What you need to bring and where to go
To open a bank account, you walk into a bank branch or credit union, or you complete an online form on a bank's website. Either way, you will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent mail from a government agency works for the address proof. Some banks also ask for your Social Security number or tax ID.
You do not need an existing account, a minimum deposit, or a job. You do need to be at least 18 years old, or have a parent or guardian open the account with you if you are younger. If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks and credit unions will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 15 minutes online. You will leave with a debit card, account number, and routing number. Online banks usually mail the debit card to you within 5 to 10 business days, but you can use the account immediately through their app or website.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID and proof of your address (utility bill, lease, or recent mail) to open an account in person or online.
- You do not need a minimum deposit, existing account, or job to open a bank account.
- Online banks are faster to set up and often have no monthly fees, but in-person banks let you deposit cash immediately at a branch.
- Your account comes with a routing number and account number you will need to receive direct deposits or set up bill payments.
- If you have had banking problems in the past, ask the bank whether they use ChexSystems or Early Warning Services before you apply.
In-person versus online banks
An in-person bank has physical branches where you can deposit cash, withdraw money, and talk to a teller. A credit union is a type of in-person bank owned by its members rather than shareholders. Online banks have no branches—you deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone, and you withdraw money at ATMs or by transferring to another account.
In-person banks usually charge a monthly fee ($10 to $15) unless you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Online banks rarely charge monthly fees. In-person banks offer more ways to deposit cash immediately. Online banks offer faster account setup and lower fees, but you cannot hand cash to a teller.
Credit unions often have lower fees and better customer service than large banks, but you have to be a member of the group they serve—a workplace, union, school, or geographic area. You join by opening an account, which usually costs $5 to $25 as a one-time membership fee.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, the bank gives you a routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and an account number (a code that identifies your specific account). You need both to receive direct deposits from an employer or government program, and to set up automatic bill payments.
The bank also issues you a debit card, which you can use to buy things or withdraw cash from ATMs. Some banks charge a fee if you use an ATM that is not theirs; others reimburse those fees. Ask before you open the account if ATM fees matter to you.
You will receive statements—either by mail or email, depending on what you choose—that show every deposit, withdrawal, and fee. Keep these for your records. If you notice a transaction you did not make, report it to the bank within 60 days to dispute it.
Banking history checks and second-chance accounts
Most banks check your banking history using ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, two companies that track closed accounts, unpaid overdrafts, and fraud. If you have unpaid fees or closed an account with a negative balance, the bank may deny you or require you to pay the old debt first.
If you have been denied before, ask the bank which system they use and request your report. You can dispute errors on your own. Some banks and credit unions offer second-chance accounts specifically for people with banking problems—they may have higher fees or lower limits, but they let you rebuild your history.
A few banks do not use ChexSystems or Early Warning at all. If you have been denied elsewhere, call ahead and ask whether the bank you want to use checks your history. Some community banks and credit unions skip these checks entirely.
Minimum deposits and account types
Most banks let you open a checking account with zero dollars. Some require $25 to $100 as an opening deposit, but this is rare. A few banks offer accounts with no minimum deposit and no monthly fee—these are usually online banks or credit unions.
You will choose between a checking account (for everyday spending and bill payments) and a savings account (for money you want to keep separate and earn interest on). Many people open both at the same bank. A checking account usually earns no interest; a savings account earns a small percentage, though the rate changes with the market.
Some banks offer money market accounts, which earn higher interest than savings accounts but require a larger minimum balance. Ask what each account type costs and what interest rate it pays before you decide.
Documents you may need later
Once your account is open, the bank will ask you to sign a deposit agreement that explains the rules—what fees you pay, what happens if you overdraw, and how disputes are handled. Read this before you sign. You will also get a Truth in Savings disclosure that shows the interest rate and annual percentage yield (APY) on savings or money market accounts.
Keep your account number, routing number, and the bank's customer service phone number in a safe place. You will need them to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money. If your debit card is lost or stolen, call the bank immediately—you are protected from fraud if you report it within two business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), most banks will open an account with it instead. Some banks also open accounts for people without either, though this is less common. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what ID they accept.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will need some form of government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have one, you can get a state ID card from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your birth certificate, proof of address, and a completed application. The cost is usually $10 to $30.
How long does it take to use my account after I open it?
If you open an account in person at a branch, you can use it immediately—you leave with a debit card or account number. If you open online, you can use the account the same day through the bank's app or website, but the physical debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Deposits take 1 to 3 business days to clear.
What if I get denied when I try to open an account?
Ask the bank why. If they used ChexSystems or Early Warning, you can request your report and dispute errors. If you owe money from a closed account, you may need to pay it before opening a new one. Try a credit union or a bank that offers second-chance accounts—they are more likely to work with you.
Do I need to keep a minimum balance to avoid fees?
It depends on the bank. Some charge a monthly fee unless you keep $500 or $1,000 in the account. Others charge no fee at all. Online banks and credit unions usually have no minimum balance requirement. Ask before you open the account so you know what to expect.