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

Every bank requires a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. Without it, the bank cannot open an account. They also need to verify where you live right now, which means a recent document showing your name and current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days usually works.

Some banks will accept a second form of ID instead of a separate address document — for example, a passport with a visa showing your current country of residence. Ask the bank ahead of time what they accept, because requirements vary slightly by institution and by state.

If you do not have a current address document, bring what you have and ask whether the bank will contact you by phone or email to confirm your address instead. Many will, though the process takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring one government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID, or tribal ID is required by every bank.
  • Bring proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement.
  • Have your Social Security number ready; banks use it to check your banking history and run a background check.
  • Bring a small initial deposit if the bank requires one, though many checking accounts have no minimum deposit.
  • If you have no address document, call ahead to ask whether the bank will verify your address by phone instead.

Your Social Security number and banking history

Banks will ask for your Social Security number to check your banking history and run a background check. This is standard practice and required by federal law. Have it memorized or written down before you arrive.

The bank will look up your history in ChexSystems, a database that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud reports. If you have been reported for bouncing checks or fraud at another bank, the new bank will see it. Some banks will still open an account for you; others will not. If you have a negative history, call the bank before you go in and ask whether they work with people in your situation.

If you have never had a checking account, you will have no history to check, and that is fine — the bank will simply open your account.

Initial deposit amount and payment method

Check the bank's website or call ahead to find out whether they require a minimum opening deposit. Many banks have no minimum at all. Others require $25 to $100. A few require more.

Bring cash, a check, or a debit card to make the deposit. If you bring a check, it will take a few business days to clear. If you bring cash or use a debit card, the money is available immediately. Ask the bank representative which method is fastest if you need the account open and funded on the same day.

What to bring if you do not have a standard ID

If you do not have a driver's license or passport, a state ID card works just as well and is easier to get than a passport. You can obtain one at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, a tribal ID card is also accepted by banks.

If you have none of these, some banks will accept a passport card (the wallet-sized version), a military ID, or a permanent resident card. Call the bank first to confirm they will accept what you have. If they will not, you will need to get a state ID card before opening an account.

Undocumented immigrants and people without a Social Security number can still open checking accounts at some banks and credit unions. These institutions use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call ahead to find banks in your area that offer ITIN accounts.

Documents to bring if you are opening an account for a business

Business checking accounts require more paperwork than personal accounts. Bring your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number, your business license or articles of incorporation, and a government ID in your name. Some banks also ask for a recent business tax return or a letter from the IRS showing your EIN.

If you are opening the account as a sole proprietor using your Social Security number, bring the same documents as for a personal account plus proof that you operate a business — a business license, a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate, or a recent business tax return.

What to bring if someone else is signing on the account with you

If you are opening a joint account or adding an authorized user, that person must come with you and bring their own government-issued photo ID and proof of address. The bank will verify both people's identities and run background checks on both.

If the other person cannot come in person, some banks allow you to add them later online or by mail. Ask the bank whether they offer this option before you open the account.

Bring copies of documents, not originals

The bank will look at your ID and address document but will not keep them. You can bring originals or copies — either works. If you are worried about identity theft, bring copies instead. The bank will verify the information and return everything to you before you leave.

Keep your original documents with you. Do not leave them at the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks and credit unions accept ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Call ahead to find institutions in your area that offer this option. You will still need a government-issued photo ID and proof of address.

What if my address document is older than 60 days?

Call the bank before you go in and ask whether they will accept it. Many banks will if it is the most recent document you have. If they will not, bring what you have and ask whether they can verify your address by phone or email instead. Some will; others require a current document.

Do I need to bring a checkbook to open an account?

No. The bank will order checks for you after the account is open, or you can order them yourself online. You do not need checks to use a checking account — you can pay bills online, use a debit card, or transfer money electronically.

What if I do not have a minimum deposit?

Many banks have no minimum opening deposit. If the bank you choose requires one and you do not have it, ask whether you can deposit money later that day or the next day. Some banks will hold the account open while you gather the deposit.

Can I open an account online instead of going to the bank?

Some banks and credit unions let you open a checking account entirely online. You will upload photos of your ID and address document, and the bank verifies them electronically. You still need to make an initial deposit, which you can do by transferring money from another account or by mailing a check.