What You Need to Walk Into a Bank
You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your address. A driver's license covers both. If you don't have a license, bring a passport plus a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and current address. Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
That's the minimum. Many banks will ask follow-up questions about your income, employment, or how you plan to use the account — they're not trying to pry, they're checking their own compliance rules. Answer honestly. If you're a student with no income, say that. If you work part-time, say that. Banks have accounts designed for different situations.
Bring a small initial deposit if you can — $25 to $100 is typical, though some banks waive this. Check the bank's website before you go; they'll list what they need. If you're opening online instead of in person, you'll upload photos of your ID and address proof rather than showing originals.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID and proof of your address; a driver's license covers both, or bring a passport plus a utility bill or lease.
- Different banks charge different monthly fees, have different minimum balances, and offer different perks — compare a few before you choose.
- Online banks often have no monthly fees and no minimum balance, but you cannot deposit cash in person; traditional banks let you do both but may charge fees.
- Once your account opens, you'll get a debit card in 7 to 10 business days and online access immediately so you can start moving money right away.
- If you're under 18, some banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign; ask before you go in.
Traditional Banks vs. Online Banks vs. Credit Unions
A traditional bank has physical branches where you can walk in, deposit cash, talk to someone, and get a debit card on the spot or within days. The trade-off: many charge a monthly maintenance fee ($5 to $15) unless you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Some waive the fee for students or young adults under 25.
An online bank has no branches and no tellers, but also usually no monthly fees and no minimum balance. You manage everything through an app or website. Deposits work through mobile check deposit (you photograph a check and upload it) or transfers from another account. You cannot walk in and hand someone cash. Withdrawals happen at ATMs, often free if the bank is part of a large ATM network. Opening takes 10 to 15 minutes online.
A credit union is a nonprofit owned by its members. You join by opening an account, and membership usually costs nothing or a small one-time fee ($5 to $25). Credit unions often have lower fees and better customer service than banks, but fewer branches and ATMs unless they're part of a shared branching network. You need to live, work, or study in their service area to join.
For a first account, online banks are often the easiest — no fees, no minimums, and you can open in minutes from your phone. If you need to deposit cash regularly or want to talk to someone in person, a traditional bank or credit union works better, though you'll want to compare their fees first.
What Happens After You Open the Account
Once you're approved, you'll get a confirmation number or email immediately. Your account is live and you can start using it right away through the bank's app or website — you can transfer money in, set up bill pay, or link it to other accounts. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days by mail. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use on your phone while you wait.
When your debit card arrives, activate it by calling the number on the back or using the app. Then you can use it to withdraw cash at ATMs, pay for things in stores, or pay online. Your bank will send you a PIN (personal identification number) separately, usually by mail, which you'll need to withdraw cash at an ATM or use at some stores.
Set up online banking right away so you can check your balance, see transactions, and catch fraud early. Most banks let you set up alerts — notifications when your balance drops below a certain amount, when a large transaction hits, or when someone tries to log in from a new device. These are free and worth turning on.
Monthly Fees and How to Avoid Them
Many traditional banks charge a monthly maintenance fee ($5 to $15) unless you meet certain conditions. Common ways to waive the fee: keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit of your paycheck, make a certain number of debit card purchases per month, or maintain a linked savings account. Some banks waive fees for students or anyone under a certain age (often 25).
Read the fee schedule before you open the account — it's usually on the bank's website under "Checking Account" or "Account Fees." Look for the line that says "Monthly Maintenance Fee" and what it takes to waive it. If you're a student, ask whether they have a student account with no fees.
Online banks almost never charge monthly fees because they have no branches to run. Credit unions often have lower fees than traditional banks. If you're choosing between banks and fees are a factor, an online bank or credit union usually wins.
Overdraft Protection and Overdraft Fees
An overdraft happens when you spend more money than you have in your account. If you try to withdraw $50 and only have $30, the bank can either decline the transaction (free) or let it go through and charge you an overdraft fee ($25 to $35 per transaction). Some banks charge multiple overdraft fees in a single day if you make several purchases while overdrawn.
When you open your account, the bank will ask whether you want overdraft protection. If you say yes, they'll cover small overdrafts and charge you a fee. If you say no, transactions will simply be declined. For a first account, saying no is usually safer — you won't accidentally rack up fees you can't afford. You can change this setting anytime through your account settings or by calling the bank.
Some banks offer overdraft protection linked to a savings account or credit card instead of charging a fee — if you overdraw, they transfer money from savings or charge it to the card. Ask about this option when you open the account.
If You're Under 18
Most banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign your account if you're under 18. This means they'll be listed as an owner or authorized user, and they may be able to see your transactions and withdraw money. Some banks let you open a teen account without a co-signer, but these often have limits on how much you can withdraw or transfer per day.
Call the bank before you go in and ask what they need from you and your parent or guardian. Some banks let you open online with a co-signer; others require you both to come in person. If your parent or guardian can't come with you, ask whether they can sign documents separately or whether the bank will accept a notarized form.
Once you turn 18, you can usually convert the account to a standard adult account without closing it or moving your money. Ask the bank about this when you open it so you know what to expect.
Comparing Banks: What to Look At
| Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | What is it, and what waives it? (Direct deposit, minimum balance, age, student status) |
| Minimum Balance | Do you need to keep a certain amount in the account at all times? |
| ATM Access | How many ATMs does the bank have? Is there a surcharge if you use another bank's ATM? |
| Overdraft Fees | How much does the bank charge if you overdraw? Can you turn it off? |
| Debit Card | When does it arrive? Can you use a temporary digital card while you wait? |
| Customer Service | Can you call, chat, or email? Are they available nights and weekends? |
| Mobile App | Can you deposit checks, transfer money, and pay bills through the app? |
Most banks publish this information on their website. If you can't find it, call or visit a branch and ask. Spend 20 minutes comparing three banks — it's worth it because you'll use this account for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online, or do I have to go to a branch?
Most banks let you open online through their website or app. You'll upload photos of your ID and address proof, and the account opens in 10 to 15 minutes. Some banks still require you to come in person; check their website or call first. Online banks are almost always online-only.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept ITINs; others don't. Call ahead and ask. Credit unions are often more flexible about this than large banks.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Usually 7 to 10 business days by mail. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use on your phone immediately while you wait for the physical card. A few banks can print a card in-branch on the same day you open the account.
What's the difference between a debit card and a credit card?
A debit card pulls money directly from your checking account. A credit card borrows money from the card company, and you pay it back later. For a first account, you need a debit card. A credit card is separate and requires a credit application.
Can I open an account if I have a bad banking history?
Banks check a system called ChexSystems that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you're listed, some banks will still open an account for you, but others won't. Online banks and credit unions are often more flexible. Call a few banks and ask directly — they can tell you whether they'll work with you before you apply.