What you need to bring and where to go
You can open a checking account at a bank, credit union, or online-only bank. Each requires the same basic documents: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID if your first one doesn't have your address on it.
Walk into any branch of a bank or credit union during business hours, or visit their website to open an account online. Online banks typically complete the process entirely through their app or website—you'll photograph your ID and answer questions about yourself. In-person accounts usually take 15 to 30 minutes. Online accounts can be ready the same day, though some banks take one to three business days to verify your information before you can use the account.
You do not need an existing bank account to open a checking account. You do not need a minimum deposit to start, though some banks require one to avoid monthly fees—these minimums range from $0 to $500 depending on the bank. If you cannot meet a minimum, look for banks that waive it or offer accounts specifically for people new to banking.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to open an account in person or online.
- Banks, credit unions, and online-only banks all offer checking accounts, and the process takes 15 minutes to three business days depending on where you go.
- Some banks require a minimum deposit to avoid monthly fees, but many do not—compare what different banks charge before you choose.
- Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card and checks, and you can start using your account to deposit money and pay bills.
What happens after you hand over your documents
The bank or credit union will run a background check using ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. This check looks for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other problems at previous banks. A clean history takes seconds. If there is a problem on your record, the bank will tell you—you can then dispute it with ChexSystems or look for a bank that does not use ChexSystems (some credit unions and online banks skip this step).
The bank will also verify your identity by checking your Social Security number against government records. This is automatic and usually instant. If there is a mismatch—your name spelled differently, an old address still on file—the bank will ask you to clarify. Bring extra documents if you have recently changed your name or address.
Once verification is complete, you choose a PIN for your debit card and set up online banking access. The bank will give you a temporary debit card on the spot (in-person) or mail one to you (online). Checks arrive by mail within one to two weeks. Your account is usable immediately, even if your physical cards have not arrived yet—you can use your online banking login to transfer money or set up bill pay.
Differences between banks, credit unions, and online banks
| Type | Where to open | Monthly fees | Minimum deposit | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional bank | In person or online | $5–$15 (often waived if you meet conditions) | $0–$500 | 15–30 minutes in person; 1–3 days online |
| Credit union | In person or online | $0–$10 (usually lower than banks) | $0–$100 | 15–30 minutes in person; 1–3 days online |
| Online-only bank | Online only | $0 (no monthly fees) | $0 | Same day to 3 days |
Traditional banks have physical locations, so you can deposit cash and speak to someone in person. They charge monthly maintenance fees unless you meet conditions like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Credit unions are member-owned and typically charge lower fees than banks. You must be a member to open an account, but membership is often free and based on where you live or work.
Online-only banks have no physical branches and no monthly fees. They make money through interest on loans, not account fees. The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash in person—you must use mobile check deposit (photograph a check with your phone) or transfer money from another account. If you do not write many checks or need to deposit cash regularly, an online bank is usually cheaper.
What to do if the bank says no
Banks can refuse to open an account if ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. If this happens, ask the bank for the specific reason in writing. You can then contact ChexSystems to dispute the information—you have the right to see what is on your report and correct errors.
If the problem is real (you did overdraft and did not pay), some banks offer second-chance checking accounts. These accounts have higher fees and lower limits, but they let you rebuild your banking history. Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks about past problems. Online banks vary—some use ChexSystems, some do not.
If you cannot open a traditional checking account, a prepaid debit card is an alternative. You load money onto the card yourself, and there is no credit check or ChexSystems review. The downside is that prepaid cards charge per transaction and per month, which adds up if you use them frequently. A checking account, even a second-chance one, is usually cheaper in the long run.
How to use your account once it is open
Your debit card works immediately at ATMs and stores. You can withdraw cash, pay for purchases, and check your balance. Your checks arrive by mail—write them the same way you would any check, and they clear within one to three business days depending on the bank.
Set up online banking through the bank's website or app. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and see your transaction history. Most banks let you set up automatic transfers—for example, moving money to savings every payday, or paying your rent on the same day each month. Direct deposit (having your paycheck sent straight to your account) usually takes one to two pay periods to set up after you give your employer your account number and routing number.
Watch your balance to avoid overdrafts. If you spend more than you have, the bank will either decline the transaction or charge you an overdraft fee (usually $25–$35 per overdraft). Many banks let you turn off overdraft protection so transactions simply decline instead of charging a fee. You can change this setting in your online banking account.
Fees to watch for
Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 and are charged just for having the account open. Many banks waive this fee if you keep a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or use your debit card a certain number of times per month. Read the fee schedule before you open the account so you know what you are agreeing to.
Overdraft fees are charged when you spend more than your balance. ATM fees are charged when you use an ATM that is not owned by your bank—usually $2–$3 per withdrawal. Foreign transaction fees apply if you use your debit card outside the United States. Wire transfer fees (for sending money to another bank) range from $15–$30. Most of these fees can be avoided by choosing the right bank and using its services carefully.
Online banks and credit unions typically charge fewer fees than traditional banks. If you are on a tight budget, compare the fee schedules of three banks before you choose. The bank with the lowest monthly fee and no minimum deposit is usually the best choice for someone just starting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Most banks require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some credit unions and online banks will open accounts with an ITIN instead. Call ahead to ask before you go in person, because policies vary by location and by bank.
What if I do not have proof of my current address?
Bring any document with your name and address on it dated within the last 60 days—a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government letter. If you have none of these, some banks will accept a second form of ID plus a signed statement that you live at that address. Ask the bank what they accept before you come in.
How long does it take to receive my debit card and checks?
Debit cards arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Checks take 1 to 2 weeks. Some banks offer rush delivery for an extra fee. You can use your account online and through ATMs before your physical cards arrive.
Can I open a checking account for someone else?
No. The person whose name is on the account must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number. Parents can open accounts for minors, but the minor's name must be on the account. The rules vary by bank, so ask about accounts for people under 18.
What is the difference between a checking account and a savings account?
A checking account is for money you use regularly—it comes with a debit card and checks. A savings account is for money you want to keep and earn interest on. Most people have both. You can open them at the same time at the same bank.