Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address

Banks require two things before they will open an account: proof of who you are and proof of where you live. A government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID — satisfies the first requirement. For the second, bring a recent document showing your name and current address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

If you do not have a current address document, some banks will accept a second form of ID instead, or they may send a confirmation letter to your address and ask you to return it signed. Call the bank before you go in to ask what they accept, since policies vary by institution.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one government photo ID and one document showing your current address, both with your name on them.
  • Acceptable address documents include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or recent government mail.
  • If you lack an address document, ask the bank what alternative they will take — some accept a second ID or will mail you a verification letter.
  • Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, which the bank will use to check your banking history.
  • If you are opening an account for a minor, bring the child's birth certificate and your own ID as the parent or guardian.

Your Social Security number or tax ID

Banks run a background check called ChexSystems to see whether you have had problems with past accounts — overdrafts you did not pay back, fraud, or accounts closed by the bank. To do this, they need your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Bring the number itself or the document it appears on. If you do not have either, you can still open an account at some banks, but the process takes longer and you may face limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw. Ask the bank whether they offer accounts for people without a Social Security number or ITIN before you apply.

Initial deposit money

Most banks require you to deposit money when you open the account. The amount varies — some banks ask for $25, others for $100 or more. A few banks have no minimum deposit requirement. Bring cash, a check, or a debit card you can use to transfer funds from another account.

If you are opening an account online or by mail instead of in person, you can usually fund it after the account is set up, so you do not need to bring money to the bank. Check the bank's website or call to confirm whether an in-person opening requires a deposit on the spot.

Documents for a joint account or account for a minor

If you are opening a joint account with another adult, that person must come with you and bring their own government photo ID and proof of address. Both of you will sign the account agreement.

If you are opening an account for a child under 18, bring the child's birth certificate and your ID as the parent or legal guardian. Some banks require the child to be present; others do not. The bank will explain whether the account is a custodial account (you control it until the child turns 18) or a regular joint account (you both can withdraw money). Ask which type they offer before you open it.

What you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring pay stubs, tax returns, or proof of income unless you are opening a special account that requires a minimum balance or has income restrictions. A standard checking account does not ask for this information.

You do not need to bring a credit card or have good credit. Banks check your banking history through ChexSystems, not your credit score. If you have been denied a checking account in the past, ask the bank whether you can still open one — many will, especially if the past problem was years ago.

If you do not have a permanent address

If you are unhoused or do not have a lease, some banks will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (someone else's address where you receive mail). Call ahead and explain your situation — banks have different policies, and some are more flexible than others. Community banks and credit unions are often more willing to work with people without a traditional address than large national banks.

If a bank refuses to open an account for you, try a different bank or a credit union in your area. If you still cannot find one, ask a social services agency or homeless services organization whether they know of banks or credit unions that work with people in your situation.

What happens after you bring your documents

The bank will review your ID and address proof, run your ChexSystems check, and ask you to sign the account agreement. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. You will receive a debit card, either on the spot or by mail within 7 to 10 days. Your account number and routing number will be provided so you can set up direct deposit or transfers.

If the bank denies your account, they must tell you why. Common reasons are a ChexSystems flag (a past overdraft or fraud) or an address that cannot be verified. If you are denied, ask what the specific reason is and whether you can fix it or open an account at a different branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN or if the bank offers accounts for people without either. Some banks will open an account but may limit how much you can deposit or withdraw until you provide a number. Call the bank first to confirm they will work with you.

What if my ID is expired?

Most banks will accept an expired ID as long as it is a government-issued photo ID and you look like the photo. If the bank refuses, ask whether a second form of ID or a letter from a government agency would work instead.

Do I need to bring my debit card or checkbook to open the account?

No. The bank will issue these after the account is open. You do not need to bring anything related to the account itself — only your personal ID and proof of address.

Can someone else open a checking account for me?

No. You must be present and sign the account agreement yourself. The only exception is for minors, where a parent or guardian can open a custodial account on the child's behalf.

What if I lost my ID and do not have a replacement yet?

Most banks will not open an account without a government photo ID. If you are waiting for a replacement, ask the bank whether they will accept a temporary ID or a letter from the DMV confirming you applied for one. If not, wait until your new ID arrives.