Yes, you can open a bank account if you have an ID and proof of address
Most banks will open an account for you if you bring a government-issued ID and a document showing your current address. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The address proof is usually a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement in your name. You do not need perfect credit, a job, or a minimum deposit to start — though some banks do charge a monthly fee if you don't keep a balance.
The real barriers are narrower than most people think. Banks cannot refuse you based on credit score alone. They can refuse if you have an active fraud case against you, if you owe money to another bank, or if you appear on ChexSystems (a banking history report that tracks bounced checks and closed accounts). Even then, options exist outside traditional banks.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government ID and proof of your current address to open a bank account at most institutions.
- Banks check ChexSystems, a database of banking history, but a bad report does not lock you out of all banks — credit unions and second-chance accounts exist.
- If you have no ID, you can get a state ID card from your DMV without a driver's license, and it costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state.
- Some banks require a minimum opening deposit (often $25 to $100), but many online banks and credit unions have no minimum.
- If a bank denies you, ask why — the reason determines whether you can go elsewhere or need a second-chance account.
What banks actually check before opening your account
When you walk in or apply online, the bank runs your name through ChexSystems and sometimes Early Warning Services. These are not credit bureaus. They track whether you have bounced checks, had accounts closed for cause, or owed money to other banks. A single bad mark does not automatically disqualify you, but multiple recent incidents do.
Banks also verify your ID and address in real time. They use databases like LexisNexis to confirm the ID is real and matches your name. If your address cannot be verified — because you just moved, live in a rural area, or the utility bill is in someone else's name — you may need to bring additional documents. A lease, mortgage statement, or government mail can work.
The bank will also ask about your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can still open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), though fewer banks accept it. Call ahead to confirm before you go in.
If you don't have an ID yet
You can get a state ID card from your Department of Motor Vehicles without a driver's license. Bring your birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security card (or ITIN letter). The cost ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state. Processing takes one to three weeks in most places, though some states offer same-day service for a higher fee.
If you cannot get to the DMV, some banks will accept a passport, tribal ID, or military ID instead. A few will even open an account with a consular ID (issued by a foreign government's embassy). Call the bank's customer service line before you visit to confirm what they accept.
If you have no documents at all, you have a harder path but not an impossible one. Some credit unions and community banks will work with you if you bring a witness who already has an account there. This is rare and varies by institution, so you will need to call and ask.
What happens if a bank says no
Banks must tell you why they denied you. If it is because of ChexSystems, ask for a copy of your report — you have the right to see it under federal law. You can dispute errors directly with ChexSystems at chexsystems.com. If the report is accurate, you have two paths: wait (most negative marks fall off after five years), or open a second-chance account.
Second-chance accounts are designed for people with banking history problems. Banks like Chime, LendingClub, and GoBank offer them, as do many credit unions and community banks. They usually have higher fees and lower limits on transfers, but they build your history and can lead to a regular account later. Some require a small deposit ($100 to $500) that stays in the account as collateral.
If the bank denied you for a different reason — bad ID, unverifiable address, or fraud concerns — the fix depends on the reason. A bad ID means getting a real one. An unverifiable address means bringing a different document. Fraud concerns are harder to resolve quickly and may require you to contact law enforcement or the bank's fraud department.
Minimum deposits and monthly fees
Many banks require a minimum opening deposit, typically $25 to $100. Some waive it if you set up direct deposit. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have no minimum deposit and no monthly fees. Traditional banks like Chase and Bank of America charge $12 to $15 per month unless you keep a balance (usually $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit.
Credit unions often have lower fees and no minimum balance. You do have to be a member, which sometimes means living in a certain area or working for a specific employer, but many are open to anyone. The National Credit Union Administration has a tool to find credit unions near you.
If you cannot afford an opening deposit, start with an online bank or credit union. If you cannot avoid monthly fees, ask whether direct deposit waives them — if you have any income at all, even unemployment or disability payments, direct deposit usually qualifies.
Opening an account online versus in person
Online banks are faster (usually 24 to 48 hours) and have lower fees, but they require you to verify your identity digitally. This means uploading a photo of your ID and sometimes taking a selfie. If your ID is damaged, expired, or hard to read, the process can stall. You also cannot deposit cash online — you will need a linked account at another bank or an ATM that accepts deposits.
Opening in person at a branch takes longer (you need an appointment at many banks now) but is more flexible. The banker can work with you if your documents are unusual, and you can deposit cash immediately. If you have any doubt about your documents or situation, go in person.
What to bring and what to expect
Bring your government ID, proof of address, and Social Security card or ITIN letter. Have your phone number and email ready. The banker will ask why you want an account (the answer does not matter — they are required to ask), verify your information, and explain the account type and fees. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 20 minutes online.
You will get a debit card in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use immediately while you wait. Your account number and routing number appear in your online banking portal right away, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account if I'm homeless?
Yes. You can use a shelter address, a friend's address, or a mail forwarding service address as your proof of address. Some banks also accept a letter from a shelter or social services agency confirming you live there. Call ahead to confirm the bank accepts your specific address type.
What if I have a criminal record?
A criminal record does not disqualify you from opening a bank account. Banks check ChexSystems and fraud databases, not criminal records. You can open an account as long as you have valid ID and proof of address.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. You must be present and sign the paperwork yourself. A parent or guardian can open a joint account with you if you are a minor, but you still have to be there. Online, you must verify your own identity.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, 10 to 20 minutes to complete the application, then 24 to 48 hours for approval. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number immediately.
What if my address keeps changing?
Update your address in your online banking portal or by calling the bank. You do not need to close and reopen the account. The bank will send statements and cards to your new address once you update it.