What you need to open a TD Bank account

TD Bank lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. You will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type). Most people can complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes online, and your account becomes active the same day or the next business day.

If you are opening an account online, you will also need a valid email address and a phone number where TD can reach you. The bank will verify your identity during signup by asking questions about your financial history — this is standard practice and takes a few minutes. If you open in person or by phone, a TD representative will walk you through the same steps.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a TD Bank account online, by phone, or at a branch, and most online accounts are active the same day.
  • You will need a government ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit; the deposit amount depends on which account type you choose.
  • TD Bank offers checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts, each with different fees and minimum balance requirements.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at most branches.

Opening an account online

Go to TD Bank's website and select "Open an Account." You will choose between checking, savings, or money market accounts. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. TD will ask for your Social Security number and the last four digits of your driver's license or state ID.

Next, TD will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history — questions like "Which of these addresses did you live at?" or "Which lender issued this account?" Answer honestly; if you cannot answer a question, skip it and TD will ask another. Once verification is complete, you will choose your account features (like debit card delivery speed) and set up online banking login credentials.

Finally, you will make your opening deposit. TD accepts transfers from another bank account, a debit card, or a wire transfer. The deposit must clear before your account is fully active, which usually happens the same day for transfers from other banks. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account at a TD Bank branch

Bring your government-issued ID, Social Security number, and your opening deposit to any TD Bank branch. A representative will ask for your contact information and verify your identity in person. This process is faster than online verification because the ID check is immediate.

You can make your opening deposit in cash, check, or transfer from another account. If you deposit cash or a check, your account is active immediately. If you transfer from another bank, the transfer may take one to two business days to clear, but your account itself opens right away. You can request a debit card on the spot; some branches issue temporary cards while you wait for your permanent card to arrive by mail.

Account types and minimum deposits

TD Bank offers several account types, and the opening deposit requirement varies. A basic checking account typically requires $25 to $100 to open. A savings account usually requires $25 to $100. Money market accounts often require $2,500 or more. TD also offers student checking accounts with lower or no minimum deposit requirements if you are under 25 and enrolled in school.

Each account type has different monthly fees and interest rates. Checking accounts may charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet conditions like maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Savings accounts earn interest, but the rate is low and may change. Money market accounts earn higher interest but require a larger opening deposit and may limit the number of withdrawals per month.

Before you open, compare the account features on TD's website or ask a branch representative which account fits your needs. The account you open is not permanent — you can switch to a different account type later if your situation changes.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log into TD's online banking portal or mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can activate it by calling the number on the card or through the mobile app.

TD will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking and bill pay. If you set up direct deposit, your employer can start depositing your paycheck within one to two pay periods. You can also link external bank accounts to transfer money in and out, though external transfers may take one to three business days.

If you do not have a Social Security number

If you are a non-citizen or do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will need to open the account in person at a TD Bank branch, not online. Bring your ITIN documentation, a government-issued ID from your country of origin, and proof of your U.S. address (like a utility bill or lease).

The process is the same as opening with a Social Security number, but verification may take longer because TD needs to confirm your ITIN with the IRS. Ask the branch representative about the timeline before you leave. Some branches complete this verification the same day; others may take a few business days.

Common reasons accounts are delayed or declined

TD may delay your account opening if your identity verification fails. This usually happens if your answers to security questions do not match TD's records, or if you have a thin credit history and TD cannot verify you. If this occurs, TD will contact you by phone or email and ask you to visit a branch in person with your ID.

TD may decline to open an account if you have a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts at other banks, or if you appear on the ChexSystems list (a database of banking problems). If you are declined, ask TD why — the bank must tell you. You can dispute inaccurate information in ChexSystems by contacting the company directly. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts if you have been declined elsewhere; TD does not always advertise these, so ask a branch representative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a TD Bank account if I do not have a bank account elsewhere?

Yes. TD does not require you to have an existing bank account. If you cannot verify your identity online because you have no credit history, open your account in person at a branch instead. Bring your ID and opening deposit, and a representative will verify you face-to-face.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. TD offers expedited delivery for an extra fee, which takes 2 to 3 business days. You can request expedited delivery when you open your account online or ask a branch representative. Some branches can issue a temporary card you can use immediately while you wait for the permanent card.

What is the minimum opening deposit for a TD Bank checking account?

Most TD checking accounts require $25 to $100 to open. Student checking accounts may have no minimum deposit. The exact amount depends on the account type and your state. Check TD's website or call a branch to confirm the current minimum for the account you want.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders must be present in person at a branch, or you can open online and add the second person later. Both people will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers. Joint accounts let both people access the money and make decisions about the account.

What if my online identity verification fails?

TD will contact you by phone or email and ask you to complete verification in person at a branch. Bring your government ID and Social Security card or ITIN documentation. In-person verification usually takes a few minutes, and your account will be active the same day.