How to Open a Wells Fargo Bank Account

What you need before you start

Wells Fargo requires you to bring a government-issued photo ID and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. You will also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but most personal checking accounts require $25 or more to open.

If you are opening an account online or by phone, you will need the same documents available, though you may be able to verify your identity through a video call rather than in person. Have your phone number and email address ready, as Wells Fargo will use these to contact you about your account and send statements.

If you do not have a photo ID yet, you will need to visit a branch in person. Wells Fargo cannot complete the account opening without verifying your identity against an official document.

Key Takeaways

• You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit of at least $25 to open most Wells Fargo checking accounts.
• You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Wells Fargo branch, and the process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
• Wells Fargo will run a ChexSystems check to verify you have not had problems with bank accounts at other institutions.
• Once your account is open, you can order a debit card, set up direct deposit, and link external accounts for transfers.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the type of account you want — Wells Fargo offers checking, savings, and money market accounts with different features and fee structures. Read the account details carefully, as some accounts waive monthly fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will ask about your employment status and income, though this is optional. You will then verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID or by answering security questions based on your credit history.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit your application. If Wells Fargo approves you, your account number will appear on screen immediately. You can then set up online banking, choose a username and password, and make your initial deposit by transferring funds from another bank account or by providing a debit card number.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Bring your photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and your initial deposit to any Wells Fargo branch. A banker will ask you the same questions as the online form: your address, phone number, employment status, and the type of account you want. The banker will verify your identity against your ID and run a ChexSystems check to see if you have had issues with bank accounts elsewhere.

The banker will then present the account terms and fee schedule. Ask about any promotions — Wells Fargo sometimes offers cash bonuses for new accounts if you meet certain conditions, such as setting up direct deposit or making a minimum number of debit card transactions within 90 days. Once you sign the paperwork, your account opens immediately, and you can begin using it that day.

If you want a debit card, the banker can order one during your visit. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can also request a temporary card number for online purchases while you wait for the physical card to arrive.

Opening an account by phone

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same application process as online, asking for your personal information, ID details, and initial deposit method. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions or by scheduling a video call with a banker.

Once your account is open, the representative will provide your account number and routing number. You can use these immediately to set up direct deposit or transfer money from another bank account. Your debit card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Phone lines are typically open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Wait times vary, especially during business hours and at the start of the month.

What happens after your account opens

Wells Fargo will send you a welcome packet by mail containing your debit card, temporary checks (if you ordered them), and information about online banking. You can log in to your account online or through the Wells Fargo mobile app as soon as your account is active, usually within a few hours of opening.

Set up online banking by creating a username and password. You can then view your balance, transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and set up alerts for low balances or large transactions. If you want to transfer money from another bank, you will need to provide that bank's routing number and your account number there.

If your employer offers direct deposit, provide your Wells Fargo account number and routing number to your payroll department. Direct deposit typically begins within one to two pay periods. You can also set up automatic transfers from another account if you want to move money regularly into savings.

Understanding ChexSystems and account denials

Wells Fargo uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check whether you have had problems with accounts at other banks. ChexSystems records unpaid overdrafts, fraud disputes, and accounts closed due to misuse. If you have a negative record, Wells Fargo may deny your application or require you to pay outstanding balances before opening an account.

If your application is denied, Wells Fargo will send you a letter explaining the reason and providing information about how to contact ChexSystems to review your report. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems record by contacting the bureau directly. Some banks, including Wells Fargo, offer second-chance checking accounts for people with ChexSystems issues, though these accounts may have higher fees or lower limits on debit card transactions.

You can check your own ChexSystems report before applying by visiting chexsystems.com and requesting a free annual report. This allows you to correct any errors before submitting an application to Wells Fargo.

Account types and features

Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings account options. The most common is the Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account, which has no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or set up direct deposit of at least $250 per month. If you do not meet these conditions, the monthly fee is $10.

Wells Fargo also offers the Wells Fargo Way2Save Savings Account, which earns interest on your balance. The interest rate varies based on market conditions and your balance tier. Savings accounts typically have a monthly maintenance fee of $5, waived if you maintain a $300 minimum daily balance or link the account to a may have access to checking account.

Money market accounts combine features of checking and savings accounts, allowing you to write checks while earning interest. These accounts usually require a higher minimum balance — often $2,500 or more — and have higher monthly fees if you do not meet the minimum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?

Yes, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You will still need a government photo ID and an initial deposit. The application process is the same, though Wells Fargo may ask additional questions to verify your identity.

How long does it take to open a Wells Fargo account?

In person or by phone, the process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Online, it typically takes 5 to 10 minutes. Your account becomes active immediately, though your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number for transfers and direct deposit before your card arrives.

What if I do not have a minimum deposit right now?

Most Wells Fargo checking accounts require at least $25 to open. If you cannot deposit that amount immediately, you can deposit it later the same day or within a few days. Contact Wells Fargo to ask whether they will hold your account open while you arrange the deposit, as policies vary by branch.

Can I open multiple accounts at Wells Fargo?

Yes, you can open a checking account, savings account, and money market account all under the same Social Security number. Each account has its own number and can be managed separately online. However, Wells Fargo may limit the number of accounts you can open within a certain time period.

What should I do if my application is denied?

Wells Fargo will send you a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include a negative ChexSystems record, unpaid overdrafts at other banks, or fraud disputes. You can contact ChexSystems to review your report and dispute inaccuracies. You may also ask Wells Fargo whether they offer a second-chance checking account or whether you can reapply after paying outstanding balances.