What you need before you walk in or go online

To open a checking account, you will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Some banks and credit unions also ask for a second form of ID or a utility bill dated within the last 60 days to confirm where you live. Bring these documents with you whether you open the account in person or prepare them for an online application.

If you do not have a Social Security number, some credit unions and a few banks will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call ahead to confirm the institution accepts ITIN before you visit or start an online application, because policies vary widely.

You will also need to decide how much money to deposit to open the account. Most banks and credit unions require a minimum opening deposit—often $25 to $100—though some have no minimum at all. Ask about this requirement when you call or before you submit an online application, so you know what to bring or transfer.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number to open a checking account at any bank or credit union.
  • Most institutions require a minimum opening deposit between $25 and $100, though some require nothing at all.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online—the fastest method depends on whether the bank or credit union has branches near you.
  • After you open the account, it takes one to five business days for the account to become fully active and for your debit card to arrive by mail.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts, some banks use ChexSystems to check your record, and you may be denied or asked to use a second-chance checking product instead.

Opening in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank or credit union where you want to open an account. Bring your photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number. A representative will sit with you, ask basic questions about how you plan to use the account, and show you the different checking account options they offer. They will explain monthly fees, overdraft policies, and whether the account comes with a debit card.

Once you choose an account type, the representative will fill out the application on their computer or on paper. You will sign the paperwork, make your opening deposit (by cash, check, or transfer), and receive a receipt. Your account is usually active the same day, though you may not be able to use your debit card until it arrives in the mail, which takes five to ten business days.

Opening online or by phone

Most banks and many credit unions let you open a checking account on their website or by calling their customer service number. Online, you will enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and proof of address, and choose your account type. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. By phone, a representative will walk you through the same steps and may ask additional questions to verify your identity.

After you submit an online application or complete a phone call, the bank or credit union will review your information. This review takes one to three business days. Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email or letter with your account number, and your debit card will arrive by mail within five to ten business days. You can usually start using your account online or through a mobile app before the debit card arrives.

What happens if you are denied or flagged

Some banks and credit unions use ChexSystems, a reporting system that tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, and closed accounts. If you have a history of these issues, the bank may deny your application or offer you a second-chance checking account instead. Second-chance accounts have higher fees and stricter overdraft rules, but they are designed for people rebuilding their banking history.

If you are denied, ask the bank or credit union why. They are required to tell you. If the reason is ChexSystems, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. If there are errors on the report, you can dispute them. Some banks do not use ChexSystems at all—online banks and some credit unions skip this check entirely, so you may have better luck there.

Choosing between a bank and a credit union

Banks are for-profit institutions with many branches and ATMs. Credit unions are member-owned nonprofits, usually smaller, with fewer locations but often lower fees. If you choose a bank, you can open an account at any branch nationwide. If you choose a credit union, you must first confirm you meet their membership requirements—some are open to anyone in a geographic area, while others require you to work for a specific employer or belong to a specific organization.

Both banks and credit unions are insured by the federal government up to $250,000 per account holder. This means if the institution fails, your money is protected. The difference is that banks are insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) and credit unions are insured by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration).

What to do after your account is open

Once your account is active, set up direct deposit if you receive a paycheck or government payment. This is the fastest and safest way to get money into your account—it usually takes one business day. You can also transfer money from another bank account, deposit checks through a mobile app, or deposit cash at an ATM or branch.

Review your account's overdraft policy. Some banks automatically cover overdrafts and charge a fee (usually $30 to $35 per overdraft). Others decline the transaction instead. You can usually choose which option you prefer. Set up account alerts through your bank's app or website so you know when your balance is low or when a large transaction occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if I do not have a permanent address?

Most banks and credit unions require proof of a current address. If you are unhoused or living temporarily, some institutions will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a letter from a social service agency confirming your residence. Call ahead to ask what they will accept before you visit.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. The bank or credit union then reviews your information, which takes one to three business days. Your account is usually active within one business day of approval, though your debit card arrives by mail in five to ten business days.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

Most banks and credit unions require a photo ID by law. If you do not have one, contact your state's DMV about getting a state ID card—you do not need a driver's license. Some credit unions may accept alternative documents like a passport or tribal ID. Call ahead to ask what they will accept.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance in my checking account?

It depends on the account and the institution. Some checking accounts have no minimum balance requirement. Others require you to keep $500 or more to avoid a monthly fee. Ask about this when you open the account so you know what to expect.

Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders will need to provide ID, proof of address, and a Social Security number. You can open a joint account in person or online. Both people can use the debit card and access the account, and both are responsible for overdrafts.