Yes, you can open most checking accounts entirely online, but the process and what you need varies by bank
Most large banks and many smaller ones let you open a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, a current address, and an initial deposit (which may be as small as $0 or as much as $500, depending on the bank). The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and your account opens the same day or within 24 hours.
The catch: some banks still require you to verify your identity in person or by video call, especially if you're a new customer or if their system flags your application. A few banks, particularly smaller regional ones and credit unions, don't offer remote account opening at all. If you don't have a physical address or a traditional ID, your options narrow significantly.
Key Takeaways
- Most national banks and online-only banks let you open a checking account entirely online using your ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
- The account typically opens within 24 hours, and you can start using it immediately through mobile banking or a debit card.
- Some banks require video verification or in-person ID verification, which adds a step but still avoids a branch visit for most people.
- Credit unions and smaller regional banks are more likely to require an in-person visit, so call ahead before you start the process.
- If you don't have a traditional ID or address, online banks and some credit unions have workarounds, but you'll need to contact them directly to find out what they accept.
What you need to have ready before you start
Gather these items before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number or ITIN, your current mailing address, and a phone number where the bank can reach you. You'll also need a way to make the initial deposit—most banks let you link an existing bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or mail a check.
If you're opening an account at a bank where you already have a relationship (you have a savings account there, for example), the process is usually faster and may not require as much verification. If you're a completely new customer, expect more questions about your employment, income, and the source of your initial deposit. This is standard anti-money-laundering screening, not a judgment on you.
How the online account opening process actually works
Start on the bank's website or app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer." You'll fill in your personal information, choose the type of checking account you want, and answer questions about your employment and income. The bank will ask for your ID—some let you upload a photo, others use a third-party verification service that checks your ID against government databases.
After you submit your information, the bank reviews it. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours. Some banks approve you instantly; others send you an email or text saying they need more information or want to verify your identity by video call. If they ask for a video call, you'll schedule a time to talk to someone who will confirm your ID matches your face and ask a few questions about the account.
Once approved, your account number and routing number appear in your app or online portal. You can set up direct deposit, link external accounts, and order a debit card—though the card usually arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Many banks let you use a temporary digital card in Apple Pay or Google Pay while you wait for the physical card.
Banks that let you open accounts completely online with no video call
Most national banks and all major online-only banks allow fully remote account opening: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, Capital One 360, Ally Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank all let you open a checking account on your phone without talking to anyone. The process is the same—upload your ID, confirm your information, make a deposit—and you're done.
Smaller online banks and fintech companies like Chime, Revolut, and SoFi also open accounts entirely online. The trade-off is that some of these have fewer physical locations or ATMs, so check whether their ATM network works for you before you commit. Regional banks vary widely; some have full online opening, others require a video call, and some still want you in a branch. Call your bank's customer service line before you start if you're not sure.
When banks require a video call or in-person visit
Banks use video verification when they can't confirm your identity through their automated system—this happens more often if you're new to banking, if your ID is expired, or if your address doesn't match their records. A video call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You'll show your ID to the camera, answer a few security questions, and the agent will confirm everything matches. After that, your account opens the same day.
In-person visits are less common but still happen at some credit unions, community banks, and smaller regional institutions. If your bank requires this, you'll need to visit a branch with your ID and initial deposit. Call ahead to confirm the branch is open and that they have what you need—some branches can't open accounts and will direct you to one that can.
What to do if you don't have a traditional ID or address
If you don't have a driver's license or passport, some banks accept a state ID card, tribal ID, or military ID. If you don't have any government-issued photo ID, your options are limited but not zero. Some online banks and credit unions will work with you if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and can provide alternative proof of identity, like a utility bill or lease agreement.
If you're unhoused or don't have a permanent address, some banks let you use a shelter address, a PO box, or a friend's address as your mailing address. Call the bank directly and ask what they accept—don't guess. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible on this than national banks, but it varies by institution.
How long it takes from start to usable account
If everything goes smoothly and the bank approves you instantly, you can have a working checking account within 30 minutes. In practice, most accounts open within 24 hours. If the bank needs to verify your identity by video call, add another day or two depending on when you schedule the call.
Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can use a temporary digital card in your phone's wallet, or you can transfer money to an existing account you own. Some banks let you pick up a temporary card at a branch if you need cash before the physical card arrives.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is live as soon as the bank approves you. You can log into your online banking portal or app, set up bill pay, link external accounts, and start receiving direct deposits. The bank will mail you a debit card, checks (if you ordered them), and any other materials within 7 to 14 business days.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer can start depositing your paycheck within one or two pay cycles. If you're transferring money from another account, most transfers take 1 to 3 business days. If you need cash immediately, you can withdraw from an ATM using your temporary digital card, or visit a branch if the bank has one near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online if I've been denied before?
Yes, but you may face more scrutiny. Banks use ChexSystems, a checking account history database, to screen applicants. If you were denied for fraud or unpaid overdrafts, some banks will still open an account for you—they just may require a video call or in-person verification. Call the bank's customer service line and ask about their policy for applicants with ChexSystems records before you apply.
Do I need an initial deposit to open an account online?
Most banks require an initial deposit, but the amount varies. Some require $0, others require $25 to $500. Check the bank's website before you start—it will tell you the minimum. You can usually make the deposit by linking an existing bank account and transferring money, which takes 1 to 3 business days.
What if the bank rejects my application?
Banks reject applications for a few reasons: ChexSystems records, mismatched information (your ID doesn't match your address), or suspicious activity patterns. If you're rejected, ask the bank why—they're required to tell you. Some banks have a second-chance checking product for people with banking history issues. If one bank says no, try another; different banks have different standards.
Can I open an account for someone else online?
No. The person whose name is on the account must open it themselves using their own ID and Social Security number. Parents can open accounts for minors, but the process is different and usually requires a visit to a branch or a video call. Check your bank's website for "teen account" or "minor account" options.
Is it safe to upload my ID online?
Yes, if you're uploading it to the bank's official website or app. Banks use encryption to protect your information. Do not email your ID to anyone or upload it to a third-party website unless the bank's official process directs you to do so. If you're unsure whether a link is legitimate, go to the bank's website directly and start the process from there.