Documents and ID you'll need to bring
Most banks require a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you don't have one, some banks will accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a utility bill or lease, though this varies by institution and may take longer to process.
You'll also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement dated within the last 60 days works at most banks. A few will accept mail from government agencies or insurance companies instead.
Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank will use this to run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which track your banking history. If you've had accounts closed for overdrafts or fraud, the bank will see that.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN at nearly every bank.
- If you've been denied before or have a ChexSystems record, some banks specialize in second-chance accounts and won't turn you down for past banking problems.
- Online banks typically require less documentation than brick-and-mortar branches, though they still need your ID and SSN.
- Opening an account takes 15 minutes to an hour in person, or 10 to 20 minutes online, and you can usually start using it the same day.
- Some banks charge monthly fees; others waive them if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
What happens if you don't have a photo ID
Not having a driver's license or passport doesn't automatically disqualify you. Bring whatever government-issued ID you have — a state ID card, tribal ID, military ID, or passport card all work. If you have none of these, call the bank ahead of time and ask what combination of documents they'll accept instead.
Some banks will take a birth certificate plus two pieces of mail showing your name and address. Others require a notarized affidavit stating your identity. A few will turn you away entirely. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large national banks on this point, so if one bank says no, try a local credit union or a second-chance bank.
Opening an account in person versus online
In-person accounts at a branch take 15 minutes to an hour. You hand over your documents, the teller verifies them, you sign paperwork, and you walk out with a debit card (or one arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 days). You can deposit cash immediately and start using the account that day.
Online accounts take 10 to 20 minutes. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, answer security questions, and create a login. The bank verifies your documents within a few hours to a few days. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use the account for transfers and bill pay before the card shows up.
Online banks typically ask for less paperwork and don't require you to visit a location. However, you can't deposit cash directly — you'll need to use ATMs, transfers from another account, or mobile check deposit. If you need to deposit cash regularly, a brick-and-mortar bank or credit union is more practical.
Minimum balance and monthly fees
Many banks charge a monthly maintenance fee of $5 to $15, though this varies widely. Some waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or maintain a certain number of debit card transactions per month.
Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no monthly fees. If you're on a tight budget, compare fee structures before opening. Ask the bank directly what it takes to avoid the monthly charge — don't assume the advertised minimum balance is the only way.
If you've been denied before or have banking problems
Banks check ChexSystems, a database that records closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you've had accounts closed for negative reasons, a mainstream bank may deny you. This doesn't mean you can't open an account anywhere.
Second-chance banks specialize in accounts for people with ChexSystems records. They charge higher fees (sometimes $10 to $25 per month) and may have lower spending limits, but they don't turn you down for past problems. Examples include Chime, LendingClub, and some regional banks that market themselves as "fresh start" accounts. Credit unions also tend to be more lenient than national chains.
Before you open anywhere, you can request your own ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. This shows you what the bank will see and gives you a chance to dispute errors before you apply.
What happens after you open the account
Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can set up direct deposit, mobile check deposit, and bill pay immediately through the bank's website or app, even before the card arrives. Most banks let you transfer money from another account on the same day you open.
You'll receive a checkbook in the mail if you ordered one (some people don't need checks anymore, so you can skip this). Your account number and routing number appear in your online banking portal right away — you'll need these for direct deposit or wire transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You'll need to bring the same documents as anyone else — ID, proof of address, and your ITIN. Some banks are more familiar with ITINs than others, so call ahead if you're unsure.
Do I need to deposit money when I open the account?
No. Most banks let you open with zero dollars and deposit later. A few require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100, but this is less common. Check the bank's website or call to confirm before you go in.
What if I don't have proof of address?
Call the bank and ask what documents they'll accept. Some take a lease agreement, utility bill, or mortgage statement. Others accept mail from government agencies, insurance companies, or employers. If you're homeless or living with someone else, ask whether a letter from a shelter or a signed statement from your host counts.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee, or you can pick up a temporary card at the branch on the day you open. Online banks sometimes let you use a virtual card number immediately while you wait for the physical card.
Can I open multiple checking accounts at the same bank?
Yes. Many people open a second account for savings, bills, or a specific purpose. There's no legal limit, though some banks charge a monthly fee for each account. Check whether the bank charges per account or per customer before you open a second one.