will receive your account number immediately and can set up online banking right there. Many branches can issue a temporary debit card the same day, so you can use it before your permanent card arrives in the mail.
In-person opening is the best option if you want to ask questions about account features, fees, or which type of account suits your spending habits. It is also the fastest way to get a usable debit card the same day.
Choosing the right Regions checking account type
Regions offers several checking account options, and the one you choose affects your monthly fees and minimum balance requirements. The most common types are a basic checking account with low or no minimum deposit, a rewards checking account that pays interest on your balance, and a premium checking account with higher minimums but more features.
Before you open, visit regions.com and compare the accounts side by side. Look at the monthly maintenance fee, the minimum opening deposit, any balance requirements to waive fees, and what perks come with each account — such as free ATM access, bill pay, or mobile check deposit. If you keep a low balance most of the time, choose an account with no minimum or a low one. If you maintain a higher balance, a rewards account might earn you interest.
You can change account types later if your needs shift, so do not worry about making a permanent choice. Most account changes take one business day and do not require a new application.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is active immediately after approval, whether you opened online, by phone, or in person. You can log into online banking and set up bill pay, mobile deposits, and transfers right away. Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days by mail. Some branches can activate a temporary card the same day if you need one.
When your permanent debit card arrives, activate it by calling the number on the back or using the Regions mobile app. You will be asked to verify your identity and set a PIN. After activation, you can use it at any ATM, store, or online retailer that accepts Visa.
Set up direct deposit if your employer or a government program sends you regular payments. You can find your routing number and account number in online banking or on a check. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to start, so set it up as soon as your account opens if you want it ready for your next payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Regions checking account if I have been denied by another bank?
Regions uses ChexSystems to check your banking history, not your credit score. If you were denied by another bank, it may show up in ChexSystems. Regions will still review your application, but approval is not may provide. If you are denied, ask Regions why — you have the right to see your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors.
What is the minimum deposit to open a Regions checking account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type. Some Regions checking accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more. Check the specific account details on regions.com before you apply, or ask a representative which account has the lowest opening deposit.
How long does it take to get my debit card after opening?
Your permanent debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need to use a card immediately, visit a Regions branch and ask for a temporary debit card — many branches can issue one the same day you open your account.
Can I open a joint checking account at Regions?
Yes. Both account holders must be present in person or provide written authorization. Each person will need a photo ID and Social Security number. You can designate who has signing authority and how the account is owned — as joint tenants, tenants in common, or other arrangements depending on your state.
What if I make a mistake on my application?
If you catch an error before submitting, go back and correct it. If you submit and then notice a mistake, contact Regions customer service right away at 1-800-734-4667. They can usually update your information without closing and reopening the account, though it may take one business day to process the change.