Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online without visiting a branch
Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone. You'll provide personal information, verify your identity, and fund the account—all without stepping into a physical location. The whole process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, though some banks take longer to verify your identity.
Not every bank offers online account opening, and not every account type can be opened this way. Some credit unions still require you to visit in person or have a sponsor who is already a member. Certain specialty accounts—like those for minors, trusts, or business entities—may also require a branch visit or additional paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks and many credit unions let you open checking and savings accounts online using a computer or phone.
- You will need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to complete the process.
- Identity verification happens in real time through document upload or video call, and approval usually takes minutes to a few hours.
- You can fund your new account by linking an existing bank account, using a debit card, or waiting for a direct deposit.
- Some banks charge monthly fees; others waive fees if you meet balance or deposit requirements.
What you need to open an account online
Banks ask for the same core information whether you apply online or in person. Have your Social Security number, government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of current address ready before you start. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address.
Some banks also ask for your phone number, email address, and employment information. If you're opening an account at a credit union, check whether you need to be a member of a specific group—some credit unions restrict membership by employer, location, or family ties.
How identity verification works online
Banks verify your identity in one of two ways: document upload or video call. With document upload, you photograph your ID and proof of address using your phone or computer, and the bank's system checks them automatically. This usually takes seconds to a few minutes.
With video verification, you schedule a short call with a bank representative who watches you hold up your ID and asks a few questions. This method is more common at credit unions and some online banks. The call typically lasts 5 to 10 minutes and happens within hours of your request.
If the bank cannot verify your identity automatically, it may ask you to mail in copies of your documents or visit a branch. This adds 5 to 10 business days to the process.
Funding your account after opening it
You have three main ways to put money into your new account. The fastest is linking an existing bank account—you provide your routing and account number from another bank, and funds transfer within one to two business days. Some banks let you transfer money the same day if you link the account before a certain time (usually 2 or 3 p.m. Eastern).
You can also use a debit card to fund the account, though some banks charge a small fee for this. The funds usually appear within minutes to a few hours.
If you have no other bank account or debit card, you can wait for a direct deposit from your employer. This takes one to two pay cycles but costs nothing. Some banks will let you use the account before the deposit arrives, though you may have limits on how much you can spend.
Fees and account requirements
Many online banks charge no monthly fee at all. Traditional banks often charge $5 to $15 per month but waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or use their debit card a certain number of times per month.
Check the bank's fee schedule before you open the account. Look for charges on overdrafts, out-of-network ATM use, wire transfers, and account closure. Some banks refund overdraft fees if you bring your account positive within a day or two.
When you cannot open an account online
Credit unions are more likely to require an in-person visit or a sponsor. If you want to open an account at a credit union and do not meet the membership requirement, ask whether they have a community charter that lets anyone join, or whether you can become a member through a family connection.
Accounts for minors (usually under 18) often require a parent or guardian to visit a branch or sign documents in person, even if the bank offers online opening for adults. Business accounts, trust accounts, and accounts for non-U.S. residents typically cannot be opened online.
If your identity cannot be verified—because your ID is expired, your address cannot be confirmed, or your name does not match your Social Security record—the bank will ask you to visit a branch or mail in additional documents.
What happens after your account opens
Once approved, your account is active immediately. You can use your debit card (if the bank mailed one) or set up mobile payments right away. Your routing number and account number appear in the app or online portal so you can set up direct deposit or link the account to other services.
Some banks mail a debit card within 3 to 5 business days; others let you order one through the app or use a temporary digital card in Apple Pay or Google Pay while you wait. Check your account settings to see which option is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a bank account online?
The application itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. Identity verification happens in real time and usually takes seconds to a few minutes if you upload documents, or 5 to 10 minutes if you do a video call. Your account is typically active within hours, though some banks take up to one business day to complete the process.
Can I open a bank account online if I don't have a government ID?
Most banks require a government-issued ID for online opening. If you don't have one, you'll need to visit a branch in person. Some banks may accept alternative documents like a passport card or tribal ID, so call ahead to ask what they accept.
What if the bank rejects my online application?
Banks reject applications for reasons like identity verification failure, a ChexSystems report showing past account problems, or a mismatch between your name and Social Security number. Ask the bank why you were rejected. If it's a verification issue, you can usually reapply or visit a branch with documents in hand.
Do I need an existing bank account to open a new one online?
No. You can open an account without linking another bank account. You can fund it with a debit card, wait for direct deposit, or visit an ATM to deposit cash once the account is open. Some banks charge a small fee for debit card funding, so check before you choose that method.
Can I open a joint account online?
Some banks let both account holders complete the application online together, while others require one person to open the account and add the second person later. A few banks still require at least one joint owner to visit a branch. Check the bank's website or call to confirm their policy on joint accounts.