You can open some US Bank accounts online, but not all of them
US Bank lets you open a checking or savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account immediately. However, US Bank does not open all account types online — certain products like their investment accounts or some specialty savings products require a phone call or branch visit.
The accounts you can open online are their standard checking accounts (including their basic checking and premium checking options) and savings accounts. You will need a Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address already on file with a credit bureau. You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident.
The online process moves faster than a branch visit because US Bank verifies your identity electronically rather than asking you to show documents in person. Most people complete the entire process on their phone or computer and have an account number within minutes.
Key Takeaways
- US Bank's checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes using their website or mobile app.
- You will need a Social Security number, government-issued ID, and a way to verify your identity through a credit bureau or phone number.
- Some account types — including investment accounts and certain specialty products — cannot be opened online and require a phone call or branch visit.
- You can fund your new account immediately after opening it using a debit card, bank transfer, or check deposit through mobile banking.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online application: your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your current address, and your phone number or email. US Bank will ask for your employment information, but this is optional — you can skip it if you prefer not to provide it.
You will also need a way to fund the account. US Bank accepts transfers from another bank account, debit card deposits, or check deposits through their mobile app. If you are transferring money from another bank, have that account number and routing number ready. The transfer usually takes one to three business days to show up in your new US Bank account.
If US Bank cannot verify your identity electronically — which happens occasionally when their system cannot match your information to credit bureau records — they will ask you to call their customer service line or visit a branch in person. This usually takes an extra day or two, but it is not common.
The online application step by step
Start at usbank.com or open the US Bank mobile app. Look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Select the type of account you want — checking or savings — and choose the specific product (US Bank offers several checking options with different features and minimum balances).
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. US Bank will ask whether you want online statements, paper statements, or both. You can change this later. Review the account terms and fee schedule — US Bank's checking accounts have different monthly fees depending on the product, and some fees are waived if you meet certain balance or deposit requirements.
Verify your identity. US Bank will ask you to confirm information they pull from credit bureaus — usually your address history or previous loan details. Answer their questions correctly and they will approve you immediately. If verification fails, they will direct you to call or visit a branch.
Choose how to fund your account. If you are transferring from another bank, enter that account's routing number and account number. If you are using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. Review everything one more time and submit. Your account opens instantly and you receive an account number right away.
When you cannot open an account online
US Bank requires a phone call or branch visit for certain situations. If you are under 18, you cannot open an account online — a parent or guardian must visit a branch with you. If you do not have a Social Security number (for example, if you are a non-resident foreign national), you will need to visit a branch or call to discuss other options.
If you want to open a joint account with someone else, you can start the process online, but both account holders must verify their identity. This sometimes requires a phone call to confirm both people are present and agree to the account terms. US Bank will tell you during the application whether your specific situation requires this step.
Investment accounts, brokerage accounts, and some specialty savings products (like certain CDs or money market accounts) cannot be opened online. US Bank will direct you to call their investment services team or visit a branch for these products.
Funding your account and getting your debit card
Your account is ready to use immediately after you open it, but your debit card takes five to seven business days to arrive by mail. During that time, you can still access your money through mobile banking — you can transfer funds to other accounts, pay bills online, or set up direct deposit.
If you need to withdraw cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit any US Bank branch and withdraw from your new account using your account number and ID. Some branches can issue a temporary debit card on the spot, though this varies by location.
Direct deposit is the fastest way to fund your account if you have a paycheck coming. You can set up direct deposit through your employer's payroll system using your new US Bank account and routing number. The routing number is the same for all US Bank accounts regardless of which branch you opened it at.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
US Bank's checking accounts have monthly maintenance fees that vary by product. Their basic checking account has a monthly fee (the amount changes periodically), but the fee is waived if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Their premium checking account has a higher fee but includes benefits like ATM fee reimbursement and higher interest rates.
Savings accounts also have monthly fees, but these are typically waived if you keep a minimum balance. US Bank publishes their current fee schedule on their website — check it during the application process so you know what to expect.
Overdraft fees apply if you spend more than you have in your account. US Bank charges a fee per overdraft transaction, and you can have multiple overdrafts in a single day. You can opt out of overdraft protection if you prefer — this means transactions will be declined rather than charged an overdraft fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a US Bank account online?
The application itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens instantly and you receive an account number right away. Your debit card arrives by mail in five to seven business days. If identity verification fails, US Bank will contact you within one business day to ask you to call or visit a branch.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
You can start the process online, but both account holders must verify their identity. Depending on your situation, US Bank may require a phone call to confirm both people are present and agree to the account terms. The application will tell you whether this step is needed for your specific request.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You cannot open an account online without a Social Security number. Contact US Bank by phone or visit a branch to discuss other options. Non-resident foreign nationals may be able to open accounts with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, but this requires speaking with a representative.
Can I use my new account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. You can transfer money, pay bills, and set up direct deposit through mobile banking immediately. You can also visit a US Bank branch and withdraw cash using your account number and ID. Some branches can issue a temporary debit card on the spot, though availability varies.
What happens if US Bank cannot verify my identity online?
US Bank will contact you within one business day and ask you to call their customer service line or visit a branch in person. Bring your government-issued ID and Social Security card. This usually takes one additional day to complete, and your account will open once verification is finished.