Documents and ID you'll bring to the bank

Most banks want two forms of identification before they'll open an account. One must be a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be another photo ID, or a document that shows your name and address, like a utility bill, lease, or insurance card.

Some banks accept a Social Security number instead of an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) if you don't have one yet. Ask the bank directly whether they'll work with an ITIN before you go in, because policies vary. If you're opening an account in person, bring originals — banks won't accept photocopies of your ID.

You'll also need to know your Social Security number or ITIN. The bank uses this to run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check looks for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or closed accounts with negative balances at other banks.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID and one additional form of ID showing your name and address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The bank will check your banking history through ChexSystems, which can block you if you owe money from a previous account.
  • You'll need a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.
  • Online banks typically require less documentation than brick-and-mortar branches and often have no minimum deposit.
  • If ChexSystems blocks you, you can still open an account at a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems or at a credit union.

Minimum deposit amounts vary by bank and account type

Some banks require you to deposit money before they'll open the account. Others don't. The amount depends on which bank you choose and which type of checking account you pick.

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically ask for $25 to $100 to open a standard checking account. Some of their premium accounts require $500 or more. Regional banks and credit unions often have lower minimums — sometimes $50 or less. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Chime frequently have no minimum deposit at all.

The minimum deposit is separate from money you'll need to keep in the account later. Some accounts require you to maintain a balance to avoid monthly fees, but many don't. Read the account terms before you open it so you know what happens if your balance drops below a certain level.

What happens if ChexSystems blocks you

ChexSystems is a database that tracks banking problems. If you left an account with a negative balance, bounced checks you didn't pay back, or committed fraud, that information stays in ChexSystems for five years. When you try to open a new account, the bank checks this database. If something shows up, the bank can refuse to open an account for you.

You have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you. Contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or visit chexsystems.com to request your report. If the information is wrong, you can dispute it in writing.

If ChexSystems blocks you, you still have options. Some banks don't use ChexSystems at all — they run their own background checks or none at all. Credit unions are often more flexible than banks. Second-chance checking accounts, offered by some banks specifically for people with banking history problems, may also accept you. These accounts usually come with higher fees and stricter rules, but they're a real path forward.

Opening an account in person versus online

In-person accounts at a bank branch require you to show up with your ID and make your deposit. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll walk out with a debit card or a temporary card number, and checks can arrive within a week or two.

Online accounts skip the branch visit. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, verify your identity through a video call or security questions, and fund the account by linking another bank account or using a debit card. Online accounts typically open within one to three business days. You won't get a physical debit card immediately — most online banks mail it to you, which takes five to ten business days.

Online banks generally ask for less documentation and have lower minimums. In-person banks give you immediate access to a debit card and the option to speak with someone if something goes wrong. Choose based on what matters more to you: speed and lower barriers, or immediate card access and face-to-face help.

Information you'll need to provide

Beyond your ID, the bank will ask for your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. They'll ask whether you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. They'll ask about your employment and income, though this is often optional for checking accounts — it matters more for credit products like loans.

You'll also choose how you want to receive statements: by mail, email, or online only. Most banks default to online statements now and charge a fee if you want paper. You'll set up online banking access and choose a username and password during the account opening process.

If you're opening a joint account with someone else, both people need to be present (in person) or both need to verify their identity (online). The bank will ask who owns the money and who can withdraw it — these can be different things, and the bank needs to know.

Debit card and checks: timing and costs

If you open an account in person, you may leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use immediately. A permanent card usually arrives within five to ten business days. Online banks mail debit cards, which takes longer — typically seven to fourteen business days.

Checks cost money. If you order them from the bank, expect to pay $15 to $30 per box of 100. You can order cheaper checks from third-party printers like Deluxe or Costco, which often cost $5 to $10 per box. Many people don't order checks at all anymore — most payments happen by debit card, transfer, or bill pay through the bank's website.

Some banks include a starter set of checks free with a new account. Ask whether yours does before you pay for your first order.

Special situations: non-citizens, minors, and no fixed address

Non-citizens can open checking accounts. You'll need an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Some banks ask for a passport or consular ID in addition to your ITIN. Call ahead to confirm the bank will work with an ITIN — not all do.

Minors (usually under 18) can open accounts, but an adult must be a joint owner or co-signer. The adult's name appears on the account and they have full access to the money. Some banks offer teen accounts with spending limits and parental controls. Credit unions are often more flexible with minors than large banks.

If you don't have a permanent address, you can still open an account. Use a mailing address where you can receive mail — a shelter, a friend's address, a PO box, or a mail forwarding service. The bank needs somewhere to send your debit card and statements. Some banks are stricter about address verification than others; online banks are often more flexible.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others require you to call ahead and confirm. Credit unions are often more willing to work with ITINs than national banks.

What if I've been denied a checking account before?

Check your ChexSystems report to see why. If the reason is old or incorrect, you can dispute it. If it's accurate, look for a second-chance checking account or a credit union that doesn't use ChexSystems. Some online banks also have more lenient policies.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance after I open the account?

It depends on the account. Some accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance drops below a certain amount — often $500 to $1,500. Others have no balance requirement at all. Read the fee schedule before you open the account so you know what to expect.

How long does it take to open a checking account?

In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, one to three business days from start to finish. You can usually start using the account immediately after approval, though your debit card will arrive by mail a week or two later.

What if the bank asks about my income and I'm unemployed?

Income questions are usually optional for checking accounts. You can leave the field blank or write zero. Banks care more about income for credit products like loans. If the bank makes it mandatory, try a different bank or a credit union.