What you need to open a bank account
To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Most banks will also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $300 or more. A few banks have no minimum deposit requirement.
You can open an account in person at a branch, online through the bank's website, or by phone. In-person is fastest if you have questions; online takes a few minutes but you'll need to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading documents. Phone applications are less common but some banks still offer them.
If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can use a passport, state ID, or driver's license. If you don't have any of these, some banks will accept alternative documents like a utility bill or lease agreement, though this varies by bank and may require you to visit a branch in person.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open most bank accounts.
- Initial deposit requirements range from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.
- Online accounts open fastest but require identity verification through video or document upload; in-person applications take longer but let you ask questions on the spot.
- If you have no ID, some banks accept utility bills or lease agreements as proof of identity, though you may need to visit a branch.
- After opening, you'll receive a debit card and online login within one to two weeks.
Opening an account online
Online banks and online-only accounts at traditional banks are the fastest route. You visit the bank's website, enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID and proof of address, and submit. The bank then sends you a link to verify your identity through video—you'll show your ID to a camera and answer security questions. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
After verification, your account opens immediately and you can start using it the same day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in your phone's wallet while you wait for the physical card.
The documents you upload must be clear and readable. For ID, a photo of both sides of your driver's license or state ID works. For proof of address, use a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and current address. Avoid blurry photos or documents older than 90 days.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of the bank you want to join, bring your ID and proof of address, and ask to open an account. A banker will sit with you, verify your information, and have you sign paperwork. The whole process takes 20 to 30 minutes. Your account opens that day.
In-person opening is useful if you have questions about account types, fees, or features—the banker can explain them and help you choose. It's also the best option if you don't have standard documents or if your ID is expired. Branches have more flexibility to work with you on what counts as proof of identity.
You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use immediately online. Your permanent card arrives by mail within a week. Some branches can also set up direct deposit or transfers on the spot if you have your employer's or another bank's routing number.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, you'll receive online banking login credentials by email or text. Write down your username and password and store them somewhere safe. Log in to set up a PIN for ATM withdrawals and to link external accounts if you want to transfer money in or out.
Your debit card arrives by mail. When it arrives, call the number on the back or use the bank's app to activate it before you use it. Some banks activate it automatically; others require you to call or confirm online first.
Set up direct deposit if your employer or a government program sends you money. You'll need your account number and the bank's routing number, both of which appear on checks or in your online banking portal. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to start.
Review your account's fees and features. Most checking accounts charge a monthly fee ($5 to $15) unless you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Some banks waive the fee if you keep a certain amount in the account; others waive it if you receive a paycheck deposited each month. Read the fee schedule so you know what to expect.
Types of accounts and which to choose
Most people open a checking account, which lets you write checks, use a debit card, and pay bills online. Checking accounts have no withdrawal limits and are meant for money you use regularly. Some checking accounts pay a tiny amount of interest; most pay nothing.
A savings account is separate and meant to hold money you're not spending. Savings accounts pay interest—the rate varies by bank and changes monthly, but currently ranges from 0.01% to 5% depending on the bank. You can usually withdraw from savings, but some accounts limit you to six withdrawals per month (this rule varies by bank).
Many banks let you open both at the same time. A checking account handles your daily spending; a savings account holds an emergency fund or money toward a goal. You can transfer between them instantly through online banking.
Some banks offer money market accounts, which combine features of checking and savings—they pay interest and let you write checks or use a debit card, but usually require a higher minimum balance ($2,500 to $10,000). These are less common for everyday banking.
If you have no Social Security number
If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, most banks will open an account for you using your ITIN. Bring your ITIN documentation (IRS letter or tax return) along with your ID and proof of address.
Some banks require an ITIN; others accept it but ask additional questions about your immigration status or employment. Call the bank ahead of time to confirm they accept ITINs, because policies vary. If one bank declines, try another—many regional and community banks are more flexible than large national chains.
A few banks may ask for a consulate ID or passport if you don't have a U.S. state ID. Bring whatever government-issued photo ID you have and be prepared to explain your situation to the banker.
Common reasons accounts are denied or delayed
Banks check your history through ChexSystems, a database of banking problems. If you owe money to a previous bank, have unpaid overdrafts, or closed an account with a negative balance, you may be denied. If you're denied, the bank must tell you why and give you contact information for ChexSystems so you can dispute the information if it's wrong.
Identity verification can fail if your photo doesn't match your ID clearly, if your address proof is too old, or if the documents are blurry. If this happens, the bank will ask you to resubmit or visit a branch in person. Keep trying—most issues can be resolved by uploading clearer photos or bringing originals to a branch.
Large initial deposits (over $10,000) trigger a federal report called a Currency Transaction Report. This is normal and not a problem; the bank is required to file it. It does not delay your account opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN. Most banks accept ITINs in place of a Social Security number. Bring your ITIN documentation (IRS letter or tax return), photo ID, and proof of address. Some banks may ask additional questions, so call ahead to confirm they accept ITINs before you visit or apply online.
How much money do I have to put in when I open an account?
It depends on the bank and account type. Some banks require $0; others require $25, $100, or $300. Online banks often have lower minimums than branches. Check the bank's website or call to ask about the minimum deposit before you apply.
What if I don't have a current utility bill for proof of address?
A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement with your name and address works instead. If you have none of these, visit a branch in person—bankers have more flexibility and can accept other documents like a letter from your landlord or a government notice with your address.
How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?
Usually 5 to 10 business days by mail. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use in your phone's wallet or online while you wait for the physical card. A few banks can issue a card at the branch if you open in person.
What if the bank says I'm in ChexSystems and won't open an account?
Ask the bank for the reason and contact information for ChexSystems. You can dispute incorrect information on your ChexSystems report for free. If the information is correct, try a different bank—some are more lenient than others, and some specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history problems.