What you need to open a Wells Fargo account

Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you do it online, or longer if you go to a branch because of wait times.

You'll also need a valid email address and a phone number. If you're opening a joint account, both account holders must provide their own ID and Social Security number. Wells Fargo will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database, to verify you don't have outstanding issues with other banks.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit; opening online takes 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Wells Fargo checks your banking history through ChexSystems, which may delay or block your account if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags at other banks.
  • Minimum opening deposits vary by account type—some checking accounts require $25, while others require $100 or more.
  • You can fund your new account with a debit card, bank transfer, or cash deposit at a branch on the same day you open it.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and click the link to open a new account. You'll choose between checking, savings, or money market accounts. Wells Fargo will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and email. Have your ID ready—you may need to photograph it or answer security questions based on your credit history.

After you submit your information, Wells Fargo reviews it and sends you a confirmation email within minutes. Your account number appears in that email, and you can set up online banking and a debit card right away. You'll need to make your initial deposit within a set timeframe (usually 10 days) or the account may be closed.

Opening an account at a branch

Bring your government ID, Social Security number, and your initial deposit to any Wells Fargo branch. A banker will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about account types, and help you choose overdraft protection or other features. This route takes longer because of branch wait times, but you can deposit cash immediately and leave with a temporary debit card.

If you're opening a joint account, both account holders must be present with their own IDs and Social Security numbers. The banker will explain how the account works—whether both people can withdraw funds, whether one person can close it, and what happens if one account holder dies.

Opening an account by phone

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to open an account over the phone. A representative will collect your personal information, verify your identity, and explain your account options. You'll still need to make your initial deposit by transferring funds from another bank account or mailing a check, since you can't deposit cash over the phone.

Phone opening takes 20 to 30 minutes because the representative must verify each piece of information. Your account opens immediately, but you won't have a physical debit card for 7 to 10 business days.

Minimum deposits and account types

Wells Fargo offers several account types, each with different opening deposit requirements. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account requires a $25 opening deposit. The Wells Fargo Preferred Checking account requires $100. Savings accounts typically require $25 to $100 depending on the product.

Some accounts come with monthly maintenance fees ($10 to $15) unless you meet certain conditions—like keeping a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a linked savings account. Wells Fargo waives fees for customers under 18 or over 55 on certain accounts. Read the account disclosure document before you open to understand what fees apply to you.

What happens if Wells Fargo denies your account

Wells Fargo may deny your account if ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts, fraud flags, or multiple closed accounts at other banks. If this happens, you'll receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.

If you're denied, contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or visit chexsystems.com to review your file. You can add a statement to your report if you believe the information is inaccurate. Some people denied at Wells Fargo open accounts at banks with less strict policies, like credit unions or online banks, while they work to clear their ChexSystems record.

Funding your new account

You can fund your Wells Fargo account with a transfer from another bank account, a debit card, or cash if you opened at a branch. If you transfer from another bank, use the routing number 121000248 (Wells Fargo's standard routing number for ACH transfers). The transfer usually takes 1 to 3 business days to appear in your account.

If you opened online or by phone and want to deposit cash, you'll need to visit a branch or use a Wells Fargo ATM. Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, but you can request expedited delivery for a fee or pick up a temporary card at a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I'm under 18?

Yes, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-own the account. Both you and the adult must bring government ID and Social Security numbers to a branch, or the adult can open it online and add you as an authorized user later. Accounts for minors typically have no monthly fees.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, bring documentation from the IRS. If you don't have either, you may not be able to open a Wells Fargo account, but some credit unions and online banks have different requirements.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited delivery (usually 2 to 3 business days) for a fee, or pick up a temporary card at a branch on the day you open your account. You can also use your account number and routing number to set up online bill pay before your card arrives.

Can I open multiple accounts at Wells Fargo?

Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account, or multiple accounts of the same type. Each account has its own number and can be linked for transfers. Some account combinations come with benefits like waived fees or higher interest rates on savings.

What if I made a mistake on my application?

Contact Wells Fargo immediately at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch. If the error is in your name, address, or Social Security number, they can correct it before your account fully activates. If the account is already open, you may need to close it and open a new one with correct information.