You can open most checking and savings accounts entirely online, from application through funding, without visiting a branch

The process takes about 15 minutes and requires a government ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit (usually $0 to $25). Banks verify your identity by checking your ID photo against your face, asking security questions based on your credit history, or both. Once approved—which happens instantly or within a few hours—you get account numbers and can start using the account the same day.

The main variation is whether you need to fund the account immediately or can wait. Some banks let you open the account first and deposit money later; others require a deposit before they activate the account. A few banks still require an in-person visit for certain account types, but most major banks and online-only banks do not.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (usually a recent utility bill or lease).
  • Banks verify your identity by comparing your ID photo to a live photo you take, or by asking questions only you should know the answers to based on your credit file.
  • Account approval happens instantly or within a few hours; you can deposit money and start using the account the same day.
  • Online banks typically have lower fees and higher interest rates than branch banks, but offer no in-person support if something goes wrong.
  • If you have been denied a bank account before, you can still open one at banks that do not use ChexSystems or at credit unions that use alternative verification.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before you open your browser: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Some banks will accept a bank statement or credit card statement instead.

You will also need a way to fund the account. Most banks let you link an existing bank account and transfer money, or provide a routing number so you can have your paycheck deposited directly. A few banks still require you to mail a check or visit a branch to make the first deposit, but this is rare among online banks.

Have your phone nearby. Banks use text messages or phone calls to verify your identity, and you may need to take a photo of yourself or your ID during the process.

The step-by-step process

Start on the bank's website or app. Click the button for "Open an Account," "get your free guide," or "Sign Up"—the exact wording varies. You will be asked to choose the account type (checking, savings, or both) and answer basic questions: your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email.

Next comes identity verification. The bank will ask you to upload a photo of your ID or take a live photo of yourself holding your ID. Some banks use facial recognition software to match your face to your ID photo; others have a person review it manually. This step usually takes a few seconds to a few minutes.

After that, the bank may ask security questions: "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these car loans did you take out?" These questions pull from your credit file and are designed to prove you are who you say you are. Answer honestly; if you have never had a car loan, select "None of the above."

Then you will review the account terms, agree to them, and set up login credentials (username and password, or a PIN). Some banks ask you to set up two-factor authentication at this point—a security step where you receive a code by text or email each time you log in from a new device.

Finally, you will fund the account. Enter the routing and account number of an existing bank account if you are transferring money, or provide your employer's information if you are setting up direct deposit. Some banks let you skip this step and fund the account later through the app.

How identity verification actually works

Banks use one of three methods: photo ID verification, knowledge-based verification, or both. Photo ID verification means you upload an image of your driver's license or passport, and the bank's software (or a person) confirms it matches your face and is not expired. This is the fastest method and usually takes seconds.

Knowledge-based verification asks questions only you should know the answer to—not your mother's maiden name, but specific details from your credit history. The bank pulls a soft inquiry on your credit file and asks which of four addresses you have lived at, or which of four loan amounts you borrowed. You do not need good credit to pass this; you just need to answer accurately about your own history.

If you fail identity verification, the bank will tell you why and may ask you to try again, upload a clearer photo, or visit a branch in person. If you have a common name or have moved frequently, verification may take longer. Some banks will approve you conditionally and ask for additional documents by mail within 10 days.

What happens after you are approved

Once approved, you will see your account number and routing number immediately in the app or on the website. You can use these to set up direct deposit with your employer, or to receive wire transfers or ACH transfers from other people. You can also link the account to payment apps like Venmo or PayPal.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still use the account online: transfer money, pay bills through the bank's bill pay system, or receive deposits. Some banks offer a temporary digital card number you can use immediately for online purchases.

If you need to deposit cash or checks before your card arrives, you have a few options. Some banks let you deposit checks by taking a photo through the app. For cash, you will need to wait for your debit card, visit an ATM at a partner bank, or go to a branch if the bank has physical locations.

Online banks versus branch banks

Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Discover) have no physical branches. They offer lower fees, higher interest rates on savings, and faster account opening. The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash in person or speak to someone face-to-face if there is a problem. Most online banks offer phone support during business hours and email support 24/7.

Branch banks (like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Chase) have physical locations where you can deposit cash, get a cashier's check, or talk to someone in person. They usually charge monthly maintenance fees unless you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Their interest rates on savings are typically lower than online banks.

Credit unions are member-owned and often have lower fees and higher savings rates than branch banks, though not always as high as online banks. Many credit unions let you open an account online, though some still require an in-person visit. Credit unions also tend to be more flexible about approving people who have been denied by banks before.

If you have been denied before

Banks use a system called ChexSystems to track people who have had problems with bank accounts: overdrafts they did not pay back, accounts closed due to fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. If you are on the ChexSystems list, most banks will deny you. The record stays for five years, but you can request a copy and dispute inaccuracies.

If you have been denied, try banks that do not use ChexSystems. Some online banks and most credit unions use alternative verification methods or do not check ChexSystems at all. You can also ask the bank that denied you which system they used and request your report to see what is listed.

Another option is a second-chance checking account, designed for people with banking history problems. These accounts usually have higher fees and lower limits on deposits and transfers, but they report to ChexSystems, which means good behavior can help you move to a regular account after 6 to 12 months.

Common problems and how to fix them

If your identity verification fails, the bank will usually tell you why: the photo was blurry, the ID was expired, or the information did not match their records. Take a clearer photo in good lighting, make sure your ID is current, and try again. If it fails a second time, call the bank's customer service line and ask if you can verify in person at a branch or by mail.

If your account is approved but you cannot log in, check that you entered your username and password correctly. If you forgot your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. If you set up two-factor authentication and are not receiving the code, check that your phone number and email are correct in your account settings, or call customer service to have them reset it.

If your initial deposit did not go through, check the status in your account. If you linked an existing bank account, the transfer may take 1 to 3 business days. If you set up direct deposit, the first paycheck may take one or two pay periods to arrive. If neither is working, contact the bank's customer service and ask them to investigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account online if I do not have a government ID?

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV—it costs $10 to $30 and takes a few weeks. Some credit unions may accept a passport, tribal ID, or military ID instead. Call ahead before applying.

How long does it take to get approved?

Most banks approve you instantly or within a few hours. A few banks take up to one business day. If the bank needs to verify additional information or review your application manually, it may take 2 to 5 business days. You will receive an email or text message when you are approved.

Do I have to make a deposit when I open the account?

It depends on the bank. Most online banks let you open the account with $0 and deposit money later. Some branch banks require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100. Check the bank's website before you start; it will say "No minimum opening deposit" or list the amount required.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You will need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call the bank before applying and ask whether they accept ITINs or have an account type for non-citizens.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No. The person whose name is on the account must be the one to open it and verify their identity. If you want to manage money for a minor, you can open a custodial account in their name, but you will need their Social Security number and birth certificate. If you want to manage money for an adult, they can add you as an authorized user or give you power of attorney after the account is open.