The documents and information banks require

To open a checking account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $300 or more, and a few have no minimum. A few banks waive the ID requirement if you open online and link an existing bank account, but this is uncommon.

The specific documents a bank wants depend on whether you walk in or open online. In person, bring your ID and a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement for your address. Online, you'll upload photos of these documents or answer questions the bank uses to verify your identity through a third-party service. Some banks also pull your ChexSystems report—a banking history database—to check whether you've had problems with previous accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN; most banks also require an opening deposit between $0 and $500.
  • Online accounts often process faster than in-person ones and may have lower minimum deposits, but you'll need to upload photos of your documents.
  • Banks check ChexSystems, a database of banking history, so a closed account or unpaid fees at another bank can block you from opening a new one.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, some credit unions and online banks offer alternatives like a state ID card, passport, or tribal ID.
  • The entire process usually takes 10 to 30 minutes in person or 24 to 48 hours online, depending on how quickly the bank verifies your identity.

What counts as proof of address

Banks accept a narrow list of documents showing your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement all work. The document must show your name, the address, and a date within the last 60 days—older statements are rejected. A driver's license with your current address printed on it counts as both ID and proof of address.

Documents that do not work include mail from the government (tax returns, benefit statements), insurance papers, or letters from employers. If you've recently moved and your ID still shows an old address, bring the ID plus a utility bill or lease in your new name. If you live with family and have no bill in your name, ask whether the person whose name is on the bill can bring it with you, or ask the bank whether they accept a notarized letter from your landlord.

Opening online versus in person

Online accounts are faster to set up but require you to photograph your documents and pass an automated identity check. You upload a photo of your ID and proof of address, answer security questions, and the bank's system verifies your information against databases. This usually takes a few minutes, though the bank may flag your application for manual review if something doesn't match—a name spelled differently on two documents, for example. Manual review can add 24 to 48 hours.

In-person accounts take 10 to 30 minutes but are more straightforward: you hand over your documents, the banker checks them, and you sign paperwork. There's no waiting for automated verification. However, you have to travel to a branch during business hours, and some banks have fewer branches than others. Online banks have no branches at all, so if you ever need to deposit cash or speak to someone face-to-face, you'll need a different solution.

Minimum deposits and monthly fees

Opening deposits range from $0 to $500 depending on the bank. Large national banks often require $100 to $300. Online banks and credit unions frequently have $0 minimums or ask for as little as $25. Some banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit—your paycheck or benefits going straight into the account—which also qualifies you for higher interest rates on savings features.

Monthly maintenance fees vary widely. Many banks charge $10 to $15 per month but waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), receive direct deposit, or maintain a certain number of debit card transactions. Some banks charge no monthly fee at all. Before opening, check the bank's fee schedule on their website or ask the banker directly. A low opening deposit means nothing if you'll pay $15 every month you can't meet their balance requirement.

What to do if you have ChexSystems problems

ChexSystems is a database that tracks closed accounts, unpaid overdrafts, and fraud reports. If a previous bank reported you for unpaid fees or closed your account due to suspicious activity, ChexSystems will flag you when you try to open a new account. Some banks automatically reject applicants with ChexSystems records; others review the details and may still open an account.

You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. If there's an error—a fee you already paid, for example—you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems. If the record is accurate, look for banks that don't use ChexSystems or that specialize in second-chance accounts. Credit unions, some online banks, and smaller regional banks are more likely to work with you. You may pay higher fees or have lower limits on debit card transactions, but you can still open an account.

If you don't have a photo ID

A driver's license is the most common ID, but banks accept other government-issued photo IDs: a state ID card, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you don't have any of these, you have limited options. Some banks will open an account if you bring two forms of non-photo ID (like a Social Security card and birth certificate) plus proof of address, though this is rare and depends on the bank's policy.

Credit unions are often more flexible than banks. Call ahead and ask whether they can open an account without a photo ID. Online banks typically require a photo ID or won't open the account at all, because they can't verify your identity in person. If you need a photo ID, your state's DMV can issue a state ID card (not a driver's license) for a small fee, usually $15 to $50. Some states offer free or reduced-cost IDs for people with low income.

How long the process takes

In-person accounts are ready to use immediately or within a few hours. You walk out with a debit card (or it arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 days), and you can start using your account number right away. Online accounts take longer: the bank's verification system processes your documents, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours. If the system flags your application for manual review, add another 1 to 3 business days. Once approved, your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 14 days, though most banks let you use your account number before the card arrives.

Some online banks offer expedited debit cards for an extra fee, usually $10 to $20, which arrive in 2 to 3 business days. If you need to deposit cash immediately, this matters—you can't deposit cash online, so you'll need a physical card or access to a branch. Plan ahead if you're opening an account to receive a refund or payment on a specific date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. You can get an ITIN from the IRS by filing a tax return or submitting Form W-7. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others require additional documentation. Call the bank before you visit to confirm they accept ITINs.

What if I'm under 18?

Most banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign and appear in person. Some banks offer teen accounts with limited features and lower balances. A few credit unions allow minors to open accounts independently. Age requirements vary, so contact the bank directly.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You only need to know your Social Security number. The bank will verify it against government records. Bringing the physical card is optional and doesn't speed up the process.

What happens if my address changes after I open the account?

Contact your bank and update your address. You can usually do this online, by phone, or in person. The bank will send statements and cards to your new address once it's updated.

Can I open multiple checking accounts at the same bank?

Yes, most banks allow it. You might want separate accounts for different purposes—one for bills, one for savings. Each account needs its own debit card and account number, but you only need to provide your ID and address once.